Pesto Chicken Bake with Cherry Tomatoes and Cheese

This delightful dish combines tender chicken breasts baked to perfection with a vibrant blend of pesto, sweet cherry tomatoes, and savory cheese. The aromatic garlic and onion add depth, while the fresh ingredients create a harmonious balance of flavors. Perfect for a family dinner, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to prepare, meeting various dietary preferences.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 cup pesto sauce
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the sliced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. In a baking dish, place the chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Spread the pesto sauce evenly over the chicken.
4. Top the pesto-covered chicken with the sautéed onions, cherry tomatoes, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.