There’s something inherently comforting about the smell of garlic and fresh basil wafting through the kitchen. After a long day, I find myself craving the warmth of a homemade meal that doesn’t require hours of preparation. Enter my Quick French Bread Pesto Chicken Pizza—a satisfying dish that balances crispy bread, tender chicken, and gooey mozzarella cheese, all brought together by a layer of vibrant pesto.
This recipe is a game changer for weeknight dinners, taking only 20 minutes from start to finish. I love how family-friendly it is; the kids can enjoy assembling their own pizzas, customizing toppings to suit their taste. Whether you’re coming home from a busy day or simply looking to break free from the fast-food routine, this delightful pizza promises all the flavor without the fuss. So, let’s dive into this effortless crowd-pleaser that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why is French Bread Pesto Chicken Pizza a Must-Try?
Ease and Speed: In just 20 minutes, your dinner is ready! No complicated steps, making it perfect for any skill level.
Family-Friendly Fun: Kids can join in, customizing their own personal pizzas—healthy and delicious.
Delicious Layers: The crispy French bread provides a delightful base, while the pesto, chicken, and melted cheese bring a symphony of flavors and textures.
Adaptable Ingredients: Swap chicken for shrimp or veggies for a quick twist that suits dietary preferences.
Minimal Cleanup: One baking sheet is all you need, leaving more time for family and relaxation.
This French Bread Pesto Chicken Pizza is not just a meal; it’s an experience worth savoring any night of the week!
French Bread Pesto Chicken Pizza Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Olive Oil – Adds moisture and flavor to the chicken; avocado oil works as a great substitute.
• Medium Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast (8 oz) – Provides a hearty protein; consider turkey breast or a plant-based option for a vegetarian dish.
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors; can be omitted for low-sodium diets.
For the Pizza Base
• French Bread (10 oz loaf) – The crispy and fluffy base; feel free to substitute with baguette or ciabatta for a different twist.
For the Toppings
• Basil Pesto (1/3 cup) – Adds a rich herby flavor; try sun-dried tomato pesto for a unique taste.
• Cherry Tomatoes (1/2 cup, halved) – Brings freshness and acidity; grape tomatoes work or you can omit if needed.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup) – Becomes melty and gooey; for a vegan option, use dairy-free cheese.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil and Parmesan Cheese Shavings (optional) – Perfect for drizzling and garnishing; omit if you desire a lighter option.
This delightful French Bread Pesto Chicken Pizza not only satisfies your cravings but also fits seamlessly into busy weeknights!
How to Make French Bread Pesto Chicken Pizza
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Preheat Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 400°F. This ensures it’s hot enough to make the bread crispy and the cheese delightfully melty.
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Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the medium boneless, skinless chicken breast and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 10 minutes, until golden brown and fully cooked, reaching 165°F. Remove from heat and let it rest.
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Prepare Bread: While the chicken cools slightly, slice the French bread in half lengthwise. Place it cut-side up on a baking sheet, allowing it to toast nicely during baking.
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Assemble Pizza: Spread 1/3 cup of basil pesto generously over the bread. Layer half of the halved cherry tomatoes and half of the cooked chicken. Top with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, then add the remaining tomatoes and chicken as the final toppings.
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Bake: Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. Look for the cheese to melt beautifully and the bread to heat through.
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Serve: Once done, drizzle with some extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese shavings, if using. Slice into pieces and enjoy!
Optional: Add fresh basil leaves as a garnish for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with French Bread Pesto Chicken Pizza?
When you’re ready to elevate dinner beyond a simple pizza, consider these delightful pairings that will complete your meal perfectly.
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Crisp Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pizza and adds a refreshing crunch.
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Garlic Roasted Vegetables: The earthy sweetness of roasted veggies complements the savory flavors of the pizza and adds heartiness to your plate. Think bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots for vibrant color.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: Dipping your pizza into a smooth, tangy tomato soup creates a comforting, nostalgic experience, evoking memories of classic comfort food.
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Fruit Salad Medley: A colorful fruit salad with strawberries, blueberries, and melons introduces a sweet and juicy contrast to the savory dish, making every bite an intriguing balance of flavors.
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Italian Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing beverage’s bright, zesty flavor enhances the Italian-inspired pizza and keeps the meal feeling light and energizing.
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Pesto Pasta: Serve a simple pesto pasta on the side for a specialized twist. The shared flavor profile strengthens the dish, making it feel like a complete Italian feast.
