Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup basil pesto sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Season chicken breasts on both sides with salt and black pepper.
- If the pesto is very oily, drain off excess oil from the top of the jar.
- Arrange the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Spread basil pesto evenly over each chicken breast.
- Scatter halved cherry tomatoes over and around the chicken.
- Top each breast with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Optionally, scatter some pine nuts.
- Bake uncovered at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5–7 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Pesto can be homemade or store-bought; drain excess oil if too oily to avoid greasy bake., Leftovers keep in the refrigerator up to 2 days; reheat gently in oven or skillet to retain juiciness., Dish tastes even better the next day after flavors have mingled overnight., Chicken breasts can be substituted with boneless thighs for juicier meat., Vegetarian alternatives: sliced eggplant or thick tofu slabs, adjusting baking time accordingly., Adding baby spinach or zucchini ribbons under the chicken is a good way to add veggies., Resting the dish after baking helps the cheese set and prevents it from sliding off., Do not pile on too much pesto or it can get greasy unless preferred., Use thicker chicken pieces to avoid overcooking and drying out.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with toppings
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal per serving (estimated based on ingredients)
- Fat: Approximately 20-25 grams per serving (estimated)
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-7 grams per serving (estimated)
- Protein: Approximately 35 grams per serving (estimated)