Pesto Chicken Bake: An Easy Low-Carb Dinner Everyone Will Love!

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes, this Pesto Chicken Bake is the perfect solution! Juicy chicken breast cutlets are smothered in garlic, pesto, fresh tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese for a dish that’s bursting with Italian-inspired flavors. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or just want a simple yet delicious meal, this Pesto Chicken Bake will become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Pesto Chicken Bake

✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 27 minutes!
✅ Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – Only 6g net carbs per serving.
✅ Packed with Flavor – Garlic, pesto, tomatoes, and cheese create an irresistible combo.
✅ Meal-Prep Friendly – Perfect for lunches or busy weeknights.
✅ Crowd-Pleasing – Kids and adults alike will devour this dish!

With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this Pesto Chicken Bake is the ultimate hassle-free dinner. Let’s dive into the details!

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Ingredients for Pesto Chicken Bake

To make this delicious Pesto Chicken Bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds chicken breast (cut into 4 cutlets*)
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 4 tablespoons pesto (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 large tomatoes, sliced
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Salt (to taste)

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

🔹 Chicken Breast Cutlets – Most grocery store chicken breasts are large (around 1 pound each). For even cooking and proper portions, butterfly-cut them into thinner cutlets or buy pre-cut chicken cutlets.
🔹 Pesto – Use homemade pesto (like my Sunflower Seed Basil Pesto) or a high-quality store-bought version.
🔹 Tomatoes – Fresh Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes work best.
🔹 Cheese – Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better than pre-shredded (which contains anti-caking agents).

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Pesto Chicken Bake

This recipe is incredibly simple—just layer the ingredients and bake! Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for perfectly cooked chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Place chicken cutlets in a single layer in a baking dish.
2. Lightly season with salt.
3. Spread ½ teaspoon minced garlic over each cutlet.

Step 3: Add Pesto & Tomatoes

1. Spread 1 tablespoon pesto over each chicken cutlet.
2. Top with 2-3 tomato slices per cutlet.

Step 4: Sprinkle with Cheese

1. Evenly distribute ¼ cup shredded mozzarella over each piece.

Step 5: Bake & Rest

1. Bake for 22-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
2. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving (this keeps the chicken juicy).

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The Health Benefits of Pesto Chicken Bake

When it comes to quick and nutritious dinners, Pesto Chicken Bake stands out as a high-protein, low-carb meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that support a healthy lifestyle. Let’s break down the key health benefits of this flavorful recipe.

1. High-Quality Protein for Muscle Health

Chicken breast is one of the best sources of lean protein, with each serving of this Pesto Chicken Bake providing a whopping 79g of protein. Protein is essential for:

• Muscle repair and growth (great for athletes and fitness enthusiasts).
• Keeping you full longer, which helps with weight management.
• Supporting metabolism by increasing the thermic effect of food (TEF).

Since this recipe uses skinless, boneless chicken breast, it’s naturally low in saturated fat, making it a heart-healthy choice.

2. Healthy Fats from Pesto

Traditional pesto is made with olive oil, nuts (like pine nuts or walnuts), and fresh basil, all of which contribute to its healthy fat content. These fats include:

• Monounsaturated fats (from olive oil) – Supports heart health and reduces inflammation.
• Omega-3 fatty acids (from nuts and basil) – Promotes brain function and lowers bad cholesterol.

If you opt for a homemade pesto, you can control the ingredients, avoiding preservatives and excess sodium found in some store-bought versions.

3. Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly

With only 6g of carbs per serving, this Pesto Chicken Bake is perfect for those following:

• Keto diets (keeps carbs low while providing healthy fats).
• Low-carb or diabetic-friendly meal plans (helps regulate blood sugar).
• Gluten-free lifestyles (naturally free from grains).

The minimal carbs come mostly from the tomatoes, which also provide fiber and vitamins.

4. Rich in Vitamins & Antioxidants

The ingredients in this dish offer a nutrient boost:

• Tomatoes – High in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced risk of heart disease.
• Garlic – Contains allicin, which has immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Basil (in pesto) – A great source of vitamin K, iron, and antioxidants.

5. Easy Digestion & Gut Health

Unlike heavy, cream-based dishes, this Pesto Chicken Bake is light yet satisfying, making it easy on digestion. The garlic and olive oil in pesto also support gut health by promoting good bacteria.

Final Thought: This Pesto Chicken Bake is more than just a tasty meal—it’s a nutrient-dense, protein-packed dinner that supports muscle health, heart health, and weight management.

