Introduction
This delicious and creamy chicken dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of tender chicken breasts, rich cream cheese, and flavorful basil pesto creates a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress. Topped with gooey mozzarella cheese, fresh cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil, this recipe is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 ounces softened cream cheese
⅓ cup basil pesto
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup sliced cherry tomatoes
4 to 6 fresh basil leaves, chopped
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 to 45 minutes
Total Time: 40 to 55 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
To prepare this tasty dish, preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and basil pesto until you achieve a smooth consistency. Place the chicken breasts in the greased baking dish and generously spread the cream cheese and pesto mixture over each piece. Follow by sprinkling shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 30 to 45 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. After removing the dish from the oven, enhance the flavors by garnishing with sliced cherry tomatoes and freshly chopped basil before serving. Enjoy your delightful chicken creation!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and basil pesto. Mix until the ingredients are smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Arrange the Chicken Breasts
Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
Step 4: Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture
Take the cream cheese and pesto mixture you prepared earlier and spread it evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
Step 5: Add the Mozzarella Cheese
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the cream cheese mixture on each chicken breast.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 45 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the baking dish from the oven. Garnish the baked chicken with sliced cherry tomatoes and freshly chopped basil leaves before serving.
Notes
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of pasta or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Variations
You can add other vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, to the cream cheese mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Cook techniques
Preparation of Chicken
Ensure the chicken breasts are boneless and skinless for easier cooking. If desired, you can pound the chicken to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
Mixing Spreads
Combine softened cream cheese and basil pesto in a bowl until smooth. This mixture will add flavor and moisture to the chicken.
Layering Ingredients
Spread the cream cheese and pesto mixture evenly over each chicken breast. This allows for an even distribution of flavor.
Cheese Topping
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top for a deliciously gooey finish. This adds texture and richness to the dish.
Baking
Bake in the preheated oven until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Garnishing
Once out of the oven, add sliced cherry tomatoes and chopped fresh basil as a garnish. This enhances presentation and adds fresh flavors.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like provolone or gouda for different flavors.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with sides like rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the chicken with the cream cheese and pesto mixture and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with portobello mushrooms or stuffed bell peppers to create a vegetarian version.
Conclusion
This creamy, pesto-infused chicken dish is a delightful medley of flavors that is easy to prepare and sure to impress. The combination of chicken, cream cheese, and mozzarella creates a rich and comforting meal, while the freshness of basil and cherry tomatoes adds a vibrant touch. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pesto Chicken Pasta
Combine cooked pasta with diced chicken, basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella for a quick and satisfying dish.
Creamy Chicken Pizza
Use the creamy mixture as a sauce for pizza, topping it with cooked chicken, fresh basil, and sliced cherry tomatoes.
Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Stuff chicken breasts with a mixture of cream cheese, pesto, and mozzarella, then bake until golden and bubbly.
Chicken and Veggie Skewers
Marinate chunks of chicken in basil pesto and thread onto skewers with cherry tomatoes and bell peppers, then grill for a healthy option.
Pesto Chicken Salad
Shred leftover chicken and mix it with basil pesto, cream cheese, and chopped veggies for a delicious and creamy salad.
