There’s something wonderfully satisfying about a home-cooked meal that brings all the flavors together with minimal fuss. Picture this: tender Hasselback chicken, beautifully sliced to cradle creamy mozzarella, zesty sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with luscious pesto. This dish not only looks impressive but also delivers on taste, making it a perfect centerpiece for any weeknight dinner.
After a busy day chasing after deadlines, I frequently find myself craving something comfortingly delicious yet healthy. This Hasselback Chicken Traybake fits the bill perfectly. At just over 300 calories per serving, it manages to be a guilt-free indulgence you can whip up in no time. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve a family or scale down for an intimate dinner for two.
Join me as we dive into this easy, flavorful culinary creation that will elevate your home-cooked meals, proving that healthy eating can indeed be a delight!
Why will you love this pesto chicken?
Simplicity at Its Best: This Hasselback Chicken Traybake requires minimal prep—just a few slices and a drizzle of pesto, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy mozzarella, zesty sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil creates a mouthwatering flavor profile everyone will love.
Healthy Indulgence: At just over 300 calories per serving, this dish offers a guilt-free option without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.
Versatile Options: Easily double or halve the recipe to cater to your family size, making it adaptable for any occasion.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Impress your guests at dinner parties or family gatherings with this visually stunning and delicious meal that’s sure to be a hit!
Get ready to enjoy a wholesome and satisfying dish that will elevate your home cooking!
Pesto Chicken Ingredients
• Discover what you need for a delightful dish!
For the Chicken
- Skinless Chicken Breasts – The main protein source; feel free to switch to thighs for extra flavor and juiciness.
- Mozzarella (thinly sliced) – Adds creamy goodness and binds flavors beautifully; provolone or gouda can make for delightful substitutes.
- Sun-dried Tomatoes (sliced) – These little gems provide a tangy punch; fresh tomatoes are a nice alternative, just adjust the baking time.
- Basil (handful leaves) – Fresh basil enhances the flavor exponentially; if dried is your only option, just be cautious as it will change the taste.
For the Drizzle
- Olive Oil – Such a simple addition that brings moisture and flavor; try avocado oil for a different twist.
- Fresh Pesto (4 tbsp) – The star of our dish that ties everything together; homemade or store-bought works wonderfully for convenience.
With these simple ingredients, you’re just moments away from creating your new favorite pesto chicken dish!
How to Make Pesto Chicken Traybake
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Preheat the Oven: Start by setting your oven to 200°C (fan 180°C/gas 6). This is the perfect temperature for achieving a beautifully baked chicken.
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Slash the Chicken: Take your skinless chicken breasts and make slashes about 2 cm apart. Be sure to stop two-thirds of the way through—this will keep them juicy and allow the flavors to seep in.
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Stuff with Goodness: Into each slit, insert a slice of mozzarella, a sun-dried tomato, and a basil leaf. This combo promises a burst of flavor with every bite!
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Season and Drizzle: Place the stuffed chicken in a baking tray. Season these beauties with salt and pepper, then drizzle olive oil all over to add some moisture and flavor.
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Bake to Perfection: Slide your baking tray into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese has melted beautifully.
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Add Final Touches: Once cooked, drizzle some fresh pesto over the chicken and sprinkle with additional basil leaves to take the flavors to the next level.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your delicious traybake alongside a refreshing green salad, pasta, or roasted potatoes for a fabulous meal that will impress everyone!
Optional: For extra crunch, serve with a side of crusty bread.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pesto Chicken Variations
Customize your dish with these exciting twists that will tantalize your taste buds!
- Turkey Swap: Use turkey breasts instead of chicken for a leaner protein that remains juicy and delicious.
- Cheese Variety: Swap mozzarella for creamy goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist that adds depth to the flavor.
- Herb Infusions: Top with fresh thyme or oregano instead of basil for a delightful aroma and an herbaceous spin on your dish.
- Veggie Boost: Add sliced bell peppers or zucchini to the traybake for extra nutrition and a pop of color. They roast beautifully alongside the chicken.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper into the stuffing for that added heat to wake up your palate.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some pine nuts or slivered almonds on top before serving for a wonderful crunch and nutty taste.
- Creamy Base: Instead of just pesto, try blending in a bit of ricotta or cream cheese to the chicken pockets for an extra creamy dimension.
