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Chicken with Goat Cheese and Sun Dried Tomato Pesto

A delightful dish that combines rich goat cheese and tangy sun-dried tomato pesto for a comforting meal perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 pounds thin cut chicken breasts Approximately 4 breasts; ensures even cooking.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Adds flavor and helps seasonings stick.
  • to taste kosher salt Enhances the chicken's natural flavor.
  • to taste pepper Enhances the chicken's natural flavor.
  • to taste crushed red pepper flakes Brings a hint of heat.
  • optional seasoning blend For extra flavor.
For the Toppings
  • 4 ounces goat cheese Spreadable or crumbled; adds a rich finish.
  • 1 jar sun dried tomato pesto Packed with concentrated flavor.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully for a satisfying texture.
  • optional fresh basil leaves For garnish and added flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place the thin cut chicken breasts in a casserole dish.
  3. Drizzle both sides with olive oil, ensuring they are well-coated.
  4. Generously sprinkle kosher salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes over both sides. Add any optional seasoning blend if desired.
Adding the Toppings
  1. Spread or sprinkle the goat cheese over the chicken.
  2. Spoon the sun-dried tomato pesto over the chicken and goat cheese.
  3. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
Baking
  1. Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serving
  1. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top before serving, if desired.
  2. Serve with buttered pasta or fettuccine alfredo.

Notes

Use room temperature goat cheese for easier spreading. Consider making homemade pesto for extra flavor. Adjust the heat level by reducing spicy ingredients if necessary.