Basil Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Chicken Bake

This Basil Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Chicken Bake is an easy, wholesome, and incredibly flavorful dish that brings together the savory richness of basil pesto, the juiciness of tomatoes, and the creamy melt of mozzarella cheese. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, and it pairs well with just about any side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: Minimal ingredients and quick prep make this recipe great for busy evenings.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of pesto, tomato, and mozzarella delivers a delicious, Italian-inspired taste.
• Low Carb: Great for those watching their carbs or following a gluten-free diet.
• One-Dish Wonder: Everything bakes together in one dish—less cleanup!

Ingredients

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

• chicken breasts
• salt and freshly ground black pepper
• basil pesto
• Roma tomatoes (or any firm slicing tomatoes)
• shredded mozzarella cheese
• fresh basil leaves (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season Chicken: Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Layer Ingredients: Place chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spoon pesto over each piece. Layer tomato slices over the pesto, and then sprinkle evenly with mozzarella.
4. Bake: Bake uncovered for 3540 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve: Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Options: Try provolone, gouda, or even goat cheese for different flavor profiles.
• Add Veggies: Add sliced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach under the tomatoes for extra nutrition.
• Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
• Use Chicken Thighs: Substitute with boneless, skinless thighs for a juicier result.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave individual portions for 12 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly and saves prep time.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and suitable for a keto diet.

What’s the best type of tomato for this dish?

Roma tomatoes are ideal because they’re firm and not too watery.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble it earlier in the day and refrigerate until ready to bake.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer. The chicken is fully cooked at 165°F (75°C).

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

What should I serve it with?

It pairs well with a green salad, roasted veggies, rice, or pasta.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free pesto and vegan mozzarella to make it dairy-free.

Does it work with chicken thighs?

Yes, but you may need to reduce the cooking time slightly.

Can I cook it on the stovetop?

It’s best baked, but you can sear the chicken first and then finish in the oven-safe skillet.

Conclusion

Basil Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Chicken Bake is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is sure to be a favorite with its fresh ingredients and rich Italian-inspired flavor.

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