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Golden baked chicken breasts topped with vibrant green pesto and melted cheese in a ceramic baking dish

Chicken Pesto Bake

A creamy, cheesy pesto chicken bake that's perfect for weeknight dinners. Juicy chicken breasts smothered in homemade pesto and melted mozzarella.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto store-bought or homemade
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish.
  2. Step 2: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
  3. Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden (it doesn't need to be cooked through).
  4. Step 4: Transfer chicken to prepared baking dish. Spread pesto evenly over each breast.
  5. Step 5: In a small bowl, mix heavy cream and minced garlic. Pour around (not over) the chicken in the baking dish.
  6. Step 6: Scatter cherry tomatoes around the chicken. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan evenly over everything.
  7. Step 7: Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and chicken reaches 165°F internally.
  8. Step 8: Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, try adding sliced mushrooms or spinach. Leftovers keep well for 3 days refrigerated. Serve with crusty bread or over pasta.