Introduction
If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful, and low-effort chicken dinner, this Basil Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Chicken Bake is exactly what you need. Juicy chicken breasts are smothered in fragrant pesto, topped with ripe tomatoes, and layered with gooey mozzarella cheese. Baked until golden and bubbling, this dish delivers the essence of Caprese salad in a warm, hearty main course.
Perfect for weeknights or when you want to impress guests without fuss, this recipe pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even a crisp green salad.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced (Roma or heirloom work well)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling
Timing
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30–35 minutes
- Total time: ~45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place chicken breasts in a lightly greased baking dish.
- Drizzle with olive oil, season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Add Pesto & Toppings
- Spread 2 tablespoons pesto over each chicken breast.
- Layer with tomato slices.
- Top with mozzarella slices.
Step 3: Bake
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For extra golden cheese, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
- Garnish with fresh basil.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
- Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Tips for Success
- Pound chicken breasts evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Use fresh mozzarella for the best melty texture.
- Homemade pesto enhances flavor but jarred pesto works perfectly for busy nights.
- Broil at the end for that irresistible bubbly golden topping.
Nutrition (per serving, 4 servings)
- Calories: 370
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Sodium: 580mg
(Approximate values depending on pesto and cheese used.)
Healthier Alternatives
- Use part-skim mozzarella for less fat.
- Replace pesto with spinach pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto for variety.
- Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness, but slightly adjust cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with buttered pasta, garlic bread, or roasted potatoes.
- For a lighter option, serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Add a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp arugula salad with balsamic dressing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking chicken – always check with a meat thermometer for juicy results.
- Using watery tomatoes – stick to firm tomatoes like Roma to prevent excess liquid.
- Skipping seasoning – pesto adds flavor, but a little salt and garlic make a big difference.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave gently.
- Freezer: Freeze baked chicken without cheese topping; thaw, then reheat and add fresh mozzarella before serving.
Conclusion
This Basil Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Chicken Bake combines classic Italian flavors into one simple, mouthwatering dish. With juicy chicken, fresh pesto, and melty cheese, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that takes minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
👉 Try it tonight — your kitchen will smell like an Italian trattoria!
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