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Flavorful Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe with Mozzarella and Sun-Dried Tomato

pesto stuffed chicken breast - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for juicy chicken breasts stuffed with basil pesto, fresh mozzarella, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, perfect for a comforting yet fresh Italian-inspired meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (68 ounces each)
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced or torn
  • 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the thickest part without cutting all the way through. Pound to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch if needed.
  3. In a small bowl, mix pesto, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic.
  4. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the pesto mixture inside each butterflied chicken breast. Add mozzarella slices on top of the pesto mixture. Fold the chicken back over and press gently to seal.
  5. Secure the chicken breasts with toothpicks if needed.
  6. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Remove from oven and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 5 minutes.
  9. Remove toothpicks, garnish with fresh basil if desired, slice carefully, and serve.

Notes

Do not overstuff the chicken breasts to prevent filling leakage. Searing before baking locks in moisture and flavor. Let the chicken rest after baking to keep it juicy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition

Keywords: pesto stuffed chicken, mozzarella chicken, sun-dried tomato chicken, easy chicken recipe, Italian chicken breast, weeknight dinner, stuffed chicken breast