Pesto Mozzarella Chicken – Juicy, Flavorful, and Oven-Baked
Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with creamy mozzarella, basil pesto, and sweet cherry tomatoes. Baked until golden and melty, this dish is easy, healthy, and ready in under 40 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 35–40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1/4 cup basil pesto
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4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
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1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Toothpicks for sealing
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Cut a pocket into each chicken breast and season inside and out.
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Fill each with 1 tbsp pesto, 2–3 mozzarella slices, and cherry tomatoes.
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Secure with toothpicks.
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Heat oil in a skillet and sear chicken on both sides, 2–3 minutes per side.
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Transfer to oven and bake 18–22 minutes, until internal temp reaches 165°F.
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Rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
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Use sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for variation.
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Substitute low-moisture mozzarella to reduce liquid.
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Store leftovers up to 4 days in the fridge.
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Great with pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables.