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Easy Baked Pesto Chicken

A delicious and easy recipe featuring baked chicken breasts topped with zesty basil pesto and melted mozzarella cheese, perfect for winter evenings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 large large chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds) Make sure to choose fresh, halal-certified chicken.
  • 1 cup basil pesto Use your favorite brand or homemade for an extra touch.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Opt for a good quality, halal cheese.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel to help the flavors stick.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, coat the chicken breasts with the basil pesto, using your hands for even application if desired.
Baking
  1. Place the coated chicken breasts in a greased baking dish, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
  2. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of each chicken breast.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through, with an internal temperature reaching 165°F (74°C).
  4. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy, then slice, serve, and enjoy.

Notes

For making your own pesto, blend fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil. Cooking times may vary based on the thickness of your chicken breasts. Don't rush the resting period after baking for the juiciest results. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or frozen for 2-3 months.