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Keto Pesto Chicken Bake - Simple, Flavor-Packed Comfort

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds total)
  • 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade, no added sugar)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional if your pesto is already garlicky)
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, for a bit of color; keep portions small to stay keto-friendly)
  • Fresh basil, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
  2. Season the chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. If using, rub on the minced garlic.
  3. Flatten for even cooking: If your chicken breasts are thick, gently pound them to an even thickness (about 3/4 inch). This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
  4. Add pesto: Spread about 2 tablespoons of pesto over each breast, coating the tops well. Spoon any extra around the sides.
  5. Layer the cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the pesto, then top with Parmesan. The mix gives a stretchy melt and a salty, golden finish.
  6. Optional add-ins: Scatter a few cherry tomato halves around the chicken. Drizzle a touch of lemon juice for brightness, if you like.
  7. Bake: Place the dish on the middle rack and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temp of 165°F (74°C). If you want more browning, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
  8. Rest and garnish: Let it rest for 5 minutes. Spoon any pan juices over the chicken, then garnish with fresh basil.
  9. Serve: Pair with zucchini noodles, roasted broccoli, sautéed spinach, or a simple green salad.