Quick Description
This Keto Cheesy Chicken Pesto Casserole is a rich, low-carb, high-protein dinner made with juicy chicken breasts, bold basil pesto, fresh tomatoes, and perfectly melted mozzarella. It’s simple, comforting, and incredibly flavorful—perfect for keto, low-carb lifestyles, or busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the carbs.
Servings & Timing
- Serves: 4–6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Total Time: ~45 minutes
Ingredients List
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 oz pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tomatoes, sliced
- 8 slices mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
- ½ tsp black pepper (optional)
Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Place chicken breasts evenly in the dish and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using).
2. Add Pesto
- Spread pesto evenly over each chicken breast, coating the top well.
3. Layer Tomatoes & Cheese
- Arrange sliced tomatoes over the pesto-covered chicken.
- Top each piece with mozzarella slices.
4. Bake
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C) and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for golden cheese.
5. Serve
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition (per serving)
(Approximate values)
- Calories: ~420
- Protein: ~48g
- Carbs: ~6g net
- Fat: ~26g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugar: ~3g
Benefits
- Keto & Low-Carb: Very low in carbs, perfect for keto meals
- High-Protein: Keeps you full and supports muscle recovery
- Easy & Minimal Prep: Just layer and bake
- Family Friendly: Simple flavors everyone loves
Additional Notes
- Use fresh mozzarella for extra creaminess
- Homemade pesto gives the best flavor
- Add spinach under the cheese for extra nutrients
Dietary Info
- Keto-Friendly: Yes
- Low-Carb: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- High-Protein: Yes
Brief Introduction
This Keto Cheesy Chicken Pesto Casserole is one of those effortless meals that feels fancy but takes almost no time. Juicy chicken, herby pesto, and melty mozzarella come together for a rich, comforting dish that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Season chicken and place in baking dish
- Spread pesto over chicken
- Layer tomatoes and mozzarella
- Bake until bubbly and cooked through
- Rest, serve, and enjoy
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Chicken Breasts: Thighs can be used for extra juiciness
- Pesto: Basil pesto works best, but sun-dried tomato pesto is great too
- Mozzarella: Provolone or Monterey Jack also work
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Add Veggies: Zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach
- Extra Creamy: Add a few spoonfuls of cream cheese under the pesto
- Serve With: Cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a side salad
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in an airtight container
- Freeze: Up to 2 months
- Reheat: Oven or microwave until warmed through
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless thighs work great and stay extra juicy.
Is store-bought pesto okay?
Yes—just check labels for added sugar if staying strict keto.
Can I prep this ahead?
Absolutely. Assemble, cover, refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Optional Personal Story
This casserole became a staple when I needed fast keto dinners that didn’t feel boring. It’s one of those recipes that always turns out perfect and makes great leftovers.
Call-to-Action
Save this Keto Cheesy Chicken Pesto Casserole for your next easy dinner. If you make it, let me know how you served it—or what you added to make it your own! 💚🍗🧀
