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Dorothy Thomas

Trader Joe's Pesto Chicken Recipe

A quick, flavorful, and easy weeknight dinner featuring juicy chicken breasts smothered in Trader Joe’s famous basil pesto, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Ready in under 30 minutes!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup Trader Joe’s Basil Pesto
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • for garnish fresh basil or red pepper flakes

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet
  • Meat mallet (optional, for even thickness)
  • Tongs
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Pound chicken breasts to even thickness (about ½-inch thick) for even cooking. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Add chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
  5. Spread Trader Joe’s pesto evenly over each chicken breast.
  6. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
  7. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 5–7 minutes until cheese melts and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
  8. Garnish with fresh basil or red pepper flakes. Serve with pasta, salad, or roasted veggies.

Notes

  • Substitutions: Use Kirkland or homemade pesto if Trader Joe’s isn’t available.
  • For Crispy Cheese: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
  • Meal Prep: Stores well in the fridge for 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.