If you are craving a meal that is both incredibly simple and impressively flavorful, this 4 Ingredient Pesto Chicken Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Combining tender chicken breasts with the unmistakable bright, herbaceous punch of basil pesto, melted creamy mozzarella, and fresh tomato slices, this dish is an absolute celebration of fresh ingredients working in perfect harmony. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a fuss-free dinner that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because it relies on just a handful of ingredients, each one playing a critical role in building layers of texture and taste. Forget complicated shopping lists—these essentials come together to create a dish that’s bright, juicy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying.
- Chicken breast (450 g, thinly sliced): The lean, tender protein base making every bite hearty but light.
- Basil pesto (120 ml): Bursting with fresh basil and garlic, this spread packs huge flavor with minimal effort.
- Fresh mozzarella cheese (230-280 g, sliced): Melts beautifully on top, cloaking the chicken in creamy, gooey goodness.
- Beefsteak tomato (1 large, thinly sliced): Adds a juicy, slightly acidic freshness that balances the richness.
- Salt and black pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance every other flavor.
- Garlic powder (15 ml): A subtle background note that deepens the savory profile.
- Fresh basil (optional, shredded): A bright garnish that elevates both taste and presentation.
How to Make 4 Ingredient Pesto Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 190 degrees Celsius. Preheating the oven ensures a consistent cooking environment, which is key for perfectly baked chicken that remains juicy and tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Place the thinly sliced chicken breasts in a suitable baking dish, about 23 cm by 33 cm. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This basic seasoning layer enhances the natural flavor of the chicken and complements the herbaceous pesto later on.
Step 3: Spread the Pesto
Evenly coat both sides of the chicken pieces with basil pesto. Don’t be shy—this vibrant green sauce is the heart of the dish and adds moisture, flavor, and a hint of garlic and pine nuts that will sing when baked. Ensuring each piece is well coated is crucial for that authentic pesto flavor.
Step 4: Arrange in the Baking Dish
Lay the chicken pieces in a single layer side by side within the baking dish. This arrangement helps them cook evenly while allowing the pesto to meld into every bite.
Step 5: Layer Cheese and Tomato
Top each pesto-coated chicken breast with slices of fresh mozzarella cheese, then add a layer of the thinly sliced beefsteak tomato on top. If you want, add just a pinch more salt and pepper to bring out even more brightness and balance. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating a luscious, creamy topping, while the tomato adds freshness and a subtle tang.
Step 6: Add Basil and Bake
Sprinkle shredded fresh basil over the assembled dish if you have it on hand, then pop the whole dish into the oven. Bake for about 30 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese has melted into a golden, bubbly layer. This oven time allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to become perfectly juicy and tender.
Step 7: Serve Warm
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and serve the chicken while it’s warm and fresh. This final step is key so you can enjoy the melty cheese, aromatic basil, and juicy tomato at their best.
How to Serve 4 Ingredient Pesto Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil leaves or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can add a lovely finishing touch to your plated dish, bringing an extra pop of color and fresh, fragrant flavor.
Side Dishes
This 4 Ingredient Pesto Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with lighter sides like a crisp green salad, garlic roasted vegetables, or even a simple couscous or quinoa salad to soak up any leftover pesto sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, try serving the chicken over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside a buttery garlic bread to offer contrast in texture and richness. You can also slice the chicken and serve it as a topping for toasted focaccia bruschetta for a flavorful appetizer twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pesto chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep it well covered to maintain the moisture and prevent the cheese from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months. Keep in mind the texture of fresh tomato may change slightly upon thawing, but the flavors will still be delightful.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 160 degrees Celsius until warmed through, which helps maintain the texture of the chicken and prevents the cheese from becoming rubbery. Alternatively, using a microwave on medium power is a quick option but watch to avoid overheating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pesto for this recipe?
Absolutely! While basil pesto is classic and highly recommended for this recipe, experimenting with sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto can add a unique twist to the flavors without overwhelming the chicken.
Is it necessary to slice the chicken thinly?
Thin slices help the chicken cook faster and more evenly. If you prefer thicker pieces, adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly without drying out.
Can I prepare this dish without the tomato slices?
Yes, but the tomato adds a fresh and slightly acidic brightness that balances the richness of the mozzarella and pesto. Skipping it will still produce a tasty dish, but the flavor profile will be less complex.
What is the best way to ensure the chicken stays moist?
Using pesto as a marinade and topping acts as a flavorful barrier that locks in moisture during baking. Also, avoid overcooking the chicken by checking it around the 30-minute mark for doneness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! All the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, making this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive eaters provided the pesto you use contains no gluten additives. Always check ingredient labels to be sure.
Final Thoughts
This 4 Ingredient Pesto Chicken Recipe is more than just a quick dinner idea—it’s a testament to how just a few wonderful ingredients can come together to create something truly delightful. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I love eating it. Once you try it, you might find yourself repeating it again and again, turning it into a kitchen staple for busy days that still deserve a little delicious magic.
Print
4 Ingredient Pesto Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A simple and flavorful 4 Ingredient Pesto Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken breasts topped with vibrant basil pesto, fresh mozzarella, and beefsteak tomato slices, baked to perfection for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 450 g chicken breast, thinly sliced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 15 ml garlic powder
- 120 ml basil pesto
- 1 large beefsteak tomato, thinly sliced
- 230–280 g fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil, shredded (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven temperature to 190°C (374°F) to preheat while you prepare the chicken.
- Prepare Chicken: Place the thinly sliced chicken breast fillets evenly in a 23 cm x 33 cm baking dish. Season both sides thoroughly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the natural flavors.
- Apply Pesto: Spread the basil pesto evenly over each piece of chicken on both sides to ensure a rich, herbaceous flavor throughout the dish.
- Arrange Chicken: Lay the pesto-coated chicken breasts in a single layer side by side within the baking dish to allow even cooking.
- Add Toppings: Layer fresh mozzarella slices on top of each chicken breast, then add a layer of thinly sliced beefsteak tomato. Optionally, season with a little extra salt and pepper for a balanced taste.
- Garnish: Sprinkle shredded fresh basil over the assembled dish to add a fresh, aromatic finish before baking.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature of 75°C or 165°F) and the cheese has melted and is slightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the pesto chicken warm, optionally garnished with extra fresh basil leaves for presentation.
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are thinly sliced for faster and more even cooking.
- You can substitute beefsteak tomato with plum or Roma tomatoes if preferred.
- For a lighter option, use part-skim mozzarella instead of whole milk mozzarella.
- Check chicken doneness with a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking.
- Fresh basil is optional but adds a wonderful fragrant touch to the dish.
- This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.
