Description
Stuffed Chicken Breast with Basil Pesto is a flavorful and elegant dish featuring chicken breasts stuffed with a vibrant basil pesto, mozzarella cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s perfect for a special dinner or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.
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)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Using a sharp knife, create a pocket in the side of each chicken breast by cutting horizontally (be careful not to cut all the way through).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano on both sides.
- In a small bowl, mix together the basil pesto, shredded mozzarella, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the pesto mixture, securing the opening with toothpicks if necessary.
- Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the toothpicks, if used, and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add some balsamic glaze or extra pesto drizzle on top before serving.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Feel free to swap the mozzarella for another cheese like provolone or goat cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
