Pesto Baked Chicken
Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Servings: 4
Chicken topped with fresh basil pesto and cheese that’s baked until the chicken is cooked and the cheese is melted before topping with a fresh tomato topping!
ingredients
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup basil pesto (link)
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup parmigiano reggiano (parmesan cheese), grated
2 cups tomato bruschetta (see below)(optional)
directions
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Place the chicken in a baking dish and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Spread the basil pesto over the chicken before sprinkling on the cheeses.
Bake in a preheated 350F/180C oven until the chicken is cooked through (165F), about 25-35 minutes, before sprinkling on the basil and enjoying!
Note: The bake time will depend on the size of the chicken breasts; if you use large chicken breasts, it may take longer; use a meat thermometer to make sure that the chicken reaches 165F. If the topping looks like it is getting too dark, cover with foil.
Option: Add 1/2 teaspoon onion powder along with the salt and pepper.
Option: Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes along with the salt and pepper.
Option: Add 8 ounce cream cheese, room temperature; spread over the chicken before topping with the pesto.
Tomato Bruschetta
Prep Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 15 minutes Servings: 4
Fresh tomatoes mixed with garlic, onions, olive oil, balsamic vinegar and basil!
ingredients
2 cups tomatoes, seeded and diced
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
3 cloves garlic, minced/grated
2 tablespoons red onion, finely diced
2 tablespoons basil, thinly sliced
salt and pepper to taste
directions
Mix everything well and optionally let it sit for an hour before enjoying!
