Pesto Chicken Flatbread is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that brings together crispy flatbread topped with tender chicken, vibrant green pesto, and gooey melted cheese. The combination of the fresh basil pesto and the savory chicken makes every bite flavorful and satisfying. It has a nice balance of crispiness from the flatbread and creaminess from the cheese, which I love.
Whenever I make this, I enjoy how quickly it comes together—perfect for those busy evenings when you want something tasty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I like adding a little extra fresh basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top to give it a bit of a kick. It’s one of those dishes where you can easily switch up the toppings to match whatever you have on hand.
My favorite way to serve this flatbread is with a simple side salad or some roasted veggies. It’s great for a casual dinner but also works well when you have friends over and want something shareable and fun. This pesto chicken flatbread never fails to bring smiles around the table and makes me look forward to leftovers the next day!
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flatbread: Using pre-made flatbread saves time and gives a nice crispy base. If you can’t find flatbread, naan or pita bread work great as alternatives.
Cooked Chicken: Leftover or rotisserie chicken is perfect here. If you prefer, you can swap with cooked turkey or even sauté mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Basil Pesto: This is the flavor star! Store-bought pesto is a convenient option, but homemade pesto with fresh basil, garlic, nuts, and Parmesan tastes even better.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully and helps bind all the toppings. For a sharper flavor, try adding some Parmesan or goat cheese.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add a juicy burst and a bit of sweetness. If you don’t have fresh ones, sun-dried tomatoes are a tasty alternative.
How Do You Get a Crispy Flatbread with Perfectly Melted Cheese?
To get the flatbread crispy and the cheese perfectly melted, follow these tips:
- Preheat your oven fully to 425°F (220°C) so it’s hot when the flatbread goes in.
- Brush the flatbread lightly with olive oil to help crisp the edges and prevent sogginess.
- Don’t overload the flatbread with too many toppings; keep a balance so heat can crisp the base evenly.
- Bake on a baking sheet or pizza stone placed in the middle rack for consistent heat.
- Keep an eye on it near the end of baking—remove as soon as cheese bubbles and edges turn golden for the best texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for crisping the flatbread evenly in the oven.
- Pastry brush – helps you spread olive oil smoothly on the flatbread for a nice golden crust.
- Sharp knife – makes cutting chicken and slicing cherry tomatoes quick and easy.
- Oven mitts – essential for safely handling the hot baking sheet and flatbread.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked shrimp or Italian sausage to change up the protein and add bold flavor.
- Try goat cheese or feta instead of mozzarella for a tangy cheese twist that pairs nicely with pesto.
- Add roasted red peppers or caramelized onions for sweetness and extra texture.
- Top with pine nuts or toasted walnuts after baking for a crunchy finish and nutty flavor.
How to Make Pesto Chicken Flatbread?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pre-made flatbread (about 8-10 inches)
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1/3 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to bake. Overall, you can expect to have a delicious Pesto Chicken Flatbread ready in about 15-20 minutes. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a fast and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Flatbread:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Meanwhile, lightly brush the flatbread with olive oil all over — this helps it crisp nicely while baking.
2. Add Pesto and Cheese:
Spread the basil pesto evenly on the flatbread, leaving a small border around the edges. Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pesto layer, covering it well.
3. Top and Bake:
Distribute the cooked chicken pieces evenly over the cheese, then scatter the halved cherry tomatoes on top. Season everything with a little salt and freshly ground pepper. Place the flatbread on a baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden, and the flatbread edges are crisp.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the flatbread from the oven and let it cool for a minute or two. Finish by garnishing with fresh basil slices. Slice and enjoy your flavorful Pesto Chicken Flatbread!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Flatbread?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken before using it. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the quick thaw method by placing it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Cook the chicken thoroughly before adding it to the flatbread.
Can I Make This Flatbread Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the flatbread with toppings in advance and refrigerate it for up to a day. When ready to eat, bake it fresh to keep the crust crispy and the cheese melty.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover flatbread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to maintain crispiness rather than using the microwave.
Can I Substitute the Pesto or Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have basil pesto, try sun-dried tomato pesto or even a light tomato sauce. For cheese, mozzarella works best, but goat cheese or feta can add a tasty twist.
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