Basil Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Chicken Bake

Basil Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Chicken Bake is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines juicy baked chicken with creamy mozzarella, vibrant basil pesto, and sweet roasted tomatoes. This easy one-pan meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and delicious – Made with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
• One-pan meal – Minimal cleanup and easy preparation.
• Perfectly juicy chicken – Baked to tender perfection with a cheesy topping.
• Great for meal prep – Stores and reheats well for leftovers.
• Customizable – Use different cheeses or add veggies for extra flavor.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
• Cherry or grape tomatoes (halved)
• Fresh mozzarella (sliced)
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil (for garnish)
• Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven – Set to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Season the Chicken – Place chicken breasts in the dish and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic, and Italian seasoning.
3. Add Pesto & Tomatoes – Spread a generous layer of basil pesto over each chicken breast. Scatter halved tomatoes around the chicken.
4. Bake – Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Add Mozzarella – Uncover, place a slice of fresh mozzarella on each piece of chicken, and bake for another 5-7 minutes until melted.
6. Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with fresh basil and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot honey.
• Cheesy Twist – Use Parmesan or provolone for a different cheese flavor.
• Low-Carb Option – Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Add Veggies – Roast bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach in the same dish.
• Grilled Version – Grill the chicken instead of baking and top with fresh mozzarella and pesto.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked chicken (without cheese) for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or microwave in short bursts.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Adjust cooking time as needed since thighs may take a little longer.

What’s the best pesto to use?

Homemade basil pesto is ideal, but a good-quality store-bought pesto works just as well.

Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of fresh?

Yes! Shredded mozzarella will melt faster and create a gooier texture.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Cover the dish while baking to lock in moisture and avoid overcooking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything in the baking dish and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What side dishes pair well with this?

Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad complement this dish well.

Can I cook this on the stovetop?

Yes! Sear the chicken in a skillet, then cover and simmer with pesto and tomatoes until fully cooked.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes! It’s naturally low in carbs, especially when served with a keto-friendly side.

Can I use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Sun-dried tomatoes add an intense, slightly sweet flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer—165°F (75°C) is the safe internal temperature for chicken.

Conclusion

Basil Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Chicken Bake is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings together fresh ingredients for a satisfying meal. Whether you serve it with pasta, salad, or roasted veggies, this cheesy, herby chicken bake is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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