If you are searching for a dish that balances simplicity, elegance, and bursting flavors, this Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is a true winner. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts generously coated in vibrant basil pesto, surrounded by juicy cherry tomatoes, and topped with a dreamy layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This recipe brings together fresh, wholesome ingredients to create a meal that feels both comforting and sophisticated without any fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties, it’s a delicious way to enjoy Italian-American flavors in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and accessible, yet each plays a crucial role in building the vibrant flavors and textures of this dish. From the aromatic basil pesto to the creamy cheeses and sweet tomatoes, every element complements the chicken perfectly.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose even-sized breasts to ensure uniform cooking and juiciness.
- ½ cup basil pesto: Whether store-bought or homemade, pesto adds that unmistakable herbaceous punch.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Their natural sweetness and juiciness burst in the oven to balance the savory chicken.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create that irresistible cheesy topping.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty complexity to the melted cheese layer.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional): A pop of green freshness and a visual delight on the finished dish.
How to Make Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking, then place your chicken breasts in a single even layer. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This basic seasoning is key to enhancing the natural chicken flavor before adding the pesto topping.
Step 2: Spread the Pesto
Take about 2 tablespoons of basil pesto per chicken breast and spread it evenly over the tops. This layer is going to infuse the meat with that vibrant, herbaceous flavor that makes this recipe sing. Using pesto instead of a marinade saves time and adds a fresh, aromatic punch.
Step 3: Add Cherry Tomatoes
Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the baking dish. As they bake, these tomatoes will soften and release their juices, creating a sweet and tangy backdrop that perfectly complements the pesto’s richness.
Step 4: Initial Bake
Bake the chicken uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of about 160°F. At this point, the chicken will be mostly cooked but still juicy enough to handle the next step without drying out. The tomatoes will start to soften and release their luscious flavors.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle shredded mozzarella followed by grated Parmesan over each piece of chicken. Return the dish to the oven for another 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cheeses melt into a bubbly, golden crust and the chicken reaches a safe 165°F internal temperature. This step creates that irresistible cheesy layer that elevates the whole dish.
How to Serve Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing with fresh basil leaves is a simple way to add a burst of color and a fresh herbal aroma. It makes the presentation pop, making your dish look as good as it tastes. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also enhance the shine and add a subtle richness.
Side Dishes
This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Creamy risotto or herbed pasta are classic Italian companions. For a lighter option, try roasted seasonal vegetables or a crisp arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Each side dish brings its own texture and flavor that complements the cheesy, herbaceous chicken perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family dinner, serve the chicken whole with sides arranged artfully around the plate. For a party or casual gathering, slice the baked chicken into strips and serve it over a bed of toasted crostini or polenta squares for bite-sized delights. This recipe’s versatility invites you to get creative and tailor it to your occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover chicken and tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners when you’re short on time but don’t want to compromise on flavor.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe longer, freezing is a great option. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing much of its delicious texture and flavor.
Reheating
For reheating, gently warm the chicken in an oven preheated to 350°F until heated through to preserve the cheesy topping and prevent the chicken from drying out. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power but cover loosely to keep moisture locked in.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work beautifully in this Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe. They tend to be juicier, so adjust the baking time accordingly by baking a bit longer to ensure they’re fully cooked and tender.
Is store-bought pesto good enough?
Store-bought pesto is a great shortcut and still delicious, especially if you pick a high-quality brand. However, homemade pesto will add a fresher, more vibrant flavor if you have the time and ingredients on hand.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can assemble the chicken with pesto and tomatoes in the baking dish up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. When ready, just bake as directed. This saves valuable time for busy days or entertaining.
What if I want to make it dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply skip the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese toppings or use dairy-free cheese alternatives. The pesto and tomatoes still bring plenty of flavor to the dish.
What sides go best with baked pesto chicken?
Starches like rice, pasta, or creamy polenta are fantastic, but so are fresh salads and roasted vegetables. The choice depends on how hearty or light you want your meal to be, and this recipe is flexible enough to pair well with any of these options.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes for busy weeknights and casual dinners alike. It’s a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. The balance of tender chicken, aromatic pesto, sweet tomatoes, and melty cheese hits every note of comfort and satisfaction. Give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite meal!
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 is a flavorful and simple dinner option featuring tender chicken breasts topped with fragrant basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it combines classic Italian-American flavors in a healthy, gluten-free dish that pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Pesto and Toppings
- ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish and arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer. Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor before cooking.
- Apply pesto and add tomatoes: Spread about 2 tablespoons of basil pesto evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the baking dish, which will soften and add juiciness during baking.
- Bake chicken until almost cooked: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the chicken is nearly cooked through, aiming for an internal temperature of approximately 160°F (71°C).
- Add cheeses and finish baking: Remove the dish from the oven. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over each chicken breast. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and serve: Optionally garnish the baked chicken with fresh basil leaves for added color and aroma. Serve hot, pairing the dish with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Try using sun-dried tomato pesto or spinach pesto to create exciting flavor variations.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs may take slightly longer.
