Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Bake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 72 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: High-Protein

Description

This pesto mozzarella chicken bake features juicy chicken breasts smothered in fragrant basil pesto and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s an easy, flavorful dinner that comes together quickly, perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 2 lbs (900g) boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Toppings

  • ½ cup basil pesto
  • 1½ cups (170g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully heat while you prepare the dish.
  2. Prepare the baking dish and chicken. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Place the chicken breasts in the dish in a single layer.
  3. Season the chicken. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts, then evenly sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to season each piece thoroughly.
  4. Spread pesto on chicken. Using a spoon or knife, evenly spread the basil pesto over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring each piece is well coated with flavor.
  5. Bake the chicken. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes to cook the chicken nearly through.
  6. Add mozzarella cheese. Remove the baking dish from the oven and generously top each chicken breast with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  7. Finish baking. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), indicating it is fully cooked.
  8. Garnish and serve. Optionally sprinkle with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and extra aroma before serving your delicious pesto mozzarella chicken bake.

Notes

  • Serve the pesto mozzarella chicken bake with your choice of sides such as pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  • For a richer and creamier texture, use fresh mozzarella slices in place of shredded cheese.
  • Leftover chicken bake can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before eating.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Find it online: https://sarasplate.com/pesto-mozzarella-chicken-bake-recipe/