Pesto Chicken Flatbread

Craving a restaurant-style dish that’s fresh, fast, and full of flavor? Pesto Chicken Flatbread is the answer.

At dishfoody.com, quick and delicious meals are all about balance and this flatbread brings together juicy, tender chicken, creamy pesto sauce, melted mozzarella, and vibrant toppings like tomatoes and basil.

It’s the perfect weeknight meal, a light lunch, or an elegant appetizer for guests. Inspired by classic Italian flavors but with modern convenience, this recipe guarantees bold taste in every bite.

Why This Pesto Chicken Flatbread Recipe Works

• Combines protein, crisp bread, and savory pesto into one simple dish.
• Quick to prepare using rotisserie or leftover chicken.
• Easily customizable for various dietary preferences (gluten-free, keto, or vegetarian).

Choosing the Right Chicken for Pesto Chicken Flatbread

Best Chicken Options for This Recipe

Grilled, baked, or shredded rotisserie chicken all work beautifully here. Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver that remains juicy, while thin-sliced grilled breasts absorb pesto flavor best.

Buying Tips

Choose organic or free-range chicken for richer flavor and better texture. If using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken, check for sodium content to avoid overly salty flavor when combined with pesto.

Substitutions

For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with roasted red peppers, artichokes, or portobello mushrooms. For dairy-free diets, use vegan mozzarella and nut-based pesto.

Ingredients & Prep for Pesto Chicken Flatbread

Prep Essentials

You’ll need:

• 1–2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups cooked shredded chicken)
• 2 store-bought or homemade flatbreads (naan or gluten-free versions work too)
• ½ cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese or sliced fresh mozzarella
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzle

Making the Pesto Chicken

If using uncooked chicken, season with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Sauté in a skillet over medium heat for 8–10 minutes until golden and cooked through. Once cooked, shred or cube and toss in 2 tablespoons of pesto while still warm to soak up the flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Pesto Chicken Flatbread

Pre-Cooking Prep for Pesto Chicken Flatbread

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Brush each flatbread lightly with olive oil for crispiness.

Assembly and Baking

1. Spread a thin, even layer of pesto across the surface of each flatbread.
2. Sprinkle half the mozzarella evenly, then add the chicken and tomatoes.
3. Top with remaining cheese and a light pinch of black pepper.
4. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are crisp and the cheese is bubbly with golden spots.

Doneness Check for Pesto Chicken Flatbread

Flatbread edges should be golden brown, and the bottom should feel firm when lifted. The cheese should melt fully, with slight bubbling and browning on top.

Resting for Pesto Chicken Flatbread

Allow the flatbread to cool for 2 minutes before slicing this helps the toppings set and makes clean cuts easier.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pesto Chicken Flatbread

Avoiding Soggy Crusts

Pre-bake your flatbread for 3–5 minutes before adding toppings if using homemade dough or naan. This ensures it stays crisp after baking.

Tool Recommendations

A pizza stone helps achieve a brick-oven crisp, while a simple baking sheet works fine for beginner-friendly results. Use a sharp pizza cutter or chef’s knife for clean slices.

Storage & Reheating

Wrap slices in foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 5–6 minutes—avoid microwaving to keep the crust crispy.

Flavor Variations for Pesto Chicken Flatbread

Spicy Twist

Add crushed red pepper flakes, sliced jalapeños, or drizzle with hot honey for a sweet-heat contrast.

Keto/Paleo Option

Use a cauliflower or almond-flour crust to keep carbs low and swap mozzarella for dairy-free cheese.

Global Flavors

• Mediterranean: Add kalamata olives, artichokes, and feta.
• Italian Classic: Top with roasted garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
• American BBQ Fusion: Swap pesto for sugar-free barbecue sauce and use grilled chicken.

Serving Suggestions for Pesto Chicken Flatbread

Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for balance. It also pairs perfectly with soup combinations like tomato basil or creamy mushroom. For an appetizer presentation, cut into squares and drizzle with balsamic glaze.

As a dinner pairing, a sparkling water infused with lemon or a chilled herbal tea complements the herby pesto flavor beautifully.

FAQs for Pesto Chicken Flatbread

Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works great, but for deeper flavor, stir in a drizzle of olive oil and a fresh squeeze of lemon juice.

How do I make it vegetarian?
Skip the chicken and load up on vegetables like artichokes, spinach, and mushrooms.

Can I grill the flatbread instead of baking?
Yes grill on medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side until grill marks form and the cheese melts perfectly.

Conclusion

Pesto Chicken Flatbread delivers bold Italian-inspired flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or cozy nights in, it’s proof that fresh ingredients can make a simple dish feel gourmet. Combining crisp crust, juicy chicken, creamy cheese, and herbaceous pesto, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Head to dishfoody.com for more quick yet delicious flatbread and pizza ideas try our Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Soft Pretzels next for another easy comfort meal.

Pesto Chicken Flatbread

Print Recipe

Crispy flatbread topped with creamy pesto, juicy chicken, and melted mozzarella a quick and delicious meