Baked Pesto Chicken

Baked Pesto Chicken is a flavorful and healthy dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated in vibrant basil pesto, then baked to perfection. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome dinner.

Baked Pesto Chicken
30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
American
400 kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts (about 200g each)
  • 4 tablespoons basil pesto
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Spread 2 tablespoons of basil pesto evenly over each chicken breast.
  4. In a bowl, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then scatter them around the chicken in the baking dish.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
  6. Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken.
  7. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve warm.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 400
  • Protein: 45 g
  • Carbs: 8 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
  • Total Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Water: 0.25 L

Health Benefits

  • High in protein, which supports muscle growth and repair.
  • Contains healthy fats from olive oil and pesto, promoting heart health.

Tags

AmericanHealthyDinner