Grilled Pesto Chicken Flatbreads

Grilled pesto chicken flatbreads combine the perfect balance of savory chicken, melted cheese, and fresh, herby pesto, all on top of crispy flatbread. The grilled chicken, enhanced with the fragrant flavors of pesto, creates a satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and light at the same time.

This dish is wonderfully customizable. Feel free to swap out the chicken for a plant-based protein or use your favorite flatbread. Topped with fresh arugula and juicy tomatoes, this meal is a breeze to make and guaranteed to impress your guests or become your new go-to weeknight dinner.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1/4 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)

  • 4 flatbreads or naan

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated

  • 1 cup fresh arugula, for garnish

  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

  2. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

  3. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Once cooked, slice the chicken into strips.

  4. Brush the flatbreads with pesto sauce on both sides.

  5. Place the flatbreads on the grill for 1-2 minutes to warm them up and create grill marks.

  6. Once warmed, remove from the grill and top with grilled chicken slices, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese.

  7. Return the flatbreads to the grill, grilling for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.

  8. Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh arugula and halved cherry tomatoes.

  9. Slice and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Why Grilled Pesto Chicken Flatbreads Are a Great Meal Choice

Grilled Pesto Chicken Flatbreads are not only delicious but also versatile and healthy. The grilled chicken provides a good source of protein, while the pesto adds a burst of fresh herbs and healthy fats from the olive oil and nuts. The flatbreads themselves are light and crispy, making the perfect base for this meal. Whether you use store-bought flatbreads or make your own, the result is a dish that is satisfying without being overly heavy.

This recipe is also a great choice because it is quick and easy to prepare. Grilling the chicken adds a wonderful smoky flavor, and assembling the flatbreads is a breeze. Whether you are preparing it for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, it can be on the table in just 30 minutes. It’s an ideal choice for busy families, people who like to entertain, or anyone who enjoys delicious food without spending hours in the kitchen.

Additionally, this dish is highly customizable, allowing you to adapt it based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions. From the choice of protein to the type of flatbread, there are plenty of ways to make this meal your own.

Customizing Your Grilled Pesto Chicken Flatbreads

One of the best things about Grilled Pesto Chicken Flatbreads is their versatility. While the recipe calls for chicken, you can easily substitute other proteins based on your preferences or dietary needs. If you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option, grilled tofu or even a variety of roasted vegetables would make excellent substitutes for the chicken. The pesto can also be customized — while basil pesto is a classic choice, you could try sun-dried tomato pesto, arugula pesto, or even a spicy jalapeño pesto for a different flavor profile.

Another great way to customize this dish is by adding different toppings. While arugula and cherry tomatoes are delicious, you can also experiment with other fresh veggies like roasted red peppers, grilled onions, or even mushrooms. For those who love a bit of heat, a few slices of fresh chili or a drizzle of hot sauce can elevate the dish.

In terms of the flatbread, you can use naan, pita bread, or even gluten-free flatbreads if you’re catering to specific dietary needs. You can also make your own flatbreads at home for a truly homemade touch. The choice of cheese is also up to you — mozzarella and parmesan work well, but feel free to experiment with goat cheese, feta, or even a bit of blue cheese for a unique twist.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Grilled Pesto Chicken Flatbreads are an incredibly versatile dish that can be served in a variety of settings. They are perfect for casual weeknight dinners, weekend barbecues, and even as an appetizer for a larger gathering. The recipe is simple yet flavorful, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced cooks.

If you’re hosting a barbecue or outdoor gathering, these flatbreads can be made on the grill alongside other grilled meats and vegetables, adding to the outdoor, summer vibe. They can also be made in advance and served at room temperature, making them an easy choice for picnics or potlucks.

This dish is also great for families. The ingredients are straightforward, and the recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to serve more people. If you have children, they can even help with the assembly process — spreading the pesto on the flatbreads and adding the toppings is a fun and easy task for little hands.

A Healthier Alternative to Traditional Flatbread Pizza

While pizza is a beloved dish for many, it can sometimes be heavy and high in calories. Grilled Pesto Chicken Flatbreads offer a healthier alternative while still satisfying your cravings for something savory and delicious. The combination of lean chicken, fresh pesto, and simple toppings makes for a lighter meal without compromising on flavor. You can also easily make this dish healthier by choosing a whole-grain flatbread or using a smaller amount of cheese.

If you’re trying to reduce your carb intake, you can make the dish even lighter by opting for lettuce wraps instead of flatbreads. This swaps the traditional bread for a low-carb alternative, while still allowing you to enjoy the grilled chicken, pesto, and toppings.

Perfect Pairings for Grilled Pesto Chicken Flatbreads

To make your meal complete, you may want to pair your Grilled Pesto Chicken Flatbreads with a side dish or beverage. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette works well to balance the richness of the pesto and cheese. For a more substantial side, try roasted vegetables, sweet potato fries, or a quinoa salad.

If you’re looking to pair your flatbreads with a drink, a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp rosé would complement the dish perfectly. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a refreshing iced tea.

Conclusion

Grilled Pesto Chicken Flatbreads are an easy-to-make, flavorful, and customizable meal that is perfect for a wide variety of occasions. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a dish that can be adapted to your personal tastes, this recipe has you covered. The combination of grilled chicken, pesto, fresh toppings, and crispy flatbread is sure to leave you and your guests satisfied.

With its versatility, ease of preparation, and delicious flavor, Grilled Pesto Chicken Flatbreads are sure to become a go-to dish in your meal rotation. Try it out the next time you’re craving something fresh, flavorful, and satisfying.

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