Description
This Chicken Pesto Bake is a quick and flavorful meal featuring tender chicken breasts topped with fresh basil pesto, juicy tomato slices, and a melty blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it combines simple ingredients with easy oven baking to deliver a comforting, cheesy dish bursting with Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (16 oz total)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Toppings
- 4 teaspoons Skinny Basil Pesto
- 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
- 6 tablespoons (1.5 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 teaspoons grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Wash the chicken breasts thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel. Slice each breast horizontally to create 4 thinner cutlets for more even cooking. Lightly season both sides of the chicken with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to help with easy cleanup later.
- Add Pesto to Chicken: Arrange the chicken cutlets on the prepared baking sheet. Spread about 1 teaspoon of Skinny Basil Pesto over each piece evenly.
- Initial Bake: Bake the chicken cutlets in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Top and Finish Baking: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Top each chicken piece with thin slices of tomato, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated parmesan cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Optional Grilling Method: Alternatively, grill the chicken cutlets over a medium flame on both sides until cooked through. Lower the heat, add the pesto, tomato slices, and cheeses on top, then close the grill lid until the cheese melts.
Notes
- For easier clean-up, line your baking sheet with foil or parchment paper before baking.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Feel free to substitute the Skinny Basil Pesto with your favorite pesto variety.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Using thinly sliced chicken cutlets helps the chicken cook evenly and reduces baking time.
