Keto Pesto Chicken Caprese Recipe

Keto pesto chicken caprese combines juicy pan-seared chicken breasts topped with vibrant basil pesto, fresh tomato slices, and melted fresh mozzarella for an Italian-inspired dinner that looks as stunning as it tastes. This elegant one-pan dish uses classic Caprese ingredients to transform ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. With just 4g net carbs per serving and 66g of protein, this is one of the most beautiful and macro-friendly keto chicken dinners you can make.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts (about 700g total), pounded to even thickness
• 4 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 large tomatoes, sliced (about 200g)
• 200g fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Balsamic glaze (sugar-free) for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden. Do not move during searing.
5. Remove from heat. Spread 1 tbsp pesto over each chicken breast.
6. Layer tomato slices on top of the pesto, then top with fresh mozzarella slices.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and mozzarella is melted and golden.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
9. Drizzle with sugar-free balsamic glaze if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh mozzarella (not shredded), as it melts more beautifully and has a softer texture.
• For homemade pesto: blend 2 cups basil, 1/4 cup pine nuts, 2 cloves garlic, 1/2 cup parmesan, 1/2 cup olive oil, salt. Takes 5 minutes.
• Add sliced avocado alongside the tomato layer for extra keto-friendly fat.
• Substitute chicken breast with boneless thighs; reduce searing time to 3-4 minutes per side.
• For a non-oven variation, cover the skillet with a lid after adding toppings and cook on low for 5 minutes until cheese melts.

Nutrition Breakdown

Calories: 567 kcal

Protein: 65.9g

Fat: 30g

Carbs: 5.9g

Net Carbs: 4g

Fiber: 1.5g

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