Creamy Pesto Chicken is a simple, flavorful dinner made with chicken, cream cheese, pesto, and mozzarella. With minimal prep and easy ingredients, it’s a family favorite that works well low-carb or served with sides like rice, pasta, or a salad.
Creamy Pesto Chicken
This one-pan bake makes juicy, tender chicken topped with a rich pesto-cream cheese mixture and melted mozzarella. It’s quick to assemble, forgiving in the oven, and kid-friendly—an excellent weeknight option whether you want a low-carb meal or something to stretch across the table with a few sides.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs, if you prefer)
- Pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- Shredded mozzarella
Instructions
Bring the cream cheese to room temperature so it blends easily with the pesto. If needed, soften it briefly in the microwave in 10-second bursts in a microwave-safe bowl.
Spread the creamy pesto mixture evenly over each chicken piece using a spatula. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella, cover the dish with foil, and bake until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted. Finish under the broiler briefly to brown the top if desired. This straightforward method yields a tender, flavorful result that’s loved by kids and adults alike.
The creamy pesto sauce seals in moisture while baking, so the chicken stays juicy. The melted mozzarella adds a golden, savory finish that makes every bite comforting and satisfying.
Garnish Options
- Cherry tomatoes
- Fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sliced onions
- Grated Parmesan
- Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes
Suggested Sides
- Simple side salad
- Steamed or herbed rice
- Pasta, or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option
- Roasted or steamed vegetables
This recipe is ideal for an easy, fuss-free dinner that still feels special. The creamy pesto layer keeps the chicken moist as it bakes and the mozzarella gives it a bubbly, golden top. Pair with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
“I’m allergic to pine nuts, so I make my own pesto with walnuts. I made this last week, and it was delicious! P.S. I also added bacon!”
K. D. Michael
“The creamy pesto cheese mixture is good on salmon too!”
Paula greene
“Make this weekly! Actually just made for dinner tonight! I added cherry tomatoes on top!”
Heather Marie
More Easy Dinner Recipes
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Creamy Garlic Chicken
Creamy Beef Pasta
How to Make Alfredo Sauce
Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe
Creamy Pesto Chicken
Equipment
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9″ x 13″ baking dish (or similar)
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Mixing bowl
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Foil
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Non-stick spray
Ingredients
- 4 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ⅓ cup pesto
- 8 ounce cream cheese, at room temperature
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and pesto until smooth. If needed, microwave in 10-second intervals to soften the cream cheese.
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Prepare your baking dish with non-stick spray.
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Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish.
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Spread the cream cheese–pesto mixture evenly over each piece of chicken.
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Top each piece with shredded mozzarella.
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Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. Baking time may vary depending on the size of the breasts.
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Uncover and broil for 1–2 minutes to brown the cheese, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.