Italian Chicken Bake
This easy Italian Chicken Bake is loaded with pesto, juicy tomatoes, and plenty of melted mozzarella cheese. With just four simple ingredients, it’s an easy chicken dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
If you’re searching for an easy chicken dinner that doesn’t require a long list of ingredients, this Italian Chicken Bake is just what you need. Tender chicken is topped with flavorful pesto, fresh tomato slices, and plenty of gooey mozzarella cheese, then baked until everything is hot, bubbly, and delicious.
AN EASY 4-INGREDIENT CHICKEN DINNER
We eat a lot of chicken around here, and if you’re anything like me, sometimes you get stuck making the same chicken recipes over and over again. Chicken is easy and versatile, but it can get a little boring if you don’t switch things up.
That’s exactly why I love this Italian Chicken Bake. It takes an ordinary package of chicken and turns it into something the whole family can get excited about.
And the best part? You only need four ingredients!
The pesto does most of the work when it comes to flavor. Add fresh tomatoes and a generous layer of mozzarella cheese, and you have a simple dinner that tastes like you spent much more time in the kitchen than you actually did.
I originally made this recipe with boneless chicken thighs, and they are absolutely delicious. They stay juicy and tender while baking and soak up all that wonderful pesto flavor. You can also use boneless chicken breasts if that’s what your family prefers.
This is one of those easy recipes you’ll want to keep handy when you’re staring into the refrigerator wondering, What in the world am I going to make for dinner tonight?
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well in this recipe. If your chicken breasts are especially thick, you may want to slice them in half or pound them to an even thickness so they cook more evenly. Always cook chicken until the thickest part reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What kind of pesto should I use?
Prepared basil pesto from the grocery store makes this recipe incredibly quick and easy. You can use your favorite brand or homemade pesto if you have some on hand.
Can I use fresh mozzarella?
Yes! Fresh mozzarella would be delicious. Just keep in mind that fresh mozzarella contains more moisture than shredded mozzarella, so the finished dish may have a little more liquid in the bottom of the baking dish.
Can I make Italian Chicken Bake ahead of time?
You can assemble the chicken with the pesto and tomatoes a few hours ahead of time and keep it covered in the refrigerator. I recommend adding the mozzarella just before baking.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Cooking time can vary depending on the size and thickness of your chicken. The safest way to tell is with a meat thermometer. Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches 165°F in the thickest part.
How should I store leftovers?
Allow the chicken to cool, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or cover and warm in the oven until heated through.
INGREDIENTS NEEDED (SEE FULL RECIPE IN RECIPE CARD BELOW)
Chicken thighs – Boneless chicken thighs stay tender and juicy as they bake. Boneless chicken breasts can also be used.
Pesto – Prepared basil pesto gives the chicken tons of Italian-inspired flavor without needing a bunch of extra seasonings.
Mozzarella cheese – Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully over the chicken and tomatoes.
Tomatoes – Fresh tomatoes add color, freshness, and flavor to this easy chicken bake.
HOW TO MAKE ITALIAN CHICKEN BAKE
Preheat your oven to 375°F.
Arrange the chicken thighs in a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
Spread the prepared pesto over the chicken, making sure each piece gets plenty of that delicious basil flavor.
Top each piece of chicken with thinly sliced tomatoes.
Cover everything with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the chicken is completely cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serve hot and enjoy!
TIPS & VARIATIONS
Use chicken breasts: Boneless chicken breasts work just as well. Adjust the cooking time depending on their thickness.
Add Parmesan: Sprinkle some grated or shredded Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella for even more cheesy Italian flavor.
Try sun-dried tomatoes: Not a fan of fresh tomatoes? Sun-dried tomatoes would make a flavorful substitution.
Add some heat: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the finished chicken for a little kick.
Don't overcook the chicken: Chicken sizes vary, so start checking the internal temperature before the end of the suggested cooking time.
Let it rest: Give the chicken a few minutes to rest after removing it from the oven before serving.
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