Grilled Chicken Pesto Flatbread Pizza is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or even an appetizer. With a crispy flatbread crust, tender grilled chicken, and a vibrant basil pesto sauce, this pizza offers a delicious combination of fresh and savory flavors. Topped with melty cheese and optional vegetables, it is a simple yet gourmet meal that comes together in minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – This recipe requires minimal prep time and cooks quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Fresh and Flavorful – The combination of pesto, chicken, and cheese creates a delicious and aromatic dish.
- Customizable – You can easily adjust the toppings to suit your taste preferences.
- Healthier Alternative – Using flatbread instead of traditional pizza dough results in a lighter meal.
- Great for Any Occasion – Serve it as a main dish, a side, or an appetizer for gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Flatbread (naan or store-bought flatbread)
- Grilled chicken breast, sliced
- Basil pesto sauce
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Cherry tomatoes, sliced (optional)
- Red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). If using a grill, preheat it to medium heat.
- Prepare the flatbread by brushing it lightly with olive oil.
- Spread the pesto sauce evenly over the flatbread.
- Top with grilled chicken slices, mozzarella cheese, and any additional toppings like cherry tomatoes and red onions.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top for extra flavor.
- Bake in the oven for 8–10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If using a grill, cook for 5–7 minutes with the lid closed.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute before garnishing with fresh basil.
- Slice and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2–3
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option – Skip the chicken and add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Spicy Twist – Add red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot honey for extra heat.
- Cheese Swap – Try feta, goat cheese, or provolone for a different flavor profile.
- Different Protein – Swap grilled chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even crispy bacon.
- Homemade Pesto – Make your own pesto using fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, and pine nuts.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the flatbread soggy.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the flatbread may become too soft when thawed.
FAQs
How can I make this flatbread pizza crispier?
Bake the flatbread for a few minutes before adding the toppings to give it extra crispiness.
Can I use a different sauce instead of pesto?
Yes, you can use marinara sauce, white garlic sauce, or even barbecue sauce for a different flavor.
What type of flatbread works best?
Naan, pita, or pre-made thin crust flatbreads work well for this recipe.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
Yes, you can cook it in a skillet over medium heat with a lid on until the cheese is melted and the bottom is crispy.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flatbread to make this recipe gluten-free.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead, but it’s best to assemble and bake the pizza just before serving.
What cheese works best for this pizza?
Mozzarella is ideal, but you can also use provolone, gouda, or a cheese blend.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of grilled chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe.
What can I serve with this flatbread pizza?
A side salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of soup pairs well with this dish.
How do I prevent the flatbread from getting soggy?
Use a light layer of pesto and avoid adding too many watery toppings like fresh tomatoes.
Conclusion
Grilled Chicken Pesto Flatbread Pizza is a simple yet delicious meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you are making it for a quick dinner or serving it as an appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress. With plenty of variations and customization options, you can make it exactly how you like. Try it today for a fresh and satisfying meal!
Print
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This grilled chicken pesto is a flavorful and easy dish featuring juicy grilled chicken, fresh basil pesto, and melty cheese on a crispy flatbread. Perfect for a quick meal!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- 2 naan or flatbreads
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Grill for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through. Let rest, then slice.
- Spread pesto over naan or flatbread.
- Top with sliced chicken, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Grill for 5 minutes until cheese melts.
- Sprinkle with feta cheese and fresh basil. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use store-bought pesto or make homemade for extra freshness.
- Can be made in an oven at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: talian