Name: Pesto Chicken Flatbread with Mozzarella Recipe
Prep time: 8 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 naan or flatbread rounds; Olive oil (for brushing); Salt & black pepper, to taste; ½ cup basil pesto; 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tbsp red onion, thinly sliced; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish; Optional: red pepper flakes or balsamic glaze

Introduction

This Pesto Chicken Flatbread with Mozzarella is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights or as a flavorful appetizer. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s loaded with fresh basil pesto, tender chicken, and melty cheese. Give it a try and keep it on hand for easy entertaining or a satisfying dinner.

The image shows two pieces of flatbread topped with multiple layers. The base is a golden-brown flatbread with grilled marks, with white melted cheese spread unevenly on top. There are red cherry tomatoes, some whole and some slightly roasted, scattered over the cheese. Thin slices of purple onion are layered next, along with small green basil leaves placed around. The flatbreads are placed on a wooden board with a white marbled surface in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 naan or flatbread rounds

½ cup basil pesto

1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

¼ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

2 tbsp red onion, thinly sliced

Olive oil (for brushing)

Salt & black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Optional: red pepper flakes or balsamic glaze

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Place the naan or flatbreads onto the prepared baking sheet and brush them lightly with olive oil to help create a crispy crust.

Step 3: Spread the basil pesto evenly over each flatbread, making sure to cover all the way to the edges for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Top each flatbread with the cooked chicken, shredded mozzarella cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly and the edges of the flatbread are golden brown.

Step 6: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze if you like a bit of heat or sweetness.

Step 7: Slice into pieces and serve warm for the best taste and texture.

Tips & Variations

Use rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken to save time without sacrificing flavor.

Swap mozzarella for burrata or fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture.

Add sliced olives or artichoke hearts for extra Mediterranean flair.

For a gluten-free option, choose gluten-free flatbreads or naan.

Brush the edges of the flatbread with garlic butter before baking for an extra layer of flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables such as roasted peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian version.

Is basil pesto necessary or can I use another sauce?

Basil pesto gives this flatbread its signature fresh flavor, but you can substitute with other pesto varieties like sun-dried tomato pesto or even a light spread of marinara for a different twist.