Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken

Introduction & Inspiration

Sometimes you just need a dinner that’s full of flavor but doesn’t take a ton of effort — and that’s exactly where this Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken comes in.

I created this recipe because I love meals that feel restaurant-quality but are easy enough to throw together on a busy night.

It’s juicy, herby, cheesy, and full of fresh flavors, all baked together in one pan.

Plus, it’s low-carb, naturally gluten-free, and guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table.

A simple dish that looks impressive and tastes even better.

Nostalgic Appeal

There’s something about pesto and melted mozzarella that immediately takes me back to cozy Italian-style dinners with family.

Growing up, pesto was a treat — something we reserved for special pasta nights or spread onto warm, toasty bread.

Bringing those nostalgic flavors into a hearty baked chicken dish feels like the perfect marriage of comfort and simplicity.

Every bite is a reminder that you don’t need a complicated recipe to create something truly delicious.

Just a few fresh ingredients, baked with love.

Homemade Focus

Making Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken at home means you get to use real, high-quality ingredients and customize everything to your taste.

You choose the basil pesto — homemade or store-bought — and layer it thickly over the chicken.

You slice fresh mozzarella instead of reaching for pre-shredded cheese, getting that beautiful melty, stretchy texture.

You season your chicken exactly the way you like it, adjusting for your perfect balance of spices.

Homemade meals like this prove that fast doesn’t have to mean flavorless — quite the opposite!

Flavor Goal

The goal with this recipe was to create bold, fresh, and comforting flavors in every forkful.

The chicken breasts are seasoned simply but generously with paprika, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.

Basil pesto adds rich, herby, slightly garlicky flavor that infuses the chicken as it bakes.

Fresh mozzarella melts into a creamy, luxurious topping that pulls the whole dish together.

Cherry tomatoes burst in the oven, adding sweet, juicy pops of freshness that balance the richness perfectly.

It’s savory, herby, cheesy, and just a little tangy — the perfect combination of flavors!

Ingredient Insights

Every ingredient in this dish was chosen to maximize flavor while keeping it simple and easy.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean but stay juicy when baked properly under a blanket of pesto and cheese.

Olive oil helps the seasonings stick and adds a little richness to the baked chicken.

Salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder build a flavorful base on the chicken itself.

Italian seasoning adds a perfect blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that complement the pesto beautifully.

Basil pesto brings concentrated herby, garlicky goodness to the party — use your favorite brand or make your own for even more freshness.

Fresh mozzarella slices melt gorgeously, giving you stretchy, creamy bites with every forkful.

Cherry tomatoes add bright, sweet bursts of flavor that balance the rich pesto and cheese.

It’s a small but mighty ingredient list that packs a serious punch of deliciousness.

Essential Equipment

You don’t need anything fancy for this easy recipe.

A large casserole dish or baking pan ensures the chicken cooks evenly without overcrowding.

Tongs help you flip and coat the chicken evenly with seasonings and pesto without making a mess.

A sharp knife and cutting board are perfect for slicing the fresh mozzarella and halving the cherry tomatoes.

A spoon or spatula makes spreading the pesto quick and easy.

Simple tools, big flavors — my favorite kind of cooking.

Ingredients with Measurements

For the Chicken:

• 4 large chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

For Topping:

• ½ cup basil pesto
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 425°F.
Spray a large casserole dish with cooking spray or coat it lightly with olive oil.

Step 2:
Place the chicken breasts in the dish in a single layer.
Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken.

Step 3:
Sprinkle the chicken evenly with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Flip the chicken over and season the other side as well to make sure every inch is covered.

Step 4:
Spoon the basil pesto over the chicken breasts.
Use the back of the spoon to spread it out evenly.
Flip the chicken carefully with tongs to coat both sides with the pesto.

Step 5:
Layer slices of fresh mozzarella over the top of the pesto-covered chicken.

Step 6:
Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the baking dish.

Step 7:
Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil.
Bake covered for 25 minutes.

Step 8:
Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes.
The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the chicken fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).

Step 9:
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.
Spoon some of the juicy tomatoes and melted cheese over the top of each chicken breast.

Troubleshooting

If your chicken releases too much liquid during baking, just spoon off a little before serving to keep everything nice and saucy.

If your mozzarella browns too quickly, loosely tent the dish with foil for the last few minutes.

Be sure not to overcook the chicken — checking the temperature with a meat thermometer ensures juicy results every time.

If you like a crispier top, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end until the cheese bubbles and browns slightly.

Tips and Variations

Swap the mozzarella for provolone, fontina, or even burrata for a delicious twist.

Use store-bought sun-dried tomato pesto instead of basil pesto for a richer, tangier flavor.

Add a handful of baby spinach or arugula before baking for extra greens.

Top with freshly grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving if you like a little extra kick.

For a heartier meal, serve it over cooked pasta or with a side of garlic bread to soak up all the saucy goodness.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve this Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken with a simple green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette.

It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a side of creamy risotto.

A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or even a light red wine like Pinot Noir makes the perfect drink pairing.

It’s the ultimate easy dinner that feels a little fancy but is super relaxed at the same time.

Nutritional Information

This dish is naturally low-carb, high-protein, and packed with fresh ingredients.

Basil pesto provides healthy fats, while fresh mozzarella adds satisfying richness.

Cherry tomatoes bring a dose of antioxidants and bright, natural sweetness.

It’s a balanced meal that satisfies cravings while keeping things wholesome and fresh.

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Recipe Summary and Q&A

This Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken is juicy, cheesy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make — a true weeknight hero.

Can I prep it ahead?
Yes!
Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I use store-bought pesto?
Definitely.
Choose a good quality basil pesto for the best flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

With just a few fresh ingredients and one baking dish, you’re minutes away from an unforgettable dinner!