Basil Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Chicken Bake: A Flavor-Packed Italian-Inspired Dinner
When you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that feels gourmet yet is incredibly simple to make, nothing beats Basil Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Chicken Bake. This dish is a marriage of Mediterranean flavors: juicy chicken breasts, fragrant basil pesto, melted mozzarella, and roasted tomatoes. It’s a family-friendly recipe that comes together in under an hour, yet looks and tastes like something you’d order in a cozy Italian trattoria.
This recipe has become a favorite for home cooks because it checks all the boxes: it’s flavorful, nutrient-rich, low in carbs, and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner or serving guests, this chicken bake offers comfort and elegance all in one.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple but sophisticated: Just a handful of fresh ingredients make this dish restaurant-worthy.
- Healthy & balanced: High in protein, low in carbs, and packed with antioxidants from tomatoes and basil.
- Versatile: Serve it with pasta, rice, roasted veggies, or salad – it works with almost anything.
- Perfect for meal prep: Leftovers reheat beautifully and make a great lunch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, fresh, high-quality ingredients make all the difference.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 2 cups cherry or Roma tomatoes, sliced in halves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Sear the chicken:
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step locks in moisture and enhances flavor.
3. Assemble the bake:
Place the seared chicken into a lightly greased baking dish. Top each breast with a generous spoonful of basil pesto, a slice of mozzarella cheese, and a few slices of tomato.
4. Bake to perfection:
Transfer the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Garnish & serve:
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Basil Pesto Tomato Mozzarella Chicken Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in skillet and sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side.
- Place chicken in baking dish, top with pesto, mozzarella, and tomatoes.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
Tips for Success
- Use fresh mozzarella: The creaminess of fresh mozzarella makes the dish melty and luxurious.
- Homemade pesto shines: If you have fresh basil, making your own pesto adds incredible depth of flavor.
- Don’t skip the sear: Browning the chicken first adds caramelization that boosts overall taste.
- Meal-prep friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Variations to Try
- Pesto alternatives: Swap basil pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto for a new twist.
- Cheese variations: Try provolone, fontina, or parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Veggie boost: Add zucchini slices, roasted bell peppers, or eggplant to the baking dish.
- Make it creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is versatile and pairs well with:
- Garlic butter pasta or creamy risotto.
- Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Crusty bread to soak up the pesto and tomato juices.
Nutritional Benefits
This chicken bake isn’t just delicious – it’s nourishing too:
- Protein-rich: Chicken breast provides lean protein essential for muscle health.
- Antioxidant boost: Tomatoes are loaded with vitamin C and lycopene.
- Healthy fats: Olive oil and pesto deliver heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Low-carb: Perfect for keto or low-carb diets.
Fun Fact: The Caprese Connection
The flavor profile of this dish is inspired by the classic Italian Caprese salad – fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. By adding chicken and baking everything together, we’ve transformed a simple salad into a hearty, satisfying meal that still pays homage to traditional Italian cuisine.
