Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

Name: Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
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: February 16, 2026

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This recipe can be on your table in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Filling: The combination of cream cheese and basil pesto creates a deliciously creamy and herbaceous stuffing.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for serving with a side salad or roasted vegetables, this dish can fit into various meal plans.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, it’s great for those seeking nutritious meal choices.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Gather these essential items before you start to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Mixing bowl
Baking dish
Meat mallet

Importance of Each Tool

Chef’s knife: A sharp knife allows for precise cutting of chicken breasts and other ingredients, ensuring even stuffing.
Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining the cream cheese and basil pesto thoroughly before adding it to the chicken.
Baking dish: Using an appropriate baking dish ensures even cooking and easy serving of your stuffed chicken.

Ingredients

To make Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast, you will need 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: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, basil pesto, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Using a meat mallet, gently pound each chicken breast to an even thickness. This helps in ensuring they cook evenly.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken Breasts

Place a generous amount of the filling onto one side of each chicken breast. Fold over the other side to enclose the filling securely.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Breasts

In another bowl, beat the egg. Dip each stuffed chicken breast in the egg wash, then coat with the breadcrumb mix, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken Breasts

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place coated chicken breasts in a baking dish drizzled with olive oil. Bake for about 20 minutes or until cooked through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, allow the chicken to rest briefly before slicing into them. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal. Enjoy your Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast!

How to Serve Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

Healthy pesto stuffed chicken breast is a delightful dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Serving this flavorful chicken can elevate your dining experience and impress your guests.

Classic Salad

A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber creates a light and refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy garlic mashed potatoes complement the savory flavors of the chicken, making for a comforting meal.

Quinoa Pilaf

Fluffy quinoa pilaf, mixed with herbs and vegetables, adds a nutritious touch while enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.

Steamed Asparagus

Bright green asparagus, lightly steamed and seasoned, provides a crunchy texture that balances the tenderness of the chicken.

How to Perfect Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

To achieve the best results for your healthy pesto stuffed chicken breast, consider these helpful tips.

Choose the right chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy stuffing and even cooking.
Marinate for flavor: Marinating the chicken in olive oil, salt, and pepper enhances its taste before stuffing.
Ensure proper sealing: Securely seal the stuffed chicken with toothpicks to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
Cook evenly: Use medium heat while cooking to ensure the chicken cooks thoroughly without drying out.
Let it rest: Allow the stuffed chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain its juices for a moist bite.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

Pairing side dishes with healthy pesto stuffed chicken breast can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds color and nutrients to your plate.
Cauliflower Rice: Light and fluffy cauliflower rice is a low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors beautifully.
Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini noodles provide a fun, low-calorie pasta substitute that pairs well with pesto.
Couscous Salad: A chilled couscous salad with lemon dressing adds zesty freshness and complements the warm chicken.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn gives a summery feel to your meal while adding natural sweetness.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice create an attractive side packed with flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

Wrong Cheese Choice: Using the wrong type of cheese can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Stick to cream cheese for a creamy texture that complements pesto well.
Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season your chicken can result in blandness. Always sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken for enhanced flavor.
Overstuffing the Chicken: Stuffing too much filling can cause the chicken to burst during cooking. Aim for a moderate amount of pesto and cream cheese mixture.
Skipping the Egg Wash: Not using an egg wash may lead to breadcrumbs not adhering properly. Brush the chicken with a beaten egg before coating in breadcrumbs.
Not Preheating the Oven: Cooking in a cold oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

Wrap each stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, turkey breasts work well as a substitute for chicken in this recipe, providing similar flavors and textures.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast is perfect for meal prepping as it stores well and reheats easily.

How do I customize my Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the stuffing mixture for added nutrition and flavor.

What can I serve with this stuffed chicken?

Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that complements the flavors of the dish.

Final Thoughts

Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a flavorful, healthy meal that will impress everyone at your dinner table!

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