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–+ servings
Pesto Chicken Bake

Irresistibly Easy Pesto Chicken Bake for Busy Weeknights

This Pesto Chicken Bake transforms weeknight dinners into a flavorful celebration with juicy chicken, vibrant basil pesto, and gooey cheese.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking Dish
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Consider substituting with boneless thighs for richer flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper

For the Topping

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with cooking spray or neutral oil.
  • 1 cup Basil Pesto Store-bought or homemade.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Provolone can be used for richer taste.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Vegan alternatives can be used.

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Can be swapped with zucchini or bell peppers.
  • Fresh Basil For garnish; parsley can be substituted.

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
  • Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, then place them in the greased baking dish.
  • Spread a layer of basil pesto over each chicken breast to infuse with flavor.
  • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the chicken, and optionally arrange halved cherry tomatoes around it.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 30gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg
Keyword Chicken Recipe, easy recipe, healthy meal, one-dish meal, Pesto Chicken Bake, weeknight dinner
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