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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.

Ingredients

Scale

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.

Keywords: Creamy Pesto Baked Chicken, baked chicken recipe, pesto chicken, easy chicken dinner, creamy chicken, mozzarella chicken bake

Find it online: https://servedbynora.com/creamy-pesto-baked-chicken-recipe/