Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

Pesto-stuffed chicken breasts are a deliciously flavorful, easy-to-make dinner option that’s sure to impress. With tender chicken enveloping a vibrant, herby pesto filling, it combines freshness, savoriness, and a little bit of indulgence in each bite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a weeknight dinner, or a gathering, this recipe is versatile and satisfying. Not only does it present beautifully, but it’s packed with delicious flavors and a touch of elegance.

In this guide, we will cover every step of making pesto stuffed chicken breasts, from preparing your ingredients and making homemade pesto, to cooking and serving suggestions. Let’s dive into the detailed world of this mouthwatering dish!

Stuffing chicken breasts with pesto is a fantastic way to elevate a basic protein into something extraordinary. The rich and herby pesto adds moisture, flavor, and a burst of freshness to the chicken, while the chicken itself remains tender and juicy. Whether you make your own pesto or use a store-bought version, the stuffed chicken breast is an incredibly simple yet impressive dish that can be prepared in under an hour.

This dish is perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners: You can prepare it quickly, even after a long day.
• Special occasions: Serve it as a main course at a dinner party or holiday meal.
• Meal prep: Make it in advance for healthy, satisfying lunches throughout the week.

Pesto, typically made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil, is the star of this recipe. The combination of rich, aromatic pesto with the lean protein of chicken offers a balance of flavor and texture that will leave you wanting more.

Step-by-Step Instructions

A. Preparing the Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
   • Start by cleaning the chicken breasts and trimming any excess fat or skin.
   • Use a sharp knife to create a pocket in the thickest part of each chicken breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through—you’re looking to make a slit to hold the pesto filling. If you’re new to this, you can lay the chicken flat and cut horizontally along the middle, leaving one side intact to create a “pocket.”
2. Season the Chicken:
   • Sprinkle both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. You can also add a sprinkle of garlic powder for extra flavor if desired.

B. Making the Pesto

Making your own pesto is easy, and the fresh flavor is unbeatable. However, if you’re short on time, you can always use store-bought pesto.

1. Toast the Pine Nuts (optional):
   • If you’d like a deeper flavor, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are golden and fragrant. This takes about 3-4 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally so they don’t burn. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Pesto:
   • In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, garlic, toasted pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until everything is finely chopped and well mixed.
   • With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil, followed by the lemon juice. Continue to process until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the pesto seems too thick, add a little extra olive oil until you reach the desired consistency.

C. Stuffing the Chicken

1. Fill the Chicken:
   • Take each chicken breast and stuff it generously with the pesto mixture. You can use a spoon or small spatula to fill the pocket. If you want a cheesy twist, add some shredded mozzarella to the filling for a creamy, melty texture.
   • If you’re using cheese, make sure to layer it in with the pesto to help hold the mixture together as it cooks.
2. Secure the Chicken:
   • If necessary, use kitchen twine or toothpicks to close the opening of the chicken breast and secure the filling inside. Be sure to remove the toothpicks before serving.

D. Cooking the Chicken

1. Sear the Chicken:
   • Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet.
   • Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side, until the chicken is golden brown. This step helps lock in the juices and adds flavor through caramelization.
2. Bake the Chicken:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Transfer the skillet to the oven (if using a non-oven-safe skillet, transfer the chicken to a greased baking dish).
   • Bake the stuffed chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
3. Optional: Add Extra Cheese
   • In the last 5 minutes of baking, you can sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese or Parmesan on top of the chicken breasts to make them even cheesier and more indulgent.

Variations of Pesto Stuffed Chicken

While the basic pesto-stuffed chicken breast is delicious on its own, you can try a few variations to change things up:

1. Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Stuffing:
   • Substitute traditional basil pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto for a tangy, savory flavor.
2. Spinach and Pesto:
   • Add some fresh spinach or arugula to the pesto mixture for an extra layer of greens and nutrition.
3. Bacon-Wrapped Chicken:
   • For a crispy, savory crunch, wrap the stuffed chicken breasts in bacon before baking. The bacon adds extra flavor and texture.
4. Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts:
   • You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful alternative to chicken breasts. Adjust cooking time accordingly as thighs may need a little longer to cook.

Healthier Alternatives and Substitutes

If you’re looking to make this dish a bit healthier, here are some suggestions:

• Use skinless chicken thighs for added flavor and moisture without the need for additional fat.
• Try a lighter pesto: Substitute half the olive oil with Greek yogurt or avocado to reduce the calorie content and add a creamy texture.
• Opt for reduced-fat cheese: If you’re aiming for a lighter version, use part-skim mozzarella or a smaller amount of Parmesan.

Serving Suggestions

Pesto-stuffed chicken breasts can be served with various side dishes to make the meal even more satisfying:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts.
2. Fresh Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken.
3. Mashed Potatoes or Rice: Pair the chicken with creamy mashed potatoes, quinoa, or wild rice for a filling side.

Make-Ahead and Storing Leftovers

You can make the pesto-stuffed chicken ahead of time:

• Prepare it ahead: Assemble the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 hours before baking.
• Storing leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain the flavor and texture.

Tips for Success

• Avoid overstuffing: Be careful not to overstuff the chicken breasts. If you pack them too full, the filling might leak out during cooking.
• Check for doneness: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked without being overdone.
• Let the chicken rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to retain its juices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use pre-made pesto? Yes, you can use store-bought pesto if you’re short on time. Just make sure it’s a high-quality pesto.

Can I freeze pesto-stuffed chicken? Yes, you can freeze the stuffed chicken before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Conclusion

The Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast is an easy, flavorful, and elegant dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you make it for a special occasion or just for a weeknight dinner, it’s packed with delicious flavors that make it feel gourmet without requiring too much time or effort. With variations, health adaptations, and simple sides, this dish is versatile, adaptable, and perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!

Yield: 4

Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

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Pesto-stuffed chicken breasts are a deliciously flavorful, easy-to-make dinner option that's sure to impress. With tender chicken enveloping a vibrant, herby pesto filling, it combines freshness, savoriness, and a little bit of indulgence in each bite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a weeknight dinner, or a gathering, this recipe is versatile and satisfying. Not only does it present beautifully, but it’s packed with delicious flavors and a touch of elegance.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or use provolone, if preferred)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning (optional)
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   
2. Prepare the Chicken:
   Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast. Make an incision along the thickest part of the chicken breast, without cutting all the way through, so you can stuff it.
   Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
   
3. Stuff the Chicken:
   Spread about 2 tablespoons of pesto inside each chicken pocket.
   Stuff each pocket with about 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
   
4. Sear the Chicken:
   Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
   Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
   
5. Bake the Chicken:
   Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is fully cooked through.
   If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish before baking.
   
6. Serve:
   Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
   Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad.

Notes

• Pesto Options: You can use store-bought pesto, or make your own by blending fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil. You can also experiment with sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor.
• Cheese Variations: For a twist, try adding other cheeses like Parmesan, goat cheese, or a combination of mozzarella and ricotta for a creamy filling.
• Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes to the pesto or sprinkle some on top of the chicken before baking.
• Side Ideas: Serve with a simple side like roasted potatoes, sautéed spinach, or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavor of the stuffed chicken.