Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast with Pesto is an indulgent yet simple dish that combines the richness of melted mozzarella cheese with the aromatic, herbaceous flavors of pesto. The chicken breasts are filled with gooey mozzarella, giving every bite a creamy, savory surprise. Paired with the fresh, vibrant flavors of pesto, this dish takes classic chicken to the next level. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a combination of comforting flavors and a touch of elegance.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
1/4 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Carefully cut a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing horizontally but not all the way through, creating a space to stuff the cheese.
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Place two slices of mozzarella cheese inside each chicken breast pocket.
Drizzle about 1 tablespoon of pesto sauce over the cheese inside each chicken breast.
Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken breasts in the skillet for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
Once seared, 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).
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped fresh basil and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Cheese options: If you prefer a different cheese, try substituting mozzarella with provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Spicy pesto: For a little kick, add red pepper flakes to your pesto sauce or use a spicy pesto variant.
Stuffed with vegetables: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers inside the chicken with the mozzarella for extra flavor.
Chicken thighs: If you prefer dark meat, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave the chicken for 1-2 minutes, but the oven method will help maintain its crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them fully before starting the recipe to ensure even cooking.

2. Can I make the pesto from scratch?

Absolutely! Homemade pesto made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil will elevate the dish. You can find plenty of easy pesto recipes online.

3. Can I grill the chicken instead of searing it in a pan?

Yes, grilling the chicken adds a great smoky flavor. Just grill the stuffed chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes on each side before transferring them to the oven to finish cooking.

4. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (75°C).

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken, stuff it, and sear it in advance. Then, store it in the refrigerator and bake it just before serving.

6. Is it possible to freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, increasing the baking time slightly.

7. Can I use a different kind of pesto sauce?

Yes, you can try using other varieties of pesto, such as sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto, for different flavors.

8. Can I add other ingredients inside the chicken breast?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms along with the mozzarella for extra texture and flavor.

9. What sides go well with this dish?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, a side salad, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a complete meal.

10. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the pesto sauce you use does not contain any gluten-containing ingredients.

Conclusion

Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast with Pesto is a deliciously simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, gooey cheese, and fresh pesto, it’s a meal that will satisfy your taste buds while being easy enough to prepare on a weeknight. Plus, with a variety of variations and options for storing and reheating leftovers, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.