Description
This Italian Chicken with Basil Pesto & Grape Tomatoes is a flavorful and easy-to-make baked chicken dish. Tender chicken breasts are seared to perfection, topped with vibrant basil pesto, juicy grape tomatoes, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then baked until perfectly cooked. Garnished with fresh basil, this recipe makes a perfect low-carb, gluten-free main course ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken & Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups grape tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes until they develop a light golden crust. This step locks in juices and adds flavor. Remove the skillet from heat.
- Add Pesto and Toppings: Spread a generous spoonful of basil pesto evenly over each seared chicken breast. Top them with the halved grape tomatoes, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top for a cheesy finish.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet directly to the preheated oven. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest and Garnish: Carefully remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving to add a fresh aromatic touch.
Notes
- Serve with pasta, rice, or a simple green salad to complete the meal.
- Cherry tomatoes can be used as a substitute for grape tomatoes if preferred.
- For an extra rich flavor, drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the cooked chicken before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
