Baked Pesto Chicken with Fresh Mozzarella & Caprese Salad

Sometimes the simplest flavor pairings are the most satisfying. This dish combines juicy baked chicken with aromatic pesto and creamy mozzarella, finished off with a fresh caprese salad. It’s the kind of dinner that feels indulgent but is still light and refreshing—perfect for a weeknight meal or even a casual dinner with friends.

The warm, cheesy chicken pairs beautifully with the cool, juicy tomatoes and mozzarella in the salad. A sprinkle of pine nuts and fresh arugula brings everything together for a Mediterranean-inspired plate you’ll want to make again and again.

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Ingredients (4 servings)

Chicken

• 1 whole boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 14 ounces / 400 g)
• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 4 tablespoons (60 ml) store-bought pesto (see note)
• 8 ounces (225 g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

Caprese Salad

• 3 large heirloom tomatoes
• 8 ounces (225 g) fresh mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons store-bought pesto
• Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

For Garnish

• 1 handful of fresh arugula
• 3 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slice the chicken breast in half horizontally to make 4 flat pieces. Place them on the sheet pan, season with salt and pepper, and spread each piece with 1 tablespoon of pesto. Top with mozzarella slices. Bake for 25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked (opaque throughout) and the cheese is golden and bubbling.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the caprese salad: Wash and slice the tomatoes and mozzarella. Arrange them alternately in a fan shape on 4 serving plates. Drizzle with olive oil and pesto, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve the baked chicken with the caprese salad. Garnish with fresh arugula and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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Nutrition Facts (per serving, approx.):

• Calories: ~420 kcal
• Fat: ~31 g
• Protein: ~28 g
• Carbohydrates: ~6 g (net)

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Note

If buying store-bought pesto, check the label to ensure it’s sugar-free. For an even fresher taste, you can make your own pesto at home.

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✨ This dish is a celebration of Italian-inspired flavors, rich, creamy, fresh, and vibrant. It’s easy to make, looks beautiful on the plate, and is guaranteed to impress.