Name: Baked Pesto Chicken: A Simple, Flavor-Packed Family Meal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (Can also use chicken tenders or thighs); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Feel free to swap in sea salt); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Omit for a milder flavor); 1/2 cup Basil Pesto (Homemade or store-bought); 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Alternative: sliced fresh mozzarella)

As the aroma of basil fills my kitchen, I can’t help but feel transported to a sun-soaked Italian villa. Today, I’m sharing my beloved recipe for Easy Baked Pesto Chicken—a dish that captures the essence of home-cooked comfort with only three simple ingredients. In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a gluten-free, low-carb meal that’s juicy, tender, and topped with gooey mozzarella—a weeknight triumph that’s perfect for busy families. Not only will this stress-free recipe impress your loved ones, but it’s also an easy way to embrace healthy eating without sacrificing flavor. Are you ready to savor a delightful twist on dinner that will keep everyone coming back for seconds? Let’s dive in!

Why is Baked Pesto Chicken a weeknight must?

Simplicity at Its Best: With just three ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights without overwhelming your schedule.

Rich, Flavorful Experience: The aromatic basil pesto combined with gooey mozzarella creates a mouthwatering flavor that your family will love.

Low-Carb Delight: This gluten-free, low-carb recipe caters to various dietary needs, making it a hit with health-conscious eaters.

Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with steamed veggies or quinoa for a complete meal, or experiment with different pestos and veggies to keep things exciting!

Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress, turning even the most mundane dinner into a culinary experience. Enjoy the ease and delight of home-cooked goodness!

Baked Pesto Chicken Ingredients

Discover the simple components behind this delicious dish!

For the Chicken

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The main protein that keeps the dish light; chicken tenders or thighs can also work with slight adjustments.
Kosher Salt – Enhances the chicken’s natural flavors; feel free to swap in sea salt to your taste.
Black Pepper – Adds a subtle warmth; omit for a milder flavor profile.

For the Pesto

Basil Pesto – Provides that vibrant, herby essence and moisture; choose between homemade or store-bought as per your preference.

For the Topping

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully for a creamy finish; alternative: sliced fresh mozzarella can be a lovely touch for presentation.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Baked Pesto Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking. This step is crucial for achieving the tender, juicy texture of your Baked Pesto Chicken. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and equipment, including a 9×12 inch baking dish and cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and slice them lengthwise into three strips each. This will help the chicken cook evenly and absorb the flavor of the basil pesto better. Season the strips with kosher salt and black pepper, making sure to coat them well for maximum flavor before adding them to the baking dish.

Step 3: Set Up the Baking Dish
Lightly spray your prepared baking dish with cooking spray, which will prevent the chicken from sticking. Spread a generous ¼ cup of basil pesto on the bottom of the dish, creating a flavorful base that infuses the chicken as it bakes. Make sure the pesto covers the bottom evenly for the best results.

Step 4: Add the Chicken to the Dish
Carefully place your seasoned chicken strips in a single layer over the pesto in the dish. This arrangement allows the chicken to cook evenly and soak up the delicious pesto flavor. Once they are all in place, drizzle the remaining ¼ cup of pesto over the top of the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated for that rich, herby taste.

Step 5: Cover and Bake the Chicken
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to help retain moisture during cooking. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. Keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks, looking for it to become tender and cooked through, reaching a perfect internal temperature.

Step 6: Add the Cheese and Finish Baking
After the initial baking time, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you desire a golden-brown top, consider broiling for another 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Easy Baked Pesto Chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is beautifully melted, remove it from the oven. Let it cool slightly, then serve hot, drizzling any excess juices from the dish over the chicken. This adds an extra layer of flavor, making each bite irresistible. Enjoy your delightful family meal!

What to Serve with Easy Baked Pesto Chicken

Elevate your meal with delightful sides that perfectly complement the flavors of this juicy, cheesy chicken dish.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery, these potatoes provide a comforting texture that pairs beautifully with the herby chicken.
Steamed Broccoli: Fresh and vibrant, this vegetable adds a crispy crunch, balancing the richness of the pesto and mozzarella.
Garlic Bread: Toasted to perfection, the buttery and garlicky goodness of this bread is perfect for soaking up the yummy juices.
Caprese Salad: The refreshing combination of tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil mirrors the pesto flavors while adding a light, crunchy element.
Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty, healthy base that absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, adding an earthiness to the plate.
Lemon-Infused Couscous: Fluffy and bright, this dish complements the richness of the chicken and adds a zesty flair to your meal.
Roasted Asparagus: With its tender yet crisp texture, asparagus brings a pop of green to your plate, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.
Chardonnay: A glass of this white wine pairs wonderfully, echoing the herb and cheese notes while adding a crisp finish to each sip.