- Balsamic Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of balsamic reduction after baking for a sweet and sticky contrast that elevates the dish beautifully.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to make this pesto chicken traybake truly your own!
How to Store and Freeze Pesto Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftover pesto chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to retain its freshness and juiciness.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy your pesto chicken later, freeze the cooked dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes until hot, ensuring the chicken remains moist.
Make Ahead Options
These Hasselback Chicken Traybake with Pesto and Mozzarella are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the chicken and stuff it with mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil up to 24 hours in advance, then cover it tightly and refrigerate to keep everything fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious pesto chicken, simply drizzle with olive oil, season, and bake as instructed. This not only saves you time on busy evenings but also ensures your meal is just as flavorful and juicy. To maintain the quality, reheat gently in the oven to avoid drying out the chicken, bringing the delightful aromas back to life!
What to Serve with Hasselback Chicken Traybake with Pesto, Mozzarella, and Sun-dried Tomatoes?
Treat your loved ones to a full meal experience with delightful sides that complement your flavorful traybake.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery, smooth potatoes soak up the wonderful juices from the chicken, creating a comforting and satisfying bite.
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Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies, such as zucchini and bell peppers, will add a sweet and savory crunch, making your plate colorful and nutritious.
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Garlic Bread: A perfectly toasted slice of garlic bread brings warmth and a delightful chewiness, perfect for scooping up the melted cheese and sauce.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken, enhancing your dining experience with a light, zesty touch.
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Pasta with Olive Oil: Lightly tossed with olive oil and herbs, a side of pasta adds heartiness without overpowering the main dish.
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Grilled Asparagus: These tender, charred spears will elevate your meal, adding a slight smokiness and vibrant flavor that pairs beautifully with the pesto.
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Lemonade Spritzer: Pair your dish with a citrusy lemonade spritzer for a refreshing, energizing drink that complements the herbaceous flavors of your meal.
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Chocolate Mousse: Consider an indulgent chocolate mousse for dessert; the richness will be a perfect finish after savoring the savory chicken.
Expert Tips for Pesto Chicken
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Mind the Slashes: Ensure you don’t cut all the way through the chicken to keep it moist and flavorful.
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Even Thickness: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking. Uneven pieces can result in some parts being overcooked.
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Use a Thermometer: A meat thermometer is essential—make sure the chicken reaches at least 75°C for safe consumption.
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Cheese Swap: Don’t hesitate to swap mozzarella for provolone or gouda if you want to mix up the flavors in your pesto chicken.
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Herb Enhancements: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for a delightful twist and extra depth in flavor.
Embrace these simple tips to become a pro at making this delightful pesto chicken traybake!
Pesto Chicken Traybake Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting chicken breasts?
Absolutely! When picking chicken breasts, look for those that are plump, have a smooth texture, and are pale pink in color. Avoid any with dark spots or an off-putting smell. If you can, purchase organic or free-range for optimal flavor and quality!
How should I store leftover pesto chicken?
Very simply! Store any leftover pesto chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors in your fridge.
Can I freeze pesto chicken for later?
Yes, you can! After cooking, let the pesto chicken cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, wrapping it tightly. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label it with the date so you know when it was frozen.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover pesto chicken?
To reheat, remove the chicken from the fridge and allow it to reach room temperature for about 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F), place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil to keep moisture in, and reheat for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. A meat thermometer can help you ensure it reaches at least 75°C (165°F).
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you or your loved ones have dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free pasta or baked vegetables as sides. For those with dairy allergies, substitute mozzarella with a lactose-free cheese or try a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream. Always review your ingredients to ensure they align with your dietary needs.
How can I adjust the recipe for smaller or larger servings?
The beauty of this pesto chicken traybake lies in its versatility! Simply double or halve the amount of chicken and adjust the amounts of mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and pesto proportionally. Keep the baking time roughly the same, but do check for doneness as it may change slightly based on thickness and portion sizes.
Pesto Chicken Traybake: Quick, Healthy Family Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan 180°C/gas 6).
- Make slashes about 2 cm apart in the chicken breasts, stopping two-thirds of the way through.
- Insert a slice of mozzarella, a sun-dried tomato, and a basil leaf into each slit.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then drizzle olive oil over the top.
- Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until cooked through and cheese has melted.
- Drizzle fresh pesto over the chicken and sprinkle with additional basil leaves.
- Serve alongside a green salad, pasta, or roasted potatoes.