Description
This Italian Chicken with Basil Pesto & Grape Tomatoes is a flavorful and easy-to-make dinner featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with aromatic basil pesto, fresh grape tomatoes, and a melty blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfectly baked till golden and bubbly, this dish delivers a delightful combination of Italian flavors that’s great for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner with family.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Toppings & Garnishes
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the chicken to perfection.
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle salt and black pepper evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts to enhance their flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown, forming a flavorful crust. Then remove the skillet from heat.
- Add pesto and toppings: Spread the basil pesto evenly over each chicken breast. Top them with the halved grape tomatoes, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese has melted and turned bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve the chicken hot for a delicious Italian-inspired meal.
Notes
- This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a simple side salad.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a little pesto before cooking.
- If grape tomatoes aren’t available, cherry tomatoes make a great substitute.