Baked Pesto Chicken Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Baked Pesto Chicken with these delightful twists that will make your meal even more enjoyable!

Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: Swap basil pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto for a rich, tangy flavor that’s bursting with Mediterranean vibes.
Vegetable Boost: Add colorful veggies like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or sliced zucchini alongside the chicken for a nutritious one-dish meal. The extra pops of color and flavor make every bite exciting!
Grain Variations: Serve the chicken over grains like quinoa, couscous, or orzo to transform the dish into a filling meal that’s hearty and satisfying. This way, you add both texture and a comforting base to soak up those delicious juices.
Herby Lemon Zing: Sprinkle fresh lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice over the finished dish to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing twist. It’s like adding sunshine to your plate!
Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different cheese options, such as feta or goat cheese, for a tangy contrast to the pesto. Each cheese brings its own unique spin, transforming the dish while keeping it creamy.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes on top before baking to introduce a spicy element that enhances the overall flavor profile. For heat lovers, this brings a fun and fiery touch!
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate shredded almonds or pine nuts on top of the cheese before baking for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken. This added layer of texture will make your dish truly unforgettable.

For even more inspiration, consider trying different variations of simple homemade pesto or pairing this dish with a refreshing side salad to complete your meal!

How to Store and Freeze Baked Pesto Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Baked Pesto Chicken in a covered container for up to 5 days to keep it fresh and flavorful. Always allow it to cool completely before placing it in the fridge.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the chicken in a labeled ziplock bag for up to 4-5 months. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, drizzling with any reserved juices to maintain moisture.

Airtight Storage: Use airtight containers to store leftovers to ensure the beautiful flavors of your Baked Pesto Chicken are preserved during storage.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Baked Pesto Chicken strips are perfect for busy weeknights when you want to save time without compromising flavor! You can marinate the chicken in the pesto mixture up to 24 hours before baking, allowing it to soak up the delicious herby flavors. Additionally, you can assemble the entire dish (chicken, pesto, and cheese) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, make sure the baking dish is well-covered to prevent moisture loss. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake as directed, adding an extra few minutes if it’s chilled from the fridge. This effortless meal prep means you’ll have a comforting, healthy dinner on the table in no time!

Expert Tips for Baked Pesto Chicken

Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on your chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach 165°F to ensure it’s juicy and tender without being dry.

Enhance the Flavor: For an extra flavor boost, consider layering sautéed garlic, onions, or vegetables like zucchini underneath the chicken in the baking dish.

Check Cheese Consistency: Ensure your mozzarella cheese is evenly spread for a consistent melt; press it down slightly to avoid burning while broiling.

Store Wisely: Allow any leftover Baked Pesto Chicken to cool before storing it in an airtight container for up to five days to maintain its moisture and flavor.

Experiment with Pesto: Don’t hesitate to try different pestos—sun-dried tomato or spinach varieties can bring exciting new flavors to the classic dish!

Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best to use for Baked Pesto Chicken?
I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe to keep it light and juicy. However, you can also use chicken tenders or thighs; just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through.

How should I store leftover Baked Pesto Chicken?
Store leftover chicken in a covered container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating to preserve its flavor and moisture.

Can I freeze Baked Pesto Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the chicken to cool completely, then place it in a labeled ziplock bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 4-5 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

What should I do if my chicken is overcooked?
If your chicken turns out overcooked and dry, consider slicing it thinly and mixing it into a sauce or adding it to salads. Re-heating it in broth or a flavorful sauce can help restore some moisture as well!

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone with gluten sensitivities. Just check your pesto label to ensure it’s gluten-free too!

Can I use a different type of pesto?
The more the merrier! Feel free to experiment with other types of pesto like sun-dried tomato or spinach pesto for a different flavor twist. You can also add veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for a delightful boost.