Description
Pesto Mozzarella Chicken with Burst Cherry Tomatoes is a flavorful one-pan dinner that combines juicy seasoned chicken breasts, creamy melted mozzarella cheese, vibrant basil pesto, and sweet roasted cherry tomatoes. This easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor using simple ingredients and minimal preparation. As the chicken cooks, the pesto creates a rich herb-infused layer while the mozzarella melts into a delicious blanket of cheesy goodness. The roasted tomatoes become tender and juicy, creating a naturally flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the chicken. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight family dinner or serving guests, this dish is a satisfying, protein-rich meal that looks beautiful and tastes incredible. Serve it with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal everyone will love.
Ingredients For the Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Topping
- ½ cup basil pesto
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves, sliced
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. Season both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly golden.
Step 4: Add the Pesto
Spread a generous spoonful of basil pesto over each chicken breast.
Step 5: Add the Mozzarella
Place slices of fresh mozzarella on top of each pesto-covered chicken breast.
Step 6: Add the Tomatoes
Scatter the cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the skillet.
Step 7: Add Parmesan
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and tomatoes.
Step 8: Transfer to the Oven
Place the skillet into the preheated oven.
Step 9: Bake
Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 10: Roast the Tomatoes
During baking, the tomatoes will soften and burst, releasing their juices into the pan.
Step 11: Broil for Color
For extra golden cheese, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end of cooking.
Step 12: Rest
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
Step 13: Garnish
Sprinkle fresh basil and extra Parmesan over the top.
Step 14: Serve
Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Tips & Notes
- Fresh mozzarella provides the best melting texture.
- Homemade pesto can be used for even richer flavor.
- Cherry tomatoes add natural sweetness and moisture.
- Use an oven-safe skillet to reduce cleanup.
- Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble everything in the skillet and refrigerate for several hours before baking.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely. A good-quality store-bought pesto works perfectly.
What should I serve with this dish?
Pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad pair wonderfully.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Servings
4 servings
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 42g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
This Pesto Mozzarella Chicken with Burst Cherry Tomatoes is an easy yet elegant dinner packed with juicy chicken, creamy cheese, fresh basil pesto, and sweet roasted tomatoes. It’s a simple one-pan recipe that’s loaded with flavor, high in protein, and perfect for busy weeknights or special family meals.