If you're looking for a quick,
flavorful, and protein-packed meal, this Chicken with Mozzarella and Pesto is
the perfect choice. The tender chicken breast, topped with a generous amount of
tangy tomato pesto, is baked to perfection and finished with a layer of melted
mozzarella and roasted cherry tomatoes. Served with fluffy boiled rice, this
dish combines rich flavors in a balanced, nutritious way. It's ideal for a
weeknight dinner or when you're craving something special yet easy to prepare!
Ingredients:
150g chicken breast
50g light mozzarella, grated or thinly sliced
10g tomato pesto
100g cherry tomatoes, halved
Salt, pepper, ground paprika (to taste)
60g boiled rice (for serving)
Fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Season the chicken breast on
both sides with salt, pepper, and ground paprika. Make a small cut on the top
of the chicken to help the pesto spread more evenly.
Apply Pesto and Bake:
Rub the tomato pesto thoroughly over the chicken breast, ensuring
it gets into the cut. Place the chicken in a baking dish and bake in the
preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Add Mozzarella and Tomatoes:
After 20 minutes of baking,
take the chicken out of the oven. Add the mozzarella on top of the chicken, and
scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around it.
Final Bake:
Return the dish to the oven for another 10 minutes, or until the
mozzarella is melted and the cherry tomatoes are slightly roasted.
Serve:
Serve the chicken with boiled rice on the side. Optionally,
garnish with freshly chopped basil to enhance the flavors and presentation.
Nutritional Information (Per
Serving):
Calories: 491 kcal
Protein: 46g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fats: 12g