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Golden baked chicken breast topped with creamy green pesto goat cheese and crispy breadcrumbs
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Goat Cheese & Pesto Crusted Chicken

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 480kcal

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (approx 6oz each)
  • 4 oz fresh goat cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup prepared basil pesto
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C).
  • Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  • In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese and basil pesto until smooth.
  • In a separate bowl, toss the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter until evenly coated.
  • Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Sear the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip.
  • Immediately spread a thick layer of the goat cheese and pesto mixture over the seared side of each chicken breast.
  • Press the buttery panko breadcrumbs firmly into the cheese mixture.
  • Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.