Name: Stuffed Chicken Breast with Basil Pesto
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade); 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

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Stuffed Chicken Breast with Basil Pesto is a deliciously savory dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with a rich and aromatic pesto filling. The fresh basil pesto adds an herby, garlicky kick that perfectly complements the tender chicken, making this dish a standout option for dinner parties, weeknight meals, or special occasions. It’s easy to prepare and incredibly flavorful, and can be paired with a variety of sides for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Stuffed Chicken Breast with Basil Pesto is a flavorful and impressive dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. The juicy, baked chicken is stuffed with a creamy pesto mixture, infusing every bite with aromatic basil, garlic, and Parmesan. It’s a great way to elevate chicken breasts while keeping them moist and tender. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs. It’s a low-carb, high-flavor meal that can be paired with pasta, vegetables, or even served on its own for a lighter option.

Stuffed Chicken Breast with Basil Pesto

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
1 tablespoon fresh Parmesan cheese (grated, optional for garnish)
Fresh basil (optional for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing horizontally into the thickest part of the breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Stuff the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix the basil pesto with the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stuff each chicken breast with the pesto and cheese mixture, securing the opening with toothpicks if necessary to keep the filling inside.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 2 servings and takes about 40 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or an elegant dish for guests.

Variations

Spinach & Pesto Stuffed Chicken: Add a handful of fresh spinach to the pesto mixture for added nutrition and color.
Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: Use sun-dried tomato pesto instead of basil pesto for a tangy and rich flavor twist.
Cheese Variation: You can swap out the mozzarella for goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier, more decadent filling.
Grilled Chicken: Instead of baking the chicken, you can also grill it for a smoky flavor. Just be sure to monitor the temperature closely.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Stuffed Chicken Breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, though the texture of the filling may be slightly affected.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought basil pesto works perfectly in this recipe. However, making homemade pesto can add a fresh, flavorful touch if you have the ingredients on hand.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, though you’ll need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to check if the chicken is done is by using a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the breast.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken by stuffing and searing it ahead of time, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, just bake it in the oven until it’s fully cooked and heated through.

How do I prevent the pesto filling from leaking out?

Make sure to seal the chicken well by securing the pocket with toothpicks, and avoid overstuffing the chicken. Additionally, searing the chicken before baking helps keep the filling in place.

Can I freeze Stuffed Chicken Breast with Basil Pesto?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers to the pesto filling for added flavor and texture.

What should I serve with Stuffed Chicken Breast with Basil Pesto?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, pasta, quinoa, or a simple green salad. For a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice or steamed asparagus.

How do I make this dish lighter?

To make the dish lighter, reduce the amount of cheese in the filling or use a lighter pesto (such as one made with Greek yogurt instead of oil) and bake the chicken without searing it in oil.

Can I use a different type of cheese in the filling?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like ricotta, goat cheese, or Parmesan. Each cheese will provide a slightly different texture and flavor, so feel free to experiment.

Conclusion

Stuffed Chicken Breast with Basil Pesto is a flavorful and impressive dish that combines the juicy tenderness of chicken with the aromatic richness of basil pesto and melted mozzarella. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that’s perfect for dinner parties, weeknight meals, or meal prepping for the week. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the delightful taste of fresh basil, cheese, and perfectly cooked chicken in every bite!

Jane