Baked Pesto Chicken Parmesan

 Here’s a delicious and healthier twist on a classic—Baked Pesto Chicken Parmesan. This recipe uses pesto for added flavor and bakes the chicken for a lighter option, still packed with savory goodness.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Parmesan

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup marinara sauce (your favorite jarred or homemade)

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

1 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Breading (optional)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if desired)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp dried oregano

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

If you want extra crispy breading, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and oregano in a shallow dish. Dredge each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat evenly.

2. Bake the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken breasts and sear them for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. This step adds flavor and texture.

Once seared, transfer the skillet to the oven and bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

3. Add the Pesto and Sauce

Remove the chicken from the oven (if using breaded chicken, you can keep it in the skillet for this step).

Spread a generous spoonful of basil pesto over each chicken breast, followed by a spoonful of marinara sauce.

Top with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

4. Finish Baking

Return the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.

Garnish with fresh chopped basil before serving.

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Tips

Serve the Baked Pesto Chicken Parmesan with pasta, zucchini noodles, or a side salad for a complete meal.

You can use homemade pesto for even more flavor, and you can make it ahead of time if desired.

If you want to make it even lighter, you can skip the breadcrumb coating, and just bake the chicken with the pesto and sauce.

Enjoy your Baked Pesto Chicken Parmesan—a lighter, but still incredibly flavorful take on the classic chicken parm!