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Pesto Stuffed Chicken

Home cooks, taken with iPhone 14. Close-up slight angle of comforting Pesto Stuffed Chicken on white plate. rich inviting --ar 4:3 --style raw --s 260

Pesto Stuffed Chicken features tender chicken breasts filled with vibrant basil pesto and melted mozzarella, making for a flavorful and satisfying Italian-inspired meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Toothpicks or kitchen twine

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast without slicing all the way through.
  3. Season the chicken breasts inside and out with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  4. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of basil pesto into each pocket.
  5. Insert mozzarella slices into each pocket over the pesto.
  6. Secure the openings with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the filling inside.
  7. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
  8. Sear each chicken breast for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
  10. Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, then remove toothpicks or twine before serving.

Notes

Serve with a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For extra flavor, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan before baking.