Easy Pesto Chicken Flatbread Recipe – Dinner’s Never Been Better

Pesto Chicken Flatbread is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary revelation that transforms your weeknight dinner into an extraordinary experience.

Imagine the vibrant aroma of fresh basil pesto mingling with tender, savory chicken, all baked to perfection on a delightfully crispy yet chewy flatbread base.

This dish truly hits all the right notes, offering a symphony of flavors and textures that tantalize the taste buds and leave you utterly satisfied. While flatbreads boast a rich lineage dating back to ancient civilizations, serving as a staple across diverse cultures from the Mediterranean to the Middle East, and pesto itself hails from the picturesque Ligurian region of Italy, this modern fusion brings together timeless traditions with contemporary ease. It’s a testament to how simple, quality ingredients can create something truly spectacular.

I’ve found that the sheer simplicity and incredible flavor profile are why so many, myself included, adore this Pesto Chicken Flatbread. It’s the ultimate solution for those busy evenings when you crave something gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner, a stylish appetizer for guests, or a delightful solo treat, this recipe delivers on all fronts, promising a delicious and memorable dining experience every single time.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• Flatbreads: 2 large (approximately 10-12 inches in diameter) or 4 individual-sized flatbreads. You can use pre-made naan bread, pita bread, or a simple pizza dough rolled thinly. I find the thicker, chewier texture of naan works wonderfully for holding all our delicious toppings.
• Chicken Breasts: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 to 1.5 pounds total). Look for breasts of a similar size to ensure even cooking.
• Pesto: ½ cup of basil pesto. You can certainly use a good quality store-bought pesto to save time, and I often do when I’m in a hurry! However, for the ultimate fresh flavor, I’ll also share my simple homemade pesto recipe below.
• Mozzarella Cheese: 1.5 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese. Fresh mozzarella pearls can also be used, but shredded will give you a more even melt.
• Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving. Freshly grated makes such a difference compared to the pre-grated kind.
• Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved. These add a burst of sweetness and acidity that brightens up the whole dish.
• Red Onion: ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion. For a milder flavor, you can soak the slices in a bowl of ice water for 10-15 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
• Pine Nuts: 2 tablespoons pine nuts, lightly toasted. This adds a lovely crunch and nutty depth.
• Fresh Basil: A handful of fresh basil leaves, for garnish. Tearing them just before serving releases their aromatic oils.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided.
• Seasonings for Chicken:
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional, but I love the earthy notes it adds)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional additions for serving: Red pepper flakes for a little kick, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Homemade Basil Pesto (Optional, but highly recommended!)

If you’re feeling ambitious and want to elevate your Pesto Chicken Flatbread to the next level, making your own pesto is incredibly rewarding and surprisingly simple. Here’s what you’ll need and how to do it:

Pesto Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed (about 2 large bunches)
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ⅓ cup pine nuts, lightly toasted (reserve 2 tablespoons for topping the flatbreads)
• 2-3 cloves garlic, peeled and roughly chopped (depending on your love for garlic!)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (this really brightens the flavor and helps prevent oxidation)

Pesto Instructions:

1. Prepare the Basil: First, ensure your basil leaves are thoroughly washed and completely dry. Any excess water can make your pesto watery. I usually gently pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In the bowl of a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Pulse several times until the ingredients are finely chopped and well combined. You’re looking for a coarse, crumbly mixture at this stage.
3. Slowly Add Olive Oil: With the food processor running on low, slowly drizzle in the ½ cup of extra virgin olive oil through the feed tube. This slow addition helps emulsify the pesto, giving it that classic creamy, smooth texture. Continue processing until the pesto reaches your desired consistency – some people prefer it a bit chunkier, others very smooth.
4. Season and Adjust: Once the oil is incorporated, stop the food processor. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula. Add the fresh lemon juice and pulse a few more times to combine. Taste the pesto and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want a little more salt, pepper, or lemon juice. Remember, this homemade pesto is robust and full of flavor, making it the star of our Pesto Chicken Flatbread.
5. Store (if making ahead): If you’re not using it immediately, transfer the pesto to an airtight container. Pour a thin layer of olive oil over the top to prevent browning and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze pesto in ice cube trays for longer storage.

