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.