Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

Introduction

Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with the rich taste of pesto and melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts
• ½ cup pesto
• ½ cup shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or parmesan)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast without cutting all the way through.
2. Step 2: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of pesto into each chicken breast pocket, then add a generous amount of shredded cheese on top of the pesto.
3. Step 3: Secure the opening with toothpicks if needed. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish.
4. Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Step 5: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, sprinkle some Italian seasoning or garlic powder on the chicken before baking.
• Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or spinach inside the pocket with the pesto and cheese.
• If fresh pesto is not available, store-bought pesto works just as well.

Storage

Store leftover pesto stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to avoid drying out the chicken.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or provolone can be used to vary the flavor while still melting nicely inside the chicken.

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer to ensure safety and juiciness.

Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

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4.5 from 150 reviews

This Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe features tender chicken breasts filled with vibrant, flavorful pesto and melted cheese, baked to juicy perfection. It’s a simple yet elegant dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, combining fresh basil pesto and creamy cheese inside succulent chicken.

• Author: Mick
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Stuffing

• 1/2 cup basil pesto
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, making sure not to slice all the way through.
2. Stuff the Chicken: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of basil pesto into each chicken pocket, then add a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese inside. Close the pocket to enclose the filling.
3. Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
4. Bake the Chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven, allowing the juices to redistribute. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

• Be careful not to overstuff the chicken breasts to prevent filling spillage during baking.
• For an extra crispy exterior, you can sear the chicken breasts in a hot skillet with some olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side before baking.
• If you don’t have fresh pesto, store-bought works well too, just choose a good quality one for best flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer to check doneness for perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Keywords: Pesto stuffed chicken, baked chicken breast, Italian chicken recipe, chicken with pesto and cheese