Preparing the Chicken:

Having perfectly cooked and seasoned chicken is key to a truly delicious Pesto Chicken Flatbread. Here’s how I like to prepare mine:

1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps with browning. In a small bowl, combine ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon dried oregano (if using), ¼ teaspoon salt, and ⅛ teaspoon black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture generously over both sides of the chicken breasts, making sure they are well coated.
2. Choose Your Cooking Method (Pan-Sear or Bake):
   • Pan-Searing (my preferred method for quick flavor): Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and just starting to smoke, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the hot pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This browning is crucial for developing deep, savory flavors that will shine through in your Pesto Chicken Flatbread.
   • Baking (a hands-off option): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The exact time will depend on the thickness of your chicken breasts.
3. Rest and Shred/Dice: Once cooked, transfer the chicken breasts to a cutting board. Cover them loosely with foil and let them rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This resting period is incredibly important as it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. After resting, you can either shred the chicken using two forks or dice it into bite-sized pieces. I personally love the texture of shredded chicken on my flatbreads. Set aside.

Assembling the Pesto Chicken Flatbreads:

Now comes the fun part – putting everything together! This is where our Pesto Chicken Flatbread truly begins to take shape.

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet (or two, depending on the size of your flatbreads) with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes for easier cleanup. If you’re using larger flatbreads, you might need to bake them one at a time or use two baking sheets.
2. Prepare the Flatbread Base: Lay your flatbreads on the prepared baking sheet(s). If your flatbreads are particularly thick (like some naans), you might want to brush them lightly with a tiny bit of olive oil and pre-bake them for 3-5 minutes before adding toppings. This helps crisp them up and prevents a soggy bottom. However, for most thin flatbreads or pre-baked pizza crusts, you can skip this step.
3. Spread the Pesto: Take your ½ cup of pesto (homemade or store-bought) and divide it evenly among your flatbreads. Spread a generous layer of pesto all the way to the edges of each flatbread, leaving a small border for the crust. This pesto layer is the foundational flavor of our Pesto Chicken Flatbread, so don’t be shy!
4. Add Chicken and Cheese: Evenly distribute the shredded or diced cooked chicken over the pesto layer on each flatbread. Next, sprinkle 1.5 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken, ensuring it’s spread out nicely to get an even melt. Then, add the ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella.
5. Layer on the Fresh Toppings: Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and toasted pine nuts (the 2 tablespoons you reserved, if you made homemade pesto) over the cheese and chicken. These fresh ingredients add vibrant color, texture, and bursts of flavor that complement the rich pesto and chicken perfectly.

Baking and Finishing Touches:

The moment of truth! Baking our Pesto Chicken Flatbread until it’s golden and bubbly is a glorious sight and smell.

1. Bake to Perfection: Carefully transfer the baking sheet(s) with the assembled flatbreads into your preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly, and the crusts are golden brown and slightly crisp. Keep a close eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary. The edges of the flatbread should be nicely browned, and some of the cheese might even get delightfully caramelized.
2. Cool and Garnish: Once baked, carefully remove the flatbreads from the oven. Transfer them to a cutting board. Let them cool for just 2-3 minutes. This brief resting period helps the cheese set slightly, making for cleaner slices and preventing all the toppings from sliding off. While they are still warm, scatter a handful of fresh basil leaves over the top. You can tear the basil leaves by hand for a rustic look and to release their aromatic oils.
3. Slice and Serve: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, slice the Pesto Chicken Flatbread into wedges or squares, depending on your preference and the shape of your flatbread.
4. Optional Enhancements: For an extra layer of flavor and a touch of visual appeal, you can drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the finished flatbreads before serving. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes is also fantastic if you enjoy a little heat. Serve immediately and enjoy the incredible flavors of this vibrant and satisfying dish!

