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Juicy chicken breasts coated with a creamy basil pesto and mayonnaise mixture, topped with crunchy breadcrumbs, and baked to golden perfection. A quick and flavorful dinner perfect for weeknights.

  • Total Time: 35–40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pieces chicken breast halves (about 1.25 pounds)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/3 cup Hellman’s or Best Food’s mayonnaise
  • 1/3 cup basil pesto
  • 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  3. In a bowl, mix 1/3 cup mayonnaise and 1/3 cup basil pesto until smooth.
  4. Optional: Marinate the chicken in the mayonnaise–pesto mixture for about 1 hour in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
  5. Spread the mayonnaise–pesto sauce thickly and evenly over each chicken breast.
  6. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of breadcrumbs over the coated chicken breasts.
  7. Place the coated chicken breasts in a baking dish.
  8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

Notes

Use fresh breadcrumbs if possible for a crispier crust., Ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) internally for safety., Marinating the chicken ahead of time deepens flavor., Add shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for a cheesy crust., Substitute grilled eggplant or portobello mushrooms to make a vegetarian version., Use vegan mayonnaise and plant-based protein like seitan or tofu for a vegan variation., Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes to maintain breadcrumb crispiness., Store leftovers in airtight containers; refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months.

  • Author: Ashley
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast half
  • Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving (estimate, based on ingredients)
  • Fat: Approximately 20g per serving
  • Carbohydrates: Approximately 8g per serving
  • Protein: Approximately 30g per serving