Pesto Chicken Flatbread: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Dinner

This Pesto Chicken Flatbread is a quick and tasty meal that combines tender chicken, creamy pesto, and gooey cheese on a crisp flatbread base. I love how it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but flavorful enough to feel special. The fresh basil and juicy cherry tomatoes give it a bright finish that balances perfectly with the rich cheese and pesto.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it comes together in no time, especially if I use store-bought flatbread and pesto. It’s versatile I can serve it as a main dish, a light lunch, or even cut into smaller pieces for an appetizer. I also love that it’s customizable, so I can add different toppings depending on what I have in the fridge.

Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
4 pieces of flatbread (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. I start by preheating my oven to 400°F.
2. I season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. I cook the chicken for about 6–7 minutes per side, until golden and fully cooked through. Once done, I let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it thinly.
4. I place the flatbreads on a baking sheet and spread a generous layer of pesto over each one.
5. I top them with sliced chicken, mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese.
6. I bake the flatbreads for about 8–10 minutes, until the cheese melts and the edges turn crispy.
7. I remove them from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It usually takes me about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, so the total time is around 30 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I use naan bread instead of flatbread for a softer base. I like swapping mozzarella for provolone or fontina when I want a different flavor. If I feel like adding more veggies, I layer on red onions, spinach, or roasted bell peppers. For a bit of heat, I sprinkle red pepper flakes before baking.

Storage/Reheating

I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I place the flatbread in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. I avoid microwaving because it makes the bread soggy.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?

Yes, I often use shredded rotisserie chicken to make this recipe even quicker.

Can I make this flatbread vegetarian?

Definitely, I skip the chicken and load it with extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or peppers.

What kind of flatbread works best?

I like using store-bought naan, pita, or thin pizza crusts—they all work well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I usually prep the chicken and toppings ahead, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

Is homemade pesto better than store-bought?

I enjoy both, but homemade pesto adds a fresher flavor if I have the time.

Can I grill the flatbread instead of baking?

Yes, grilling gives it a smoky flavor and a crispier texture.

How do I keep the flatbread from getting soggy?

I bake it at a high temperature so the bread stays crisp even with the pesto and toppings.

Can I freeze the flatbread?

I freeze the cooked flatbreads without basil garnish for up to 1 month, then reheat in the oven.

What cheese works well besides mozzarella?

I sometimes use provolone, gouda, or even goat cheese for a different taste.

Can I serve this as an appetizer?

Yes, I slice the flatbread into smaller pieces and serve as finger food.

Conclusion

This Pesto Chicken Flatbread is one of my go-to recipes when I want something delicious and easy. I love how the flavors of pesto, chicken, and cheese come together in a way that feels comforting yet fresh. Whether I serve it for dinner, lunch, or as a party appetizer, it always disappears quickly and leaves everyone satisfied.

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