Conclusion:

Well, friends, we’ve reached the end of our culinary journey for today, but the real adventure is just beginning in your kitchen. I truly believe that this isn’t just another recipe; it’s a gateway to effortless gourmet dining, a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular. What truly sets this Pesto Chicken Flatbread apart is its incredible balance of fresh, vibrant flavors with the comforting warmth of a perfectly baked crust. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a seasoned chef, even if you’re just starting your cooking journey. The creamy, aromatic pesto, the tender, savory chicken, and the bubbling, melted cheese atop a delightfully crisp flatbread base create a symphony of textures and tastes that is genuinely irresistible.

I crafted this recipe with the modern home cook in mind – someone who appreciates good food but doesn’t always have hours to spend slaving over a hot stove. This flatbread delivers maximum impact with minimal fuss, making it an absolute must-try for those busy weeknights when you still crave something wholesome and delicious, or for when you need a show-stopping appetizer that will impress your guests without requiring a culinary degree. The quality of ingredients shines through, and the ease of assembly means you’ll be enjoying its delightful flavors in no time at all. Trust me when I say, once you’ve experienced the sheer deliciousness and simplicity of this dish, it will quickly earn a permanent spot in your rotation.

Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations:

One of the many things I adore about this flatbread is its incredible versatility. For a casual yet elegant dinner, I love to serve it alongside a simple, crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette – perhaps an arugula salad with shaved Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon to complement the pesto. It also pairs beautifully with a bowl of warm tomato soup for a cozy, comforting meal. Thinking beyond dinner, cut into smaller squares or wedges, this Pesto Chicken Flatbread transforms into an exquisite appetizer for any gathering, a definite crowd-pleaser that disappears from the platter almost as quickly as it’s served. Imagine it as the star of your next game night or a sophisticated addition to a weekend brunch spread.

But don’t stop there! The beauty of cooking lies in personalizing your creations. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses – a sprinkle of smoked mozzarella could add a lovely depth, or some tangy feta for a Mediterranean twist. If you’re a veggie lover, consider adding thinly sliced cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even a handful of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of baking. For those who prefer a different protein, cooked shrimp or pan-seared mushrooms make fantastic alternatives to chicken. You could even swap out the basil pesto for a sun-dried tomato pesto or a vibrant kale pesto if you’re feeling adventurous. For a truly vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and load up on your favorite vegetables and perhaps some crumbled goat cheese or fresh mozzarella balls. And while I love the convenience of pre-made flatbread, don’t hesitate to use naan bread, pita, or even your favorite homemade pizza dough for a slightly different texture and experience. The possibilities are truly endless, and each variation offers a delightful new discovery.

So, there’s nothing left but for you to roll up your sleeves and give this incredible recipe a try! I am genuinely excited for you to experience the magic of this dish firsthand. I pour my heart into creating recipes that bring joy and deliciousness to your table, and this Pesto Chicken Flatbread is one I’m particularly proud of. Once you’ve whipped it up, don’t keep the deliciousness a secret! I absolutely love hearing from you and seeing your culinary triumphs. Please share your photos, your serving ideas, and any creative twists you add in the comments below or on social media. Your feedback and experiences truly inspire me, and I can’t wait to see your wonderful creations come to life. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!

Pesto Chicken Flatbread

A quick and delicious Pesto Chicken Flatbread recipe, featuring tender chicken, fresh basil pesto, mozzarella, tomatoes, and Parmesan on a crispy flatbread base.

Prep Time
15 Minutes

Cook Time
30 Minutes

Total Time
45 Minutes

Servings
4 servings

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pat chicken breasts dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Step 2
   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Rest chicken, then shred or dice.
3. Step 3
   Place flatbreads on the prepared baking sheet. Spread pesto evenly over each flatbread, leaving a small border for the crust. Top with shredded chicken, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese.
4. Step 4
   Scatter the 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes over the cheese and chicken. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crusts are golden brown.
5. Step 5
   Remove from oven, let cool for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves (if using). Slice and serve immediately.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.