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 How to Customize Your Pesto Chicken Bake

One of the best things about this Pesto Chicken Bake is how versatile it is! Whether you want to add extra veggies, switch up the cheese, or make it dairy-free, there are endless ways to customize this dish. Here are some delicious variations to try.

1. Veggie-Packed Versions

Boost the fiber and nutrients by adding:

• Spinach or Arugula – Layer under the tomatoes for extra greens.
• Roasted Bell Peppers – Adds sweetness and color.
• Zucchini or Eggplant – Thinly slice and layer with the chicken.
• Mushrooms – Sautéed mushrooms add an umami depth.

2. Cheese Swaps & Additions

While mozzarella is classic, you can experiment with:

• Parmesan – Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
• Burrata – For a creamy, decadent twist.
• Goat Cheese – Tangy and delicious with pesto.
• Dairy-Free Cheese – Use almond or cashew-based cheese for a vegan option.

3. Protein Variations

Not a fan of chicken? Try:

• Salmon or Shrimp – Works great with pesto!
• Turkey Cutlets – A lean alternative.
• Tofu or Chickpeas – For a vegetarian/vegan version.

4. Pesto Variations

Switch up the pesto for different flavors:

• Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto – Adds a rich, tangy taste.
• Kale or Spinach Pesto – For extra greens.
• Avocado Pesto – Creamy and dairy-free.
• Nut-Free Pesto – Use sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead of pine nuts.

5. Spice It Up

If you love heat, try:

• Red Pepper Flakes – Sprinkle on before baking.
• Jalapeños – Thinly slice and add with tomatoes.
• Spicy Pesto – Blend in some chili oil or fresh peppers.

6. Make It a One-Pan Meal

Add roasted potatoes or cauliflower to the baking dish for a complete meal. Just adjust cooking time as needed.

Final Thought: Whether you’re looking for extra veggies, a different protein, or a dairy-free version, this Pesto Chicken Bake is endlessly adaptable to suit your tastes and dietary needs.

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 Meal Prep & Storage Tips for Pesto Chicken Bake

If you love easy, make-ahead meals, this Pesto Chicken Bake is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store, reheat, and freeze it for busy weeks.

1. Meal Prepping This Dish

• Prep Ahead – Assemble the chicken, pesto, tomatoes, and cheese in a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Batch Cooking – Double the recipe and bake two dishes at once (great for families or leftovers).

2. Storing Leftovers

• Fridge – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer – Freeze before or after baking:
  • Unbaked – Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
  • Baked – Slice into portions, wrap individually, and freeze.

3. Reheating Tips

• Oven (Best for Crispiness) – Reheat at 350°F for 10-15 mins until warmed through.
• Microwave (Quick Option) – Cover with a damp paper towel and heat for 1-2 mins.
• Air Fryer – Reheat at 375°F for 5-7 mins for a crispy top.

4. Serving Leftovers Creatively

Turn leftovers into:

• Pesto Chicken Salad – Chop and mix with greens, olives, and balsamic.
• Chicken Wraps – Stuff in a low-carb tortilla with avocado.
• Pasta Topping – Slice and serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti.

Tips for the Best Pesto Chicken Bake

✔ Use Thin Cutlets – Ensures quick, even cooking.
✔ Homemade Pesto = Next-Level Flavor – Try my Sunflower Seed Basil Pesto for a nut-free option.
✔ Broil for a Crispy Top – If you love extra browning, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
✔ Add Spinach or Zucchini – For extra veggies, layer them under the tomatoes.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories	558
Total Fat	23g
Saturated Fat	7g
Cholesterol	219mg
Sodium	428mg
Carbohydrates	6g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	3g
Protein	79g

This Pesto Chicken Bake is a high-protein, low-carb meal that fits into keto, gluten-free, and Mediterranean diets.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair this Pesto Chicken Bake with:

🍽 Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative to regular rice.
🍽 Zucchini Noodles – Light and fresh.
🍽 Side Salad – With balsamic vinaigrette.
🍽 Garlic Bread – For a more indulgent option.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead?

Yes! Chicken thighs will work but may require 5-10 extra minutes of cooking time.

2. Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

4. Can I Freeze Pesto Chicken Bake?

Yes! Freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.

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Recommended Products for This Recipe

• Lodge Stoneware Baking Dish – Perfect for even baking.
• Silicone Spatula Set – Great for spreading pesto.

(As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

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Final Thoughts: Why This Pesto Chicken Bake Is a Must-Try!

This Pesto Chicken Bake is the ultimate weeknight dinner—quick, healthy, and packed with flavor. The combination of garlicky pesto, juicy tomatoes, and melted mozzarella makes every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s low-carb, keto-friendly, and gluten-free, so it fits almost any diet.