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Baked Pesto Caprese Chicken Recipe

Baked Pesto Caprese Chicken Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 20 reviews

A flavorful and easy-to-make baked chicken dish topped with fresh basil pesto, melted mozzarella, and ripe tomato slices, finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner that combines Italian-inspired ingredients in a healthy, protein-packed meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs or 680 g)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings and Sauce

  • 1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze

Cooking

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the chicken evenly.
  2. Season Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels to remove moisture, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
  3. Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown, locking in juices.
  4. Add Pesto: Remove the skillet from heat. Spread about 1/4 cup of basil pesto evenly over each chicken breast, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
  5. Layer Cheese and Tomatoes: Arrange slices of fresh mozzarella cheese on top of each pesto-covered chicken breast, then layer tomato slices over the cheese for a fresh, vibrant topping.
  6. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Finish with Balsamic Glaze: After baking, drizzle the balsamic glaze evenly over the chicken to add a sweet and tangy contrast to the rich flavors.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve the baked pesto caprese chicken warm, pairing it nicely with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • You can make homemade basil pesto using fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil for a fresher taste.
  • Use an oven-safe skillet like cast iron to sear and bake in the same pan for convenience and better flavor.
  • If you don’t have balsamic glaze, reduce balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until thickened to create a similar effect.
  • Make sure chicken is cooked through by checking with a meat thermometer; this ensures safety and juiciness.
  • For a low-fat option, use part-skim mozzarella and less olive oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: Baked Chicken, Pesto Chicken, Caprese Chicken, Italian Chicken Recipe, Healthy Chicken Dinner, Basil Pesto Recipe, Mozzarella Tomato Chicken

Find it online: https://thehungrymason.com/baked-pesto-caprese-chicken-recipe/