Jump to Recipe Print Recipe“After a long day, I found myself staring at the fridge, pondering what to rustle up for dinner; the clock was ticking and takeout just wasn’t going to cut it. Enter the Pesto Chicken Flatbread! This dish combines the vibrant, aromatic flavors of fresh basil pesto with juicy chicken on a crispy flatbread base, making it a quick and easy meal solution that will impress your family or guests. Not only is it versatile – you can swap in your favorite veggies for a delightful vegetarian twist – but it also strikes that perfect balance between satisfying and refreshing, elevating your weeknight dinners to something truly special. Are you ready to unveil a delightful new favorite in your kitchen?” Why Is This Pesto Chicken Flatbread Special? Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence. Flavor Explosion: The fresh basil pesto brings a burst of Italian flavor that elevates the entire meal, perfectly complementing the juicy chicken and ooey-gooey cheese. Versatile Toppings: Want to switch it up? You can easily customize with your favorite veggies or even use it as a base for your own pizza creations, much like our Cowboy Butter Chicken or Butter Chicken Comfort. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this flatbread is sure to impress everyone at the table! Perfectly Textured: The contrast of crispy edges and a soft center creates an irresistible texture that’s satisfying to bite into. Leftovers, if any!: Don’t worry about wasting food. This dish stores wonderfully in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week! Pesto Chicken Flatbread Ingredients For the Chicken 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The main protein, you can substitute with grilled vegetables for a delightful vegetarian option. 2 tablespoons olive oil – Ideal for cooking chicken to keep it moist; avocado or vegetable oil works well too. Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential seasonings to enhance flavor. For the Flatbread 4 pieces of flatbread – Forms the crispy base; feel free to use store-bought or make your own for extra freshness. 1 cup fresh basil pesto – The star ingredient that gives this Pesto Chicken Flatbread its vibrant flavor; store-bought or homemade is perfect! For the Toppings 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Deliciously gooey, you can swap it out for cheddar or provolone if desired. 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Adds a sweet touch and a pop of color; any small tomato variety will do! 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Provides extra flavor depth and aids in browning; nutritional yeast is a great vegan substitute. Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional) – Adds a lovely touch of freshness and appeal to the presentation. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pesto Chicken Flatbread Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is essential for achieving that golden, crispy finish on your Pesto Chicken Flatbread. While the oven is heating, you can gather your ingredients and prepare your workspace for a seamless cooking experience. Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or Italian seasoning. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, ready to sear your chicken to perfection. Step 3: Cook the Chicken Once the olive oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet. Sear each side for 6-7 minutes until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You’ll know they’re ready when they are beautifully browned and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes. Step 4: Slice the Chicken After the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips, ensuring they remain juicy and tender. This step not only enhances the presentation of your Pesto Chicken Flatbread but also ensures that each bite is filled with delicious chicken goodness. Step 5: Prepare the Flatbreads Grab a baking sheet and lay out your four pieces of flatbread. Spread a generous layer of fresh basil pesto evenly across each piece, creating a flavorful base for your toppings. Make sure to cover the flatbreads thoroughly, as the pesto enhances the entire dish. Step 6: Layer the Toppings Distribute the sliced chicken evenly over the pesto-spread flatbreads. Next, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken, and add the halved cherry tomatoes for a touch of sweetness and color. Don’t be shy—let those toppings shine! Step 7: Add Parmesan and Bake Sprinkle a bit of grated Parmesan cheese over each flatbread to elevate the flavor and achieve that gorgeous golden top. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the cheese melts beautifully and the edges of the flatbreads are perfectly golden. Step 8: Broil for Extra Crispiness For an extra crispy finish, you can switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Just keep a close watch during this time, as broiling can quickly go from perfect to burnt. You’ll want the cheese to bubble and turn golden brown without overcooking. Step 9: Slice and Serve Once baked, let your Pesto Chicken Flatbread cool for a couple of minutes. Slice them into pieces, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve warm. Each slice is a delightful combination of crispy flatbread, savory chicken, and rich cheese, perfect for any occasion! Expert Tips for Pesto Chicken Flatbread Cook Chicken Right: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to avoid dryness. A meat thermometer can help! Watch the Broil: Keep a close eye while broiling the flatbread; it can go from golden to charred very quickly. Just a minute or two can make a big difference. Pesto Variations: Mix up your pesto chicken flatbread by trying out different pestos, like sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto, for a unique twist. Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like oregano or thyme to your toppings for an extra flavor kick. DIY Flatbread: For an even more authentic touch, consider making your own flatbread. It’s simpler than you think and adds a lovely homemade feel! Perfect Pairings: Serve your flatbread with a light side salad or a dipping sauce like ranch or balsamic reduction to round out the meal! Make Ahead Options Pesto Chicken Flatbread is a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken up to 24 hours in advance by cooking and slicing it ahead of time. Simply store the sliced chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its juiciness. Additionally, you can assemble the flatbreads by spreading pesto and layering cheese and tomatoes, then refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just pop the assembled flatbreads in the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This way, you can enjoy restaurant-quality Pesto Chicken Flatbread with minimal effort on busy weeknights! How to Store and Freeze Pesto Chicken Flatbread Fridge: Store leftover Pesto Chicken Flatbread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Freezer: If you want to save for later, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. This helps retain that delightful texture. Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the flatbreads topped with ingredients, cover, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking for a quick meal solution! What to Serve with Pesto Chicken Flatbread As you indulge in the vibrant flavors of this crisp and savory flatbread, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your meal. Garlicky Green Beans: Sautéed with olive oil and minced garlic, these green beans add a fresh crunch that complements the rich flavors of the flatbread. A sprinkle of lemon juice brightens the dish beautifully. Caprese Salad: A classic mix of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction adds a refreshing touch, echoing the herbaceous tones of the pesto. This salad serves as a light, palate-cleansing side. Creamy Coleslaw: With its crunchy cabbage and creamy dressing, coleslaw creates a satisfying contrast to the crispy flatbread, making every bite even more enjoyable. Italian Antipasto Platter: A colorful assortment of olives, cured meats, and marinated veggies offers a beautiful presentation that excites the palate before the main event. It’s perfect for sharing and adds a delightful array of flavors. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection enhances the dish with a smoky sweetness, adding a wholesome touch that balances out the richness of the flatbread. Sparkling Lemonade: The sweet and tangy notes of sparkling lemonade refresh the palate, making it an ideal drink to accompany your flavorful meal. It’s light, fizzy, and oh-so-inviting! Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, consider a light and airy chocolate mousse that provides a luxurious finish to your meal, leaving you and your guests feeling satisfied and content. Pesto Chicken Flatbread Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and make this Pesto Chicken Flatbread your very own! Vegetarian: Swap chicken for grilled vegetables or tofu to create a delicious plant-based alternative. Colorful peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms work beautifully – they add both flavor and texture! Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flatbreads or corn tortillas to cater to those avoiding gluten. You’ll still enjoy a crispy, satisfying base without compromising on taste. Cheese Lovers: If you’re a cheese enthusiast, mix in a blend of cheeses like gouda or feta for an even richer flavor profile. The combination of melting cheeses will delight your palate! Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a kick of heat. This little adjustment will elevate the flavor to a whole new level, perfect for those who love a bit of spice! Nut-Free Pesto: If you have nut allergies, feel free to make a nut-free pesto using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of pine nuts. You’ll still capture those vibrant flavors! Pesto Alternatives: Experiment with different spreads like sun-dried tomato pesto or olive tapenade. Each twist brings its own delightful notes to the dish and keeps dinner exciting. Add Greens: Toss fresh arugula or baby spinach on top just before serving for an added freshness and nutritional boost. It’s a simple way to sneak in some greens! Use Leftover Proteins: Got any leftover grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken? Simply shred it up and use it in this flatbread instead of cooking fresh chicken. A great time-saver! With such customizable options, your Pesto Chicken Flatbread can be made anew with each delightful twist. Serve alongside a light salad or a dip for a complete meal – perhaps a lovely dressing like balsamic vinaigrette to drizzle, just like with our Chicken and Broccoli Savory! Pesto Chicken Flatbread Recipe FAQs What type of chicken is best for Pesto Chicken Flatbread? Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe due to their texture and ability to cook evenly. If you want a vegetarian variation, consider grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for a delightful alternative. How do I store leftover Pesto Chicken Flatbread? You can store leftover Pesto Chicken Flatbread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to maintain its crispy texture. Can Pesto Chicken Flatbread be frozen? Yes! For freezing, I suggest wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until warm and crispy. What should I do if my chicken turns out dry? To prevent dry chicken in future recipes, always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer. Consider giving your chicken a quick brine before cooking or using a marinade for extra moisture. Additionally, allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain juices. Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe? The main allergens present include dairy (mozzarella and Parmesan) and gluten (flatbread). If you’re making this for someone with allergies, try using dairy-free cheese alternatives and gluten-free flatbreads. Always check labels to ensure that the ingredients are allergy-safe! Can I make Pesto Chicken Flatbread in advance? Certainly! You can prepare the flatbreads topped with pesto, chicken, and cheese a day in advance. Cover them with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great time-saver for weeknight dinners or gatherings! Pesto Chicken Flatbread: A Crispy, Flavorful Dinner Delight Pesto Chicken Flatbread blends fresh basil pesto, juicy chicken, and crispy flatbread for a quick, delightful dinner that's sure to impress. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 slicesCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts Substitute with grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.2 tablespoons olive oil Can substitute with avocado or vegetable oil.Salt and pepper Essential seasonings to enhance flavor.For the Flatbread4 pieces flatbread Use store-bought or homemade for freshness.1 cup fresh basil pesto Store-bought or homemade is perfect.For the Toppings1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Can substitute with cheddar or provolone.1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Any small tomato variety will do.1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast is a vegan substitute.Fresh basil leaves For garnish (optional). Equipment OvenSkilletBaking sheet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to crisp the flatbread.Pat the chicken breasts dry, season them with salt and pepper, and heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.Sear the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked to 165°F (75°C). Remove and rest for 5 minutes.Slice the rested chicken into thin strips.Spread a generous layer of fresh basil pesto over each flatbread.Evenly distribute the sliced chicken over the flatbreads, followed by mozzarella cheese and cherry tomatoes.Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over each flatbread and bake for 10-12 minutes until cheese is melted and edges are golden.Optionally, broil for the last 1-2 minutes for added crispiness, watching closely.Slice into pieces, garnish with fresh basil, and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 5mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Flatbreads can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for 24 hours before baking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
