Creamy Pesto Baked Chicken Recipe

Introduction

This creamy pesto baked chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are topped with a luscious blend of cream cheese and basil pesto, then baked with gooey mozzarella. It’s comfort food made easy, with a fresh finish from tomatoes and basil.

Ingredients

• 3-4 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds)
• 1 (8oz) block cream cheese (softened)
• ⅓ cup basil pesto
• 1+ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh chopped tomatoes and basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 375° F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with ⅓ cup basil pesto until smooth and well blended.
3. Step 3: Place the chicken breasts in the greased baking dish. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast using a spoon or spatula.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle 1 cup or more of shredded mozzarella cheese over the coated chicken breasts. Feel free to add extra cheese if you love it.
5. Step 5: Bake uncovered on the center oven rack for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
6. Step 6: Garnish with fresh chopped tomatoes and basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use homemade or store-bought pesto based on your preference. For a nut-free version, look for pesto without pine nuts.
• Try swapping mozzarella for provolone or fontina cheese for a different melty texture and flavor.
• To add a little crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking.
• If using larger chicken breasts, pound them slightly for more even cooking.

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to keep the cheese creamy and the chicken moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. If using frozen chicken, thaw completely before preparing the dish.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

You can try substituting cream cheese and mozzarella with dairy-free alternatives, but the texture and flavor will differ. Look for plant-based cream cheese and shredded cheese to create a similar creamy topping.

Creamy Pesto Baked Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 110 reviews

This Creamy Pesto Baked Chicken features tender boneless skinless chicken breasts smothered in a luscious blend of cream cheese and basil pesto, topped with melted mozzarella cheese, then baked to perfection. It’s a comforting and flavorful one-dish meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners. Fresh chopped tomatoes and basil add a bright, fresh garnish, making it both visually appealing and delicious.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 3–4 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds)

Creamy Pesto Mixture

• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup basil pesto

Topping

• 1+ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh chopped tomatoes
• Fresh basil leaves

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375° F (190° C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and to help with easy cleanup.
2. Mix Cream Cheese and Pesto: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the basil pesto until well blended into a smooth, creamy mixture.
3. Prepare Chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts evenly in the greased baking dish. Using a spoon or spatula, spread the cream cheese and pesto mixture evenly over the top surface of each chicken breast, coating them fully.
4. Add Cheese Topping: Generously sprinkle at least one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the coated chicken breasts. Feel free to add more if you prefer an extra cheesy finish.
5. Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish on the center rack of your oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 45 minutes. Cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of your chicken breasts. Bake until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165° F (74° C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped tomatoes and fresh basil leaves to add vibrant color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

• You can use store-bought or homemade basil pesto; adjust quantities to taste.
• To ensure even cooking, try to select chicken breasts of similar size and thickness.
• For a lower-fat option, use reduced-fat cream cheese and part-skim mozzarella.
• Leftovers can be stored covered in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
• Adding fresh garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture can add extra flavor.

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