If you’re craving a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and bursting with fresh basil flavor, Cheesy Pesto Chicken is about to become your new weeknight favorite. Imagine tender chicken breasts smothered in a vibrant pesto cream, topped with a golden layer of mozzarella and crispy breadcrumbs—pure comfort and flavor in every bite. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer for busy nights or casual dinner gatherings.
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Recipe Origin:
This dish is inspired by classic Italian flavors, blending creamy cheeses with the bright, herby notes of pesto. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s both approachable and impressive, perfect for bringing a little gourmet flair to your kitchen.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need:
Baking Dish: For layering the chicken and ensuring even cooking.
Mixing Bowl: To combine cream cheese and pesto.
Spatula or Spoon: For spreading the creamy mixture over the chicken.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.
Knife & Cutting Board: For preparing chicken and other ingredients.
Oven: To bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Pesto Chicken
Versatile: Works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a casual weekend meal. Pair with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients that are easy to find in your pantry and fridge. No fancy items required.
Quick and Easy: Minimal prep, with the oven doing most of the work. Even beginner cooks can achieve delicious results.
Customizable: Swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina, add sun-dried tomatoes, or sprinkle crushed red pepper for a bit of heat.
Crowd-Pleasing: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with pesto flavor—this dish satisfies adults and kids alike.
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Cheesy Pesto Chicken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Cheesy Pesto Chicken is a flavorful and creamy baked chicken dish topped with a crunchy panko and mozzarella crust. The combination of pesto and cream cheese makes it rich and aromatic, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 3/4 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix pesto and cream cheese until smooth.
- Spread the pesto cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
- In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Sprinkle the panko and mozzarella mixture evenly over the top of the chicken breasts.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden and bubbly.
- Serve hot with your choice of sides such as pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for easier mixing with pesto.
- Optional: add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to the panko mixture for extra flavor.
- Make sure chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results:
- Chicken: Pound evenly for consistent cooking.
- Pesto & Cream Cheese: Soften cream cheese for easy mixing and a smoother coating.
- Breadcrumbs: Mix with a bit of melted butter for extra crispiness.
- Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better and has a richer flavor.
Ingredients for Cheesy Pesto Chicken
Here’s what makes this dish irresistible:
Chicken Breasts: The star of the dish. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook quickly and stay tender when baked with the creamy topping.
Pesto: Infuses the chicken with bright, herby flavor and adds a beautiful green hue.
Cream Cheese: Creates a rich, smooth coating that pairs perfectly with the savory pesto.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Add a satisfying crunch and golden finish.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy indulgence.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s make this cheesy, pesto-packed delight:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking.
Prepare the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pound slightly if needed to ensure even thickness.
Mix the Creamy Topping: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese and pesto until smooth and well blended. Spread over each chicken breast evenly.
Add Toppings: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the creamy chicken layer, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 25–30 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm, paired with pasta, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: Approx. 450
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
How to Serve Cheesy Pesto Chicken
Pasta: Toss with spaghetti or penne for a hearty meal.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini complements the creamy chicken.
Salads: A light, crisp green salad balances the richness of the dish.
As a Standalone Meal: Serve with garlic bread or warm dinner rolls for comfort food perfection.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Prep Ahead: Assemble chicken and toppings in advance; refrigerate until ready to bake.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheat gently in the oven.
Freezing: Not recommended for best texture, as cheese may separate when thawed.
Variations to Try:
- Add sun-dried tomatoes between chicken and cream cheese layer.
- Mix panko breadcrumbs with parmesan for extra flavor.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle heat twist.
Additional Tips:
Cheese Melting: Use freshly shredded mozzarella for best melt and flavor.
Serving: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for extra color and aroma.
Kid-Friendly: Keep it mild by omitting extra spices.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A1: Yes, bone-in or boneless thighs work, but adjust cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Assemble the chicken and toppings a day in advance and refrigerate until baking.
Q3: Can I use store-bought pesto?
A3: Absolutely! It’s convenient and still delicious.
Q4: Can I substitute mozzarella?
A4: Provolone, fontina, or even cheddar can be used for a different flavor profile.
Q5: Can I make this gluten-free?
A5: Yes, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Q6: Can I add vegetables on top?
A6: Yes, sliced tomatoes or bell peppers work well.
Q7: How can I make it extra crispy?
A7: Mix panko with a little melted butter before sprinkling on top.
Q8: Can I serve this cold?
A8: It’s best served warm, but leftovers can be eaten cold if needed.
Q9: Can I double the recipe?
A9: Yes, just use a larger baking dish or two dishes.
Q10: Can I freeze cooked chicken?
A10: Yes, but for best texture, freeze before baking and cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Conclusion
Cheesy Pesto Chicken is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and herbaceous flavors. With tender chicken breasts, rich pesto cream, golden breadcrumbs, and gooey mozzarella, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a meal that’s comforting, vibrant, and absolutely delicious.
Learn how to make this creamy, cheesy, and high-protein dinner: