Name: Pesto Chicken Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts); Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil; ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade); 1 to 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Optional: cherry tomatoes (sliced); Optional: fresh basil for garnish

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Discover the savory comfort of this Pesto Chicken Bake, a delightful combination of juicy chicken breasts layered with vibrant basil pesto and melting cheeses. This dish comes together effortlessly, offering a fragrant, cheesy delight that fills your kitchen with enticing aromas and your table with wholesome goodness.

Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners, the tender chicken pairs beautifully with the rich pesto and bubbling mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Whether you choose to add fresh cherry tomatoes or garnish with basil, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole combines bold layers of basil pesto and cheeses for rich, comforting flavor.
It’s easy to assemble and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
Customizable with veggies or cheese variations to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Four medium chicken breasts provide tender, lean protein and serve as the star of this hearty bake.
Salt & freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning chicken, enhancing natural flavors without overpowering them.
Olive oil: One to two tablespoons used to lightly grease the baking dish, preventing sticking and adding subtle richness.
Basil pesto: Half a cup of aromatic pesto (store-bought or homemade) delivers fresh herbaceous flavor and moisture to each chicken piece.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: One to two cups melt over the chicken, providing creamy, gooey texture and mild taste.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Half a cup adds salty, nutty depth and a golden crust when baked.
Optional cherry tomatoes: Sliced halves add a pop of color and juicy sweetness to complement the savory layers.
Optional fresh basil for garnish: Adds vibrant color and reinforces the fresh basil flavor of the pesto.

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Set your oven temperature to 190 °C (approximately 375 °F) to ensure even cooking. Lightly brush your baking dish with olive oil to create a non-stick surface and help with easy cleanup later.
Season the Chicken Breasts: Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This seasoning step enhances the natural chicken flavor and balances the richness of the pesto and cheese.
Arrange Chicken and Spread Pesto: Place the seasoned chicken breasts evenly in the greased baking dish. Spread a generous layer of basil pesto over the top of each piece to infuse aromatic herbal flavor throughout the bake.
Add Cheese and Optional Tomatoes: Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the pesto-covered chicken. If using, tuck halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken; their sweetness brightens each bite and adds visual appeal.
Bake the Dish: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through with an internal temperature of 74 °C (165 °F), and the cheese should be melted, golden, and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top if desired for a fresh pop of flavor and color. Serve warm alongside your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or pasta to round out the meal.

You Must Know

Ensure chicken is cooked to 165 °F internally for safe consumption and optimal juiciness.
The bake can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking to save time on busy days.
Add sliced bell peppers or zucchini inside the dish for added nutrition and texture diversity.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, making sure the chicken reaches safe internal temperatures before serving again.

Serving Suggestions

This pesto chicken bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal. Rice or your favorite pasta also complements the rich, cheesy flavors perfectly.

Professional Tips

Use homemade pesto with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and good olive oil for the best flavor impact.
Mix mozzarella with provolone cheese to add extra creaminess and a subtle tang.
Let the chicken rest a few minutes after baking to retain juices and enhance tenderness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?: Yes, but thaw them completely before baking to ensure even cooking and safe food temperatures.
Is this dish gluten-free?: Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Always check pesto labels if store-bought to avoid gluten-containing additives.
Can I substitute chicken thighs?: Boneless, skinless thighs can be used for a juicier, richer bake but will require slightly longer cooking time.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?: Replace mozzarella and Parmesan with vegan cheese alternatives suited for melting, and ensure pesto is dairy-free.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?: Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What sides complement this dish best?: Roasted vegetables, garlic bread, pasta, or a fresh mixed green salad work wonderfully as sides.
How spicy is the pesto chicken bake?: The basic recipe is mild, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes to the pesto for a spicy kick.