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Homemade Basil Pesto Chicken photo

Basil Pesto Chicken

Tender chicken breasts stuffed with pesto and parmesan, baked and finished with a creamy garlic-parmesan sauce, fresh basil, and balsamic.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 4 lb chicken breasts skinless, boneless (about 4 large breasts)
  • 1/2 cup pesto store-bought or homemade
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 2 oz cream cheese
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 4 basil leaves chiffonade, for topping
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar for drizzling

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • nonstick cooking spray
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp Knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Trim the chicken breasts and cut each large breast in half lengthwise. If desired, butterfly each half by slicing almost through and opening like a book; leave about 1/2 inch uncut so it holds together.
  3. Spoon about 2 heaping teaspoons of pesto onto each chicken half, spreading slightly.
  4. Sprinkle about 2 heaping teaspoons of grated Parmesan on top of the pesto in each piece, then fold the top half over the bottom and place the stuffed chicken pieces in the prepared baking dish.
  5. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, cream cheese, minced garlic, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan. Heat, whisking often, until the cheeses melt and the sauce is smooth and lump-free.
  6. Pour the warm cheese sauce evenly over the arranged chicken. If any pesto or Parmesan remains, sprinkle it over the top.
  7. Bake uncovered for 35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  8. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with the chiffonade basil leaves, and drizzle with balsamic vinegar. Serve hot.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, skip the cheese sauce and top with fresh mozzarella slices.
  • You can add mozzarella slices inside the chicken for extra cheesiness.
  • Sprinkle fresh basil over the finished dish for more flavor.
  • Use a second baking dish if needed to avoid overcrowding.
  • Leave about 1/2 inch uncut when butterflying the chicken so it holds together.
  • If breasts are very large, cut them in half before butterflying.