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Delicious pesto baked chicken topped with fresh basil and cheese

Best Pesto Baked Chicken

A comforting and effortless dish of tender chicken breasts coated in vibrant pesto and topped with gooey melted mozzarella, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts tender, moist protein
  • 3/4 cup mozzarella, shredded melty, creamy texture
  • 1/2 cup pesto herbaceous, garlicky flavor
  • Salt and pepper to taste, enhances flavor

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to a comfortable baking temperature.
  • Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
  • Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a greased baking dish, ensuring they’re evenly spaced.
  • Spoon the pesto generously over the chicken breasts, spreading it out evenly.
  • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top of the pesto-covered chicken.

Cooking

  • Transfer the baking dish to your preheated oven and bake until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  • Let the chicken sit for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, then slice and serve.

Notes

Make sure to season the chicken evenly and use fresh pesto for better flavor. Rest the chicken after baking to keep it juicy.
Keyword baked chicken, comfort food, easy dinner, Pesto Chicken, quick meal