Pesto Chicken Flatbread: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Dinner

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and impressive dinner, this Pesto Chicken Flatbread is the perfect choice. Combining juicy chicken, vibrant pesto, fresh tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese on a crisp flatbread base, it’s a meal that looks gourmet but is effortlessly easy to make.

Flatbreads are incredibly versatile and serve as a canvas for endless flavor combinations. In this recipe, the star is basil pesto, which brings a fragrant, herbaceous note that perfectly complements the savory chicken and cheese. The addition of cherry tomatoes and Parmesan adds freshness, texture, and depth of flavor, while optional fresh basil leaves make the dish visually stunning and aromatic.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, hosting friends, or craving a simple yet elegant dinner, this Pesto Chicken Flatbread recipe is designed to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Flavor-Packed: Savory chicken, fresh basil pesto, and melty cheese create a delicious combination.
• Customizable: Add vegetables, different cheeses, or use homemade flatbread.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults alike.
• Light Yet Satisfying: Crispy flatbread keeps it lighter than a traditional pizza.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Tender, juicy protein for the flatbread.
• 1 cup fresh basil pesto – Store-bought or homemade; serves as the flavorful base.
• 4 pieces of flatbread – A crisp and convenient base; can be store-bought or homemade.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melty, gooey, and satisfying.
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Adds freshness, color, and a burst of flavor.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty depth.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For cooking the chicken and brushing the flatbread.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential seasonings for the chicken.
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional) – Enhances aroma and presentation.

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and golden brown. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

Tip: Resting the chicken ensures it stays juicy when sliced.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 3: Assemble the Flatbreads

Place the flatbreads on the prepared baking sheet. Spread about 1/4 cup of pesto evenly over each flatbread. Layer the sliced chicken evenly on top. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and halved cherry tomatoes over the chicken. Finally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Tip: For extra crispiness, brush the edges of the flatbread lightly with olive oil.

Step 4: Bake the Flatbreads

Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Slice into portions and serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil in the pesto or as garnish elevates flavor.
• Thinly Slice Chicken: Ensures even distribution and easy bites.
• Crispy Flatbread: For extra crispiness, pre-toast flatbreads for 2–3 minutes before assembling.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to mix mozzarella with fontina or provolone for extra richness.
• Customize Toppings: Add olives, artichokes, or roasted red peppers for variety.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side Salad: A simple arugula or mixed greens salad pairs perfectly.
• Light Dinner: Serve with roasted vegetables or a small bowl of soup.
• Party Appetizer: Cut into smaller pieces for a shareable finger food.
• Kid-Friendly: Top with extra cheese and mild toppings for picky eaters.

Nutritional Snapshot (Approx. per serving)

Based on 4 servings

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 32 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sodium: 750 mg

(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on flatbread brand and type of pesto used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought or homemade flatbread?

Yes! Either works. Homemade flatbread gives a rustic flavor, while store-bought flatbread is quick and convenient.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will be juicier and more flavorful. Adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a few extra minutes.

3. Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes. Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.

4. Can I freeze flatbreads?

Assembled flatbreads are best baked fresh. You can freeze cooked flatbreads and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until warmed.

5. How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe is mild. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Fresh mozzarella, fontina, provolone, or a blend works beautifully. Parmesan adds extra depth and a slightly nutty flavor.

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Conclusion

This Pesto Chicken Flatbread recipe is the ultimate quick, flavorful, and family-friendly dinner. Juicy chicken, aromatic basil pesto, melty mozzarella, and sweet cherry tomatoes create a combination that is both comforting and elegant.

Perfect for weeknights, casual dinners, or entertaining friends, this recipe proves that you can have a gourmet-style meal on the table in less than 30 minutes. Add a side salad, sprinkle fresh basil on top, and enjoy a meal that’s fast, easy, and irresistibly delicious.

Crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor—this Pesto Chicken Flatbread is sure to become a dinner favorite!