If you are looking for a dish that combines bright, fresh flavors with effortless preparation, I cannot recommend this Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe enough. It’s a vibrant, cheesy, and savory meal that feels like a special treat but comes together so simply. With tender chicken breasts coated in aromatic basil pesto, juicy burst-of-summer cherry tomatoes, and a golden layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan, this recipe is the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe never fails to impress while keeping the process delightfully straightforward.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. The simplicity of each component allows the natural freshness of pesto and the creaminess of cheese to shine, making this dish truly irresistible.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish offering lean, juicy protein that soaks in all the flavors beautifully.
- ½ cup basil pesto: Provides a herbaceous, garlicky punch that transforms ordinary chicken into something extraordinary; store-bought works well, but homemade is divine.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds bursts of sweet acidity and a vibrant pop of color that lightens the dish wonderfully.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey, comforting blanket that ties all the ingredients together.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a nutty, salty finish that complements the mozzarella and pesto perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning to enhance all the natural ingredients without overpowering them.
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional): Adds an extra layer of freshness and a pretty pop of green when serving.
How to Make Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking, then arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer. Season them generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This foundational seasoning is key to enhancing the basil pesto without overshadowing it.
Step 2: Add the Pesto and Tomatoes
Spread approximately 2 tablespoons of basil pesto evenly over the top of each chicken breast, making sure they’re well covered to infuse maximum flavor. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes all around the chicken in the dish. The tomatoes will roast alongside the chicken and add juicy sweetness that perfectly balances the pesto’s herbal notes.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
Pop the baking dish into the oven, and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re aiming for the chicken to be nearly cooked through, with an internal temperature reaching about 160°F. This step allows the chicken to absorb the pesto flavor while the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
Step 4: Add the Cheese and Finish Baking
Remove the dish from the oven, and generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over each chicken breast. Return the dish to the oven for another 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden, and the chicken is fully cooked at 165°F. This cheesy finish is what elevates this recipe to irresistibly delicious territory.
How to Serve Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A few fresh basil leaves scattered on top not only brighten the dish visually but also add an extra pop of herbal aroma that complements the baked pesto chicken beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs exceptionally well with simple sides like fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or al dente pasta tossed lightly with olive oil and garlic. Roasted or steamed vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans also make wonderful additions, balancing the richness with fresh, crisp textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a delightful twist, serve the chicken over a bed of creamy polenta or cauliflower rice to keep it light. You can also turn it into a hearty salad by slicing the chicken and serving alongside mixed greens, toasted pine nuts, and a fresh lemon vinaigrette for a complete meal bursting with flavor and texture contrasts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This chicken freezes beautifully! Wrap each portion tightly or freeze in a suitable container to enjoy later. When properly sealed, it will keep well for up to 2 months, so you can savor this easy baked pesto chicken whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven to maintain moisture. Cover the chicken with foil if baking to prevent the cheese from drying out, and heat until warmed through thoroughly.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option for juicier meat, but remember they may need a few extra minutes of cooking time to reach the proper internal temperature.
Is it better to use homemade or store-bought pesto for this recipe?
Both work wonderfully. Homemade pesto adds a fresh, personalized touch, but a high-quality store-bought pesto saves time and still delivers excellent flavor.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes! You can omit the mozzarella and Parmesan or use dairy-free cheese alternatives to make this dish suitable for those avoiding dairy.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest and most accurate way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken that is still juicy and tender.
What variations can I try with this Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe?
Try switching up the pesto with sun-dried tomato or spinach pesto for a different flavor profile. You can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat or swap cherry tomatoes for roasted bell peppers or artichokes to mix things up.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe has truly become one of my go-to meals when I want quick, delicious, and comforting food without fuss. Its fresh flavors and simple steps make it accessible for cooks of all levels, and the cheesy, tomato-topped finish always feels like a celebration. I encourage you to give it a try soon—you might just find it becoming your new favorite too!
Print
Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts coated with flavorful basil pesto, topped with juicy cherry tomatoes and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Baked to perfection in the oven, it’s a simple yet delicious Italian-American main dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal. Garnished with fresh basil, this dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pesto
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetables and Cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the chicken: Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer in the baking dish and season both sides with salt and black pepper for balanced flavor.
- Apply pesto: Spread 2 tablespoons of basil pesto evenly over the tops of each chicken breast to infuse rich herby flavor.
- Add cherry tomatoes: Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken breasts in the dish to add juicy bursts of freshness during baking.
- Initial bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the chicken is almost cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of about 160°F, ensuring tenderness and juiciness.
- Add cheeses: Remove the dish from the oven and evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over each chicken breast.
- Final bake: Return the dish to the oven for another 5–7 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Garnish and serve: Optionally garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot, pairing well with your choice of sides like rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Try using sun-dried tomato pesto or spinach pesto for a flavorful variation.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts; adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure doneness.