Each of these ideas brings its own unique taste and texture to your dining table, perfect for a relaxed evening or a gathering with family and friends. Enjoy!
How to Store and Freeze French Bread Pesto Chicken Pizza
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Fridge: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps the flavors intact and ready for a quick reheat.
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Freezer: If you want to freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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Reheating: To enjoy your pizza again, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. This restores the crispy texture and gooey cheese!
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Serving Size: For best results, only take out what you plan to eat immediately to maintain the quality of the French Bread Pesto Chicken Pizza!
Make Ahead Options
This Quick French Bread Pesto Chicken Pizza is a fantastic make-ahead option for busy cooks! You can prep the chicken and pesto up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the chicken as directed, allow it to cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also slice the French bread and keep it wrapped to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, spread the pesto on the bread, top with the chicken, tomatoes, and cheese, and bake it for about 10 minutes. This way, you’ll have a delicious family meal ready in no time—just as satisfying and fresh as if you had made it from scratch that same night!
Expert Tips for French Bread Pesto Chicken Pizza
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Check Chicken Temperature: Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. Using a meat thermometer can help avoid undercooked poultry.
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Slice Bread Carefully: Use a serrated knife to slice the French bread. This prevents squishing and keeps the edges crispier as they bake.
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Experiment with Pesto: Don’t hesitate to try different types of pesto. For a twist, sun-dried tomato pesto can add a deliciously unique flavor to your French Bread Pesto Chicken Pizza.
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Add Some Heat: Consider sprinkling red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning on top of the pizza before baking to elevate flavors—just remember to balance out the spices so they don’t overpower the dish!
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Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat in the oven. This keeps the bread crispy and the cheese melty, just like when it was first made!
French Bread Pesto Chicken Pizza Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delicious dish—it’s all about making it your own!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute regular mozzarella cheese with a dairy-free version to enjoy a vegan-friendly option.
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Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to create a hearty vegetarian delight.
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Grilled Chicken: Use grilled chicken for extra flavor. The smokiness pairs beautifully with the basil pesto.
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Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the pizza before baking for a spicy kick that dances on your palate.
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Nutty Flavor: Blend pine nuts or walnuts into your pesto for added texture and nutty depth.
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Gluten-Free: Swap French bread for a gluten-free baguette or your favorite gluten-free flatbread to make it accessible for everyone.
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Homemade Pesto: Try making your own pesto using fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and nuts for an even fresher and more vibrant flavor.
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Additional Toppings: Toss on some artichoke hearts or olives for an extra burst of flavor and a sophisticated touch to your pizza.
French Bread Pesto Chicken Pizza Recipe FAQs
How do I know which chicken to choose for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are plump and firm with fresh, pinkish flesh. Avoid any that have dark spots or an unpleasant odor. If you’re opting for a plant-based option, choose a product that has a similar texture and flavor profile to mimic the chicken’s role in the dish.
How should I store leftovers of my French Bread Pesto Chicken Pizza?
Very simple! Just place your leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. That allows you to enjoy this delightful meal multiple times without worrying about flavor loss!
Can I freeze French Bread Pesto Chicken Pizza for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months! When you’re ready to enjoy the pizza again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover pizza?
To maintain that crispy texture, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the pizza on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melty and the bread is warm. Reheating this way ensures it tastes nearly as fresh as the day you made it!
Can I cater this recipe for someone with dietary restrictions?
Of course! If you’re accommodating allergies or dietary preferences, there are several easy swaps. For instance, substitute chicken with shrimp or sautéed veggies for a vegetarian option, and use dairy-free cheese for lactose intolerance. Always check labels for hidden allergens in pesto, such as nuts, especially if cooking for individuals with nut allergies.
How can I tell if the chicken is cooked through?
Very important! Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. To check this, simply insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. If you don’t have one, ensure the chicken is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear to confirm it’s fully cooked.
Savory French Bread Pesto Chicken Pizza Ready in 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F to ensure the bread is crispy and cheese is melty.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breast and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 10 minutes until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from heat and let rest.
- While chicken cools, slice French bread in half lengthwise. Place cut-side up on a baking sheet.
- Spread basil pesto over bread. Layer with half of the cherry tomatoes and half of the cooked chicken. Top with mozzarella, then remaining tomatoes and chicken.
- Bake for about 10 minutes until cheese melts and bread is heated through.
- Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired. Slice and serve.