There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked flatbread wafting through the kitchen, especially when topped with the vibrant flavors of basil pesto and tender chicken. This Pesto Chicken Flatbread is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a breeze to whip up, ready in just 30 minutes. Imagine sitting around the dinner table with your loved ones, sharing slices of this delightful dish, and enjoying a moment of connection on a busy weeknight.
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Pesto Chicken Flatbread
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Pesto Chicken Flatbread, perfect for busy weeknight dinners and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 pieces of flatbread (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
- Lay out the flatbreads on a baking sheet. Spread a generous layer of basil pesto over each piece.
- Distribute the sliced chicken evenly over the pesto-covered flatbreads.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken, followed by halved cherry tomatoes.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
- If you want a crispy top, switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Carefully take the flatbreads out of the oven and let them cool for a minute.
- Slice into quarters or halves and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Serve warm with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For maximum juiciness, let your chicken rest after cooking. Use fresh basil pesto for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 flatbread
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe speaks to the heart of home cooking: it’s simple yet bursting with flavor, perfect for busy families. I remember the first time I made it for my kids—each took a bite, their eyes lighting up with surprise and delight. It’s so easy that my little ones often ask to help out in the kitchen, spreading the pesto or sprinkling the cheese. The cheesy, savory goodness brings everyone together, making it a meal worth repeating week after week.
Let’s Cook It Together
Let’s dive into this delightful dish, shall we? With a handful of fresh ingredients, you’ll create a meal that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Gather your family around the kitchen counter and get ready for a cooking adventure that ends with golden-brown flatbreads fresh from the oven.
What You’ll Need
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 pieces of flatbread (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper (feel free to add garlic powder or Italian seasoning for extra flavor).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
- Lay out the flatbreads on a baking sheet. Spread a generous layer of basil pesto over each piece.
- Distribute the sliced chicken evenly over the pesto-covered flatbreads.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken, followed by halved cherry tomatoes.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
- If you want a crispy top, switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Carefully take the flatbreads out of the oven and let them cool for a minute.
- Slice into quarters or halves and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Serve warm with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition Values
- Serving size: 1 flatbread
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
Packed with protein and fiber, this recipe keeps you full longer without feeling heavy.
Perfect Pairings for This Dish
When serving your Pesto Chicken Flatbreads, consider pairing them with a refreshing side salad dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon juice or some roasted vegetables for added nutrition. A chilled glass of lemonade or your favorite sparkling water can complement the flavors beautifully, making for a cozy dinner setting that invites lingering conversation and laughter.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
If you have leftovers (though I can’t guarantee you will!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the flatbreads in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also freeze the flatbreads, wrapped tightly in aluminum foil, for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above.
Chef Betty’s Secrets
- Cooking the Chicken: For maximum juiciness, let your chicken rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, leaving you with ultra-tender slices.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh basil pesto if possible; it truly elevates the dish’s flavor compared to store-bought options. Plus, making it at home is easier than you think!
- Flatbread: You can use store-bought flatbread for convenience, but making your own can be fun and adds a personal touch.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings—add bell peppers, olives, or even artichokes if you have a craving.
- Don’t Skip the Broil: Broiling your flatbread for a minute or two at the end gives you that delightful crispiness that makes each bite irresistible.
Creative Twists to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeño slices to your flatbreads for a bit of heat. It adds an exciting dimension without overwhelming the fresh flavors.
- Veggie Delight: Swap out the chicken for grilled portobello mushrooms or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Cheesy Variations: Experiment with different cheeses—Gruyere or goat cheese can provide an interesting twist that pairs beautifully with the pesto.
FAQs
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, you can! After cooking and cooling your flatbreads, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to a month. Just make sure to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What’s the best substitute for pesto if I don’t have any?
If you’re in a pinch, a homemade spinach and walnut spread can work well, or even just a drizzle of olive oil and garlic can provide a similar flavor base.
How long will this stay fresh?
Pesto Chicken Flatbread is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Can I double the recipe for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe is easily doubled. Just ensure you have enough flatbread on hand and a baking sheet large enough to accommodate everything.
Now that you have the recipe, I hope you cherish making this Pesto Chicken Flatbread with your family, creating memories while enjoying every delicious bite!