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Imagine a tasty dish ready in just 40 minutes, perfect for busy nights. Easy Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken is a twist on pesto chicken with melted mozzarella.
This dinner is not only tasty but also easy to make. You can add pasta, rice, or veggies for a full meal. Plus, leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, perfect for meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken is a low-carb, gluten-free, and easy-to-make dish.
- The recipe yields 4 servings and can be prepared in just 40 minutes.
- The dish has a total of 466 kcal per serving, 39 g of protein, and 31 g of fat.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need:
Chicken Breasts: The main protein and base of the dish. Chicken breasts provide a lean and tender texture that pairs well with the pesto and mozzarella.
Pesto: Adds a burst of flavor with its combination of basil, garlic, Parmesan, pine nuts, and olive oil.
Mozzarella Cheese: Provides a creamy and melty topping that enhances the flavor of the chicken and pesto, creating a satisfying texture.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken and balancing the overall taste of the dish.
Olive Oil: Used for cooking and to keep the chicken moist during baking, while also adding a subtle fruity flavor.
Step by Step Instructions
To make the recipe, follow these easy steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Dry the chicken breasts with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Put the chicken breasts in the dish. Spread pesto over each chicken. Then, add mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for 10-15 minutes more. The cheese should melt and the chicken should be 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. Add fresh basil or extra pesto. Serve warm.
Tips for Perfectly Baked Chicken
Use Similar-Sized Chicken Breasts: Make sure all chicken breasts are the same size. Pound thick parts if needed.
Don’t Overbake: Check with a meat thermometer. Baking too long can dry out the chicken.
Let It Rest: Let the chicken rest. This keeps it tender and juicy.
Creative Variations
Add Vegetables: Put sliced tomatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms around the chicken. It makes a full meal.
Swap the Cheese: Try using provolone or Parmesan instead of mozzarella. It changes the flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the pesto. It adds heat.
Herbed Breadcrumb Topping: Top with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and Italian herbs. It adds crunch.
Serving Suggestions
With Pasta: Serve with linguine or spaghetti. Add olive oil and garlic.
With Salad: Pair with a green salad or Caprese salad. It’s refreshing.
With Crusty Bread: Enjoy with warm garlic bread or baguette. It soaks up juices well.
As a Sandwich: Slice the chicken. Serve on a toasted ciabatta roll. It’s tasty.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Frozen Chicken: Thaw the chicken before baking. It cooks evenly.
Skipping the Foil: Not using foil can dry out the chicken before the cheese melts.
Overloading the Pesto: Too much pesto is greasy. Use just enough to coat the chicken.
Not Greasing the Dish: Grease the dish to prevent chicken from sticking. It makes cleanup easier.
Easy Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- ½ cup pesto store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat chicken dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Place chicken in the baking dish. Spread 2 tbsp pesto on each piece, then top with shredded mozzarella.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and the chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C internal temp).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with extra pesto or fresh basil if desired.
Video
Notes
FAQ’s
What are some recommended side dishes and garnishes for the Easy Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken?
Serve with rice, veggies, or a salad. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Add chili pepper flakes for extra flavor.
How can the Easy Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken recipe be customized?
Add veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. Try different cheeses, like parmesan or feta. This makes the dish unique.
How should leftover Easy Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken be stored and reheated?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. Make sure it reaches 165 degrees F.
Can the Easy Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken recipe be adapted for special diets?
Yes, for gluten-free or low-carb diets, use gluten-free pasta and low-carb veggies. Use part-skim mozzarella to cut calories.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making the Easy Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken?
Avoid overcooking the chicken. It should be moist, not dry. Also, use high-quality pesto and cheese for the best flavor.
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