Introduction
Are you looking for a quick and tasty dinner? Do you love the fresh flavor of pesto and juicy chicken? If yes, then this Easy Pesto Chicken Bake is just what you need! This recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights. You only need a few ingredients and about 30 minutes of your time.
It’s a great dish to make for your family, and even picky eaters will enjoy it. Plus, it smells amazing while it bakes in the oven! Whether you’re new to cooking or just want something fast and tasty, this pesto chicken bake is the answer.
Ingredients – Pesto Chicken Bake
You only need a few things to make this recipe. Most of them you might already have in your kitchen!
Here is what you need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup of basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Cherry tomatoes (optional for extra flavor and color)
Step by Step Process – Pesto Chicken Bake
Here’s how you can make this easy dish in your own kitchen. Just follow these steps:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by turning on your oven. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). This will make sure it’s hot and ready when your chicken goes in.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. If your chicken breasts are thick, you can cut them in half so they cook faster.
Sprinkle a little salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken.
Step 3: Add the Pesto
Take your basil pesto and spread it on top of each piece of chicken. You can use a spoon or a brush. Make sure to cover the top of the chicken nicely.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Now sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the pesto-covered chicken. If you like a little extra cheesy taste, add Parmesan cheese on top too.
Step 5: Add Olive Oil and Tomatoes (Optional)
Drizzle a bit of olive oil over everything. If you’re using cherry tomatoes, you can place them around the chicken. They will get soft and juicy as they bake.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
Put the baking dish into the oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is no longer pink in the middle and the cheese is melted and golden on top.
Tip: You can check with a fork or cut into one piece to make sure it’s cooked all the way through.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Take the dish out of the oven. Let it sit for a few minutes. Then serve it with rice, pasta, or even a salad. Enjoy your delicious pesto chicken bake!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 – 400 kcal |
| Protein | 35 – 40 g |
| Carbohydrates | 3 – 5 g |
| Fat | 20 – 25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 – 9 g |
| Sugar | 1 – 2 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 – 1 g |
| Sodium | 500 – 600 mg |
| Calcium | 150 – 200 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes! Store-bought pesto works great in this recipe. But if you want, you can also make fresh pesto at home using basil, garlic, olive oil, nuts, and cheese.
Q2. What can I serve with pesto chicken bake?
You can serve it with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or even a simple salad. It goes well with almost anything!
Q3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs too. Just make sure they are fully cooked through before serving.
Q4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare everything earlier in the day and keep it in the fridge. Then, just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
Q5. How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay good for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven.
Q6. Is this recipe good for kids?
Yes! Most kids love the cheesy flavor. If your kids don’t like strong pesto, you can use a little less or mix it with cream cheese to make it milder.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Pesto Chicken Bake is one of those meals that looks fancy but is super simple to make. With just a few ingredients and one baking dish, you can have a tasty dinner ready in no time.
It’s great for families, busy people, or anyone who wants a no-stress meal that still tastes amazing. You don’t need to be a chef to make it — just follow the steps, and you’ll have a dish that everyone will love. So next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner, give this recipe a try. You might just find a new favorite!
