Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

Name: Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 oz cream cheese; 2 tablespoons basil pesto; 1 egg; 2/3 cup breadcrumb mix; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: November 26, 2025

by Aileen Reed

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in under an hour.
Flavorful Combination: The creamy filling pairs perfectly with the tender chicken, creating a mouthwatering experience.
Versatile Meal: Serve it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that suits any palate.
Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is ideal for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy healthy meals throughout the week.
Low-Carb Option: With minimal carbs, this dish fits perfectly into keto or low-carb diets.

Tools and Preparation

To make Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure success in your cooking journey.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Knife
Cutting board
Mixing bowl
Baking dish
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting and stuffing the chicken breast much easier and safer.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the cream cheese and pesto smoothly before filling the chicken.
Whisk: Helps blend ingredients thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution of flavor in the stuffing.

Ingredients

To prepare Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast, gather the following ingredients:

For the Filling

2 oz cream cheese
2 tablespoons basil pesto
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken

4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
1 egg
2/3 cup breadcrumb mix
1 tablespoon olive oil

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Make Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. 2 oz cream cheese
2. 2 tablespoons basil pesto
3. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Use a whisk to mix these ingredients until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken Breasts

Place each boneless chicken breast on a cutting board.
Use a knife to create a pocket by slicing into each breast horizontally. Be careful not to cut through completely.
Spoon the pesto mixture into each pocket generously.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

In another bowl, beat one egg lightly.
Dip each stuffed chicken breast into the egg mixture.
Roll them in the breadcrumb mix until fully coated.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil in a baking dish.
Place the coated chicken breasts in the dish.
Bake for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 75°C).

Enjoy your Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast as a delicious main course that’s sure to be a hit!

How to Serve Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

Serving Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes, making it versatile for any meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Caprese Salad: Layer ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil for a classic Italian touch.

Add Flavorful Sauces

Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle this sweet and tangy sauce over the chicken for an extra burst of flavor.
Lemon Herb Sauce: A zesty lemon herb sauce can brighten up the dish and enhance its freshness.

Serve with Grains

Quinoa: This protein-packed grain can be served on the side to complement the chicken’s flavors.
Brown Rice Pilaf: A savory brown rice pilaf with herbs adds texture and depth to your meal.

How to Perfect Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

To make the best Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out juicy and flavorful.

Use fresh ingredients: Opt for high-quality basil pesto and fresh chicken breasts to enhance taste.
Pound the chicken: Gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
Seal tightly: Make sure to seal the chicken well after stuffing to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
Preheat your oven: Always preheat your oven before baking for consistent cooking results.
Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps retain juices and flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

Choosing the right sides can elevate your Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast. Here are some fantastic options that pair beautifully with this dish.

Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil and garlic provide a tasty balance.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers crunch and complements the richness of the chicken.
Cauliflower Mash: A creamy alternative to mashed potatoes that is low-carb yet satisfying.
Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges add sweetness and color to your plate.
Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs, veggies, and lemon makes a refreshing side.
Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles create a healthy pasta alternative that pairs well with pesto flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final dish.

Bold Preparation: Skipping the cream cheese softening step can result in a lumpy filling. Always let it come to room temperature for easier mixing.
Bold Overstuffing: Adding too much filling can cause the chicken breasts to burst while cooking. Use just enough pesto and cream cheese mixture to fill each breast without overflow.
Bold Incorrect Temperature: Cooking at too high a temperature can dry out the chicken. Aim for a moderate oven temperature to ensure juicy chicken.
Bold Ignoring Seasoning: Forgetting to season the chicken can lead to bland results. Don’t forget to sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken before cooking.
Bold Not Using a Thermometer: Relying solely on cooking time may leave you with undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store cooked Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast in an airtight container.
It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
They can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Bold Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently, until warm.
Bold Stovetop: Sauté over medium heat in a skillet with a splash of broth until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast.

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

You can definitely substitute turkey or even lamb if you prefer! Just adjust cooking times as necessary.

Is there a vegetarian option for Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast?

While this recipe focuses on chicken, you could use large portobello mushrooms or eggplant slices as an alternative base!

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

What can I serve with Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast?

Pair it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or quinoa for a complete meal that’s both healthy and delicious!

Final Thoughts

Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different herbs or cheeses to suit your taste. Give it a try; your dinner guests will be impressed!

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