Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

Packed with flavors, pesto stuffed chicken breast is a delightful dish that’s sure to impress.

Simple ingredients and straightforward techniques make this a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced cooks.

This dish combines the rich taste of fresh basil, creamy mozzarella, and succulent chicken, providing a burst of flavors in every bite.

Table of Contents

Making the Pesto

Start by gathering all the ingredients for the pesto sauce. Combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and minced garlic in a food processor, pulsing until finely chopped.

With the food processor running, slowly add olive oil until the pesto is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, if desired.

The pesto mixture should be rich and fragrant, ready to elevate your chicken to the next level.

Preparing the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a sharp knife, butterfly each chicken breast by slicing through the thickest part, without cutting all the way through.

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Spread a generous amount of pesto inside each butterflied chicken breast.

Add a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped spinach leaves, if desired. Fold the chicken breasts back together, securing with toothpicks if needed.

Cooking the Chicken

Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Once seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to ensure it stays juicy.

Serving Suggestions

Carefully remove the toothpicks from the chicken breasts before plating. Slice the chicken and arrange it on a serving platter.

Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an elegant touch.

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad, making it versatile for any meal.

Tips and Variations

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses and fillings. Feta, goat cheese, or even ricotta can be delicious alternatives.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

You can also freeze the stuffed chicken breasts before cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and cook as directed.

Final Touches

Remember to enjoy the cooking process and feel free to tweak the recipe to suit your taste. Cooking is all about creativity and enjoying the results.

This pesto stuffed chicken breast recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Its rich flavors and appealing presentation make it suitable for any occasion.