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Creamy Pesto Baked Chicken
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Creamy Pesto Baked Chicken

This Creamy Pesto Baked Chicken is an easy one-pan dinner featuring juicy chicken breasts baked in a rich basil pesto cream sauce and topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a comforting family dinner.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Keyword: baked pesto chicken, creamy chicken bake, creamy pesto baked chicken, easy chicken dinner, low carb chicken dinner, mozzarella chicken bake, one pan chicken recipe, pesto chicken recipe
Servings: 4
Calories: 2440kcal

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup basil pesto
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Brush with olive oil and season both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the basil pesto, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
  • Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
  • Pour the creamy pesto sauce evenly over the chicken.
  • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
  • Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • For a golden, bubbly cheese topping, broil for 2–3 minutes if desired.
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • Pound thick chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts and tastes better than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Do not overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Add cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and color.
  • Leftovers are delicious served over pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles.

Nutrition (Per Serving) 

  • Calories: 610 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Protein: 46g
  • Fat: 45g
  • Saturated Fat: 19g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 185mg
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Potassium: 810mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Vitamin A: 1,150 IU
  • Vitamin C: 4mg
  • Calcium: 340mg
  • Iron: 2mg