Pesto Chicken and Fresh Mozzarella Flatbread

If you love the combination of crispy flatbread, savory pesto, and melty cheese, this Pesto Chicken and Fresh Mozzarella Flatbread will quickly become your new favorite dish. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and the perfect balance of freshness and richness. Whether you’re craving a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this flatbread is sure to hit the spot. With tender chicken, creamy mozzarella, and the irresistible aroma of fresh pesto, it’s a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Trust me, you’ll want to make this one again and again!

Why You’ll Love Pesto Chicken and Fresh Mozzarella Flatbread

This flatbread is more than just a quick bite—it’s a full-on flavor explosion! Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for it:

• Rich, Herby Pesto: The pesto adds a fresh, garlicky kick that makes each bite irresistible. It’s the perfect pairing for the chicken and mozzarella.
• Melty Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella gets bubbly and gooey on top, making every bite feel indulgent and comforting.
• Quick and Easy: It’s a breeze to put together, especially if you have cooked chicken on hand or use store-bought pesto.
• Customizable: Add extra veggies, switch out the cheese, or even drizzle with balsamic glaze for extra flavor!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack, a light dinner, or serving it at a party, this flatbread fits the bill. It’s simple but fancy enough to impress guests.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to bring this mouthwatering Pesto Chicken and Fresh Mozzarella Flatbread to life:

Flatbread

A crispy base that will hold all your delicious toppings. You can use store-bought flatbread or make your own for an extra special touch.

Cooked Chicken

You’ll need some tender, cooked chicken, whether it’s grilled, rotisserie, or leftover. It adds the protein and heartiness to balance the freshness of the other ingredients.

Pesto Sauce

The heart and soul of this flatbread. Use store-bought pesto or homemade pesto—it’s up to you! This will bring the vibrant green color and herbal punch.

Fresh Mozzarella

The gooey, creamy cheese that melts beautifully on top. Fresh mozzarella is the best choice for its soft, smooth texture.

Olive Oil

A little drizzle of olive oil adds richness and helps the flatbread crisp up in the oven.

Fresh Basil

To top it all off, fresh basil gives the flatbread a burst of fresh, herby flavor. You can never have enough basil with pesto!

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get started with these easy steps for the perfect Pesto Chicken and Fresh Mozzarella Flatbread:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). You want it hot enough to crisp up the flatbread and melt the cheese to perfection.

Prepare the Flatbread

Place your flatbread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top to help it get crispy as it bakes.

Assemble the Flatbread

Spread a generous amount of pesto over the flatbread, leaving a small border around the edges. Layer on the cooked chicken, distributing it evenly. Then, scatter pieces of fresh mozzarella on top.

Bake the Flatbread

Pop the flatbread in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the flatbread are golden and crispy.

Finish with Fresh Basil

Once the flatbread is out of the oven, scatter fresh basil leaves over the top. This will give it a burst of flavor and color that will make it even more irresistible.

Slice and Serve

Slice the flatbread into pieces, and get ready to dive in. Serve it immediately while it’s warm and the cheese is perfectly gooey.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve Pesto Chicken and Fresh Mozzarella Flatbread

This flatbread is perfect on its own or paired with a few side dishes for a more complete meal. Here are a few ideas for serving:

• Side Salad: Pair it with a crisp green salad tossed with balsamic vinaigrette for a light and refreshing contrast to the rich flatbread.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes would make a perfect side to complement the flatbread.
• Garlic Bread: If you’re feeling indulgent, serve with some warm, crispy garlic bread for a comforting meal.
• Wine Pairing: Enjoy it with a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips for making your Pesto Chicken and Fresh Mozzarella Flatbread even better:

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred it up, and you’re good to go.
• Try a Different Cheese: While fresh mozzarella is fantastic, you can also experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or provolone for a different flavor.
• Make it Spicy: If you love a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top or add a few slices of fresh jalapeño before baking.
• Use Whole Wheat Flatbread: For a healthier option, use whole wheat flatbread for added fiber and nutrients.
• Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: After baking, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the flatbread for a touch of sweetness and acidity.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this flatbread ahead of time?
A1: You can prepare the flatbread ahead of time by assembling it and storing it in the fridge before baking. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven and bake as usual.

Q2: Can I use store-bought pesto?
A2: Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a great time-saver and still adds amazing flavor. Just be sure to choose a high-quality brand.

Q3: Can I make this flatbread gluten-free?
A3: Yes, you can use gluten-free flatbread to make this recipe gluten-free. It’s a great alternative if you have dietary restrictions.

Q4: What if I don’t have fresh mozzarella?
A4: You can use shredded mozzarella cheese as a substitute. It won’t melt as perfectly as fresh mozzarella, but it will still taste delicious.

Q5: Can I freeze the assembled flatbread?
A5: Yes! Assemble the flatbread and freeze it before baking. When you’re ready to eat, bake it directly from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Store any leftover flatbread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to get it crispy again.

Q7: Can I make this flatbread without chicken?
A7: Yes! You can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and adding extra veggies like roasted bell peppers or spinach.

Q8: Can I use homemade pesto?
A8: Definitely! Homemade pesto will add an extra layer of flavor. Just be sure to use fresh ingredients like basil, garlic, and olive oil for the best results.

Q9: How can I make the flatbread extra crispy?
A9: If you want extra crispiness, you can bake the flatbread for a few extra minutes or use a pizza stone for an even crispier crust.

Q10: Can I add other toppings?
A10: Of course! Feel free to get creative. Sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even a sprinkle of parmesan would be delicious additions to this flatbread.

Conclusion

This Pesto Chicken and Fresh Mozzarella Flatbread is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to become a go-to favorite. With its perfect combination of crispy flatbread, savory pesto, tender chicken, and melty mozzarella, it’s a meal that satisfies every craving. Plus, it’s so easy to make and customize, you’ll be reaching for this recipe time and time again. Enjoy!

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