Italian Basil Chicken

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Crispy, golden chicken breasts smothered in fresh basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, and melted mozzarella—this Italian Basil Chicken is pure comfort with a touch of elegance. Every bite bursts with Mediterranean flavors, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.

The combination of crunchy breaded chicken and fragrant basil creates a restaurant-quality dish right at home. Whether you serve it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Italian Basil Chicken

• Bold, fresh flavors: Basil pesto and sweet cherry tomatoes add a vibrant, herbaceous punch.
• Restaurant-worthy texture: Crispy golden chicken contrasts beautifully with gooey mozzarella.
• Quick but impressive: Ready in under 40 minutes, yet fancy enough for dinner guests.
• Versatile pairing options: Pairs beautifully with pasta, roasted veggies, or even a light salad.

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What Kind of Basil Should I Use?

For the best flavor, opt for fresh sweet basil. This type has a mild, slightly peppery flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken and mozzarella. Avoid dried basil here—it won’t deliver the same bright, fragrant punch. If you can get it, Genovese basil is the ideal choice for a traditional Italian touch.

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Ingredients for the Italian Basil Chicken

Each ingredient plays a key role in creating this flavorful dish. Fresh, high-quality ingredients make all the difference, so try to use the best you can find.

• Chicken breasts – Lean and juicy, they provide the perfect base for the crispy coating.
• Panko breadcrumbs – Gives the chicken its irresistible crunch.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty depth to the crispy coating.
• Eggs – Helps the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken for a perfect crust.
• Olive oil – For frying to golden perfection and adding rich flavor.
• Fresh mozzarella – Melts beautifully over the hot chicken for a creamy finish.
• Cherry tomatoes – Their natural sweetness balances the savory flavors.
• Basil pesto – The star of the dish, adding vibrant, herby richness.
• Fresh basil leaves – For garnish and an extra burst of fresh flavor.
• Salt & black pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

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How To Make the Italian Basil Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Season generously with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast into beaten eggs, then dredge in a mix of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 3: Pan-Fry Until Crispy

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Add the Mozzarella

Place fresh mozzarella slices on top of each hot chicken breast, allowing the residual heat to melt the cheese.

Step 5: Top with Pesto and Tomatoes

Spoon basil pesto generously over the melted mozzarella, then top with halved cherry tomatoes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a final aromatic touch. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

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Serving and Storing Italian Basil Chicken

This recipe serves 4 people, making it ideal for a family dinner or a cozy dinner with friends. Serve it hot for the best texture, as the crispy chicken and melted mozzarella are at their peak right after cooking.

For storage, let the chicken cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to bring back the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

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What to Serve With Italian Basil Chicken?

1. Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Their smooth, buttery texture complements the crispy chicken perfectly.

2. Roasted Parmesan Asparagus

Light, crisp, and cheesy—an excellent green side.

3. Lemon Butter Pasta

Simple but flavorful, this pasta balances the richness of the chicken.

4. Fresh Garden Salad

A mix of greens, cucumbers, and light vinaigrette keeps the meal refreshing.

5. Garlic Bread

Crunchy and buttery, perfect for soaking up extra pesto and tomato juices.

6. Sauteed Zucchini Ribbons

Lightly seasoned, they add a healthy and elegant touch.

7. Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil echo the flavors of the chicken beautifully.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Italian Basil Chicken, you might also enjoy these flavorful chicken recipes:

• Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken for a restaurant-style crispy delight.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole if you love creamy, cheesy layers.
• Marry Me Chicken for a rich and creamy sauce that’s irresistible.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna when you want a seafood twist.
• Buffalo Chicken Lasagna if you crave a spicy kick.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra pesto or roasted the tomatoes first? Did you serve it with pasta or keep it low-carb?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated Italian-inspired and health-boosting meals on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to dinner favorites!

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