What happens when you marry the rich, indulgent flavor of Chicken Parmesan with the aromatic freshness of Pesto Chicken? You get Chicken Parmesan Pesto Chicken—a dish that brings the best of both worlds into one bite. The traditional crispy chicken cutlet is topped not only with marinara and mozzarella but also with a vibrant layer of basil pesto that cuts through the richness with herby brightness.

This fusion is ideal for home cooks who want to shake up their routine with something comforting yet inventive. It’s perfect for a Sunday dinner, a cozy date night, or a crowd-pleasing dinner party.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Crispy + Creamy: Breaded chicken cutlets give you crunch, while pesto and mozzarella add creamy richness.

• Savory + Fresh: Tomato sauce brings comfort, pesto adds a punch of herbal brightness.

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• Customizable: Use homemade or store-bought pesto, and modify with different cheeses or proteins.

• Freezer-Friendly: Great for meal prep or freezing leftovers for a future treat.

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan

• Baking sheet or casserole dish

• Parchment paper (optional)

• Food processor or blender (for homemade pesto)

• Meat mallet or rolling pin (for flattening chicken)

• Measuring cups and spoons

Serving Suggestions

Pasta Pairings:

• Angel hair, linguine, or spaghetti with olive oil and garlic

• Pesto pasta for extra herby flavor

• Penne tossed in marinara or vodka sauce

Vegetable Sides:

• Roasted zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus

• Sautéed spinach or kale

• A fresh Caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and balsamic

Low-Carb Options:

• Zucchini noodles (zoodles)

• Cauliflower mash

• Steamed broccoli or green beans

Bread Options:

• Garlic bread or focaccia

• Toasted sourdough crostini

Pro Tips for Success

1. Use Quality Ingredients

• Great pesto, fresh basil, and a high-quality marinara elevate this dish from good to great.

2. Avoid Soggy Chicken

• Always drain fried cutlets on paper towels and only add sauce just before baking. This preserves the crispiness.

3. Make Ahead

• Fry chicken cutlets and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Assemble and bake just before serving.

4. Use a Meat Thermometer

• Chicken is done when internal temp hits 165°F (74°C).

5. Double the Pesto

• Pesto freezes beautifully. Make a double batch and save some for pasta, sandwiches, or soups.

Variations and Add-Ons

1. Use Chicken Thighs

• Boneless thighs are juicier and work just as well. Adjust cook time accordingly.

2. Add Veggies

• Place a layer of grilled zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach under the sauce for a more complete meal.

3. Gluten-Free Version

• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond meal.

4. Dairy-Free Option

• Use vegan cheese and nutritional yeast in the pesto. Replace Parmesan with a dairy-free hard cheese.

5. Low-Carb Twist

• Skip the breadcrumbs and pan-sear the seasoned chicken for a keto-friendly version.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers:

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

Reheating:

• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave for 1–2 minutes but note it may soften the crispy coating.

Freezing:

• Assemble the dish fully, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.

• Bake from frozen at 375°F for 45–50 minutes or thaw overnight and bake for 20–25 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Just choose a high-quality pesto without preservatives or excess oil. You’ll need about ½ to ¾ cup.

What cheese melts best on top?

Mozzarella is traditional, but you can mix in provolone or fontina for extra richness. Add Parmesan for a salty finish.

Can I skip the marinara?

You can! For a lighter dish, omit the marinara and go full pesto. You’ll get a more herb-forward flavor.

How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

Don’t assemble the dish too far in advance

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan Pesto Chicken is a simple yet extravagant dish that brings two Italian-American favorites together in one recipe. The crispy chicken cutlets, savory marinara sauce, mozzarella, and the rich, aromatic pesto will satisfy both your cravings for comfort food and your desire for something fresh and exciting.