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: January 13, 2026

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Flavorful Filling: The combination of cream cheese and basil pesto creates a rich and delicious stuffing that will impress your guests.
Versatile Dish: Pair it with salads, vegetables, or grains for a complete meal tailored to your preferences.
Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with protein and made with wholesome ingredients, this dish supports a healthy lifestyle.
Meal Prep Friendly: Cook multiple servings at once for easy reheating throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the necessary tools before you begin.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Sharp knife
Cutting board
Mixing bowl
Baking dish
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when preparing the chicken breasts, making stuffing easier.
Mixing bowl: Provides enough space to combine the filling ingredients thoroughly.
Baking dish: Ideal for cooking the stuffed chicken evenly without crowding.

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 and well combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Use a sharp knife to create a pocket in each chicken breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken Breasts

Spoon the prepared filling into each chicken pocket. Use toothpicks if needed to secure the opening.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

In another bowl, whisk together the egg. Dip each stuffed chicken breast into the egg mixture followed by coating them in breadcrumb mix.

Step 5: Bake

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

Enjoy your Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast as a flavorful meal that’s sure to please!

How to Serve Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

Healthy pesto stuffed chicken breast is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it with a variety of accompaniments to enhance its flavors and nutritional value.

Fresh Salad

A light, refreshing salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette pairs well with the rich flavors of the chicken.

Quinoa Pilaf

Fluffy quinoa pilaf with vegetables adds a hearty texture and complements the pesto beautifully.

Roasted Vegetables

Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots bring color and nutrition to your plate.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a comforting side that balances the savory notes of the stuffed chicken.

Grilled Asparagus

Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds a crisp, fresh element that brightens the dish while being low in calories.

How to Perfect Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

Perfecting your healthy pesto stuffed chicken breast can elevate your cooking game. Here are some helpful tips:

Choose quality ingredients: Using fresh basil pesto enhances flavor. Look for pesto made with high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs.
Pound the chicken breasts: Gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking and easier stuffing.
Season generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper when seasoning your chicken. Proper seasoning ensures that each bite is flavorful.
Use a meat thermometer: Ensure your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety without drying it out.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

Pairing side dishes with healthy pesto stuffed chicken breast can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet nutritious side, steamed broccoli adds fiber and vitamins without many calories.
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative to rice, cauliflower rice absorbs flavors well and keeps your meal light.
Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges offer natural sweetness and pair nicely with savory dishes like stuffed chicken.
Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini makes for a fun, gluten-free pasta alternative that’s perfect alongside rich flavors.
Couscous Salad: A fluffy couscous salad mixed with herbs, lemon juice, and diced vegetables complements the dish’s richness well.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add vibrant colors and flavors to your meal.
Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf garnished with herbs provides a hearty base that works wonderfully with pesto flavors.
Mixed Grain Bowl: A bowl filled with various grains and veggies offers texture and nutrients, rounding out your meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season both the chicken and the filling.
Overstuffing the chicken: Adding too much filling can cause the chicken to burst while cooking. Aim for a generous, but controlled amount of pesto mixture.
Using cold ingredients: Cold cream cheese will not mix well with pesto. Allow it to sit at room temperature for easier blending.
Not preheating the oven: If you put your chicken in a cold oven, it may cook unevenly. Always preheat your oven before baking.
Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken right away lets juices escape. Let it rest for a few minutes after baking for juicy results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

Wrap each stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap.
Place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a covered skillet with a splash of broth or water until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute turkey or even lamb if desired, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

What is a good alternative to cream cheese?

You can use ricotta cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you’re looking for different flavors or dietary preferences.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.

What sides pair well with Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast?

Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, salad, or quinoa for a balanced meal.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy lean protein packed with flavor. It’s versatile and allows customization—add sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to the filling if you like! Try it today for an easy yet impressive dinner option.

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