Keto Pesto Caprese Chicken Bake with Melted Mozzarella

Looking for a simple, family-friendly dinner that feels special but doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen? This Keto Pesto Caprese Chicken Bake fits the bill perfectly. It combines juicy chicken breasts with fresh pesto, sweet cherry tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella pearls for a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. Plus, it’s a dump-and-bake recipe, meaning you can set it up quickly and let the oven do the work while you take care of other things.

This recipe is ideal for busy parents who want to serve a wholesome meal with minimal fuss. The mild, familiar flavors appeal to kids and adults alike, and the melted mozzarella adds a touch of indulgence without extra effort.

Keto Pesto Caprese Chicken Bake fresh from the oven

Freshly baked Keto Pesto Caprese Chicken with melted mozzarella and roasted cherry tomatoes

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1½ to 2 pounds chicken breast

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Garlic powder or Italian seasoning

• ½ cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 to 1½ cups cherry tomatoes

• 1 to 1½ cups mozzarella pearls

• Olive oil (optional drizzle)

  
  

These ingredients keep the dish simple and keto-friendly, focusing on fresh flavors and wholesome fats.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the chicken cooks through while the tomatoes soften and the cheese melts perfectly.

   
   

2. Lightly grease a baking dish. Use olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

   
   

3. Place the chicken breasts in the dish. Season each piece generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

   
   

4. Spread pesto evenly over each chicken breast. The pesto adds a rich, herbaceous layer that keeps the chicken moist.

   
   

5. Scatter cherry tomatoes around the chicken. These will roast alongside the chicken, bursting with sweetness.

   
   

6. Bake uncovered for 22 to 25 minutes. The chicken should be nearly cooked through, and the tomatoes will start to soften.

   
   

7. Remove the dish from the oven and add mozzarella pearls on top of the chicken. The cheese will melt into a creamy topping.

   
   

8. Return the dish to the oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This melts the mozzarella perfectly.

   
   

9. Optional: Broil for 1 to 2 minutes. This step gives the cheese a bubbly, golden finish.

   
   

10. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier.

Kid-Friendly Serving Tips

• Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks for little hands.

• Add extra mozzarella on top for cheese lovers.

• Pair with simple sides like buttered pasta, rice, garlic bread, or fresh fruit to round out the meal.

  
  

These tips make the dish approachable for kids and help picky eaters enjoy the flavors.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 400–450

• Protein: 45g

• Fat: 25g

• Carbohydrates: 6g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 3g

  
  

This recipe is rich in protein and healthy fats, making it a great option for keto and low-carb diets. The tomatoes add a small amount of natural sugars and fiber, balancing the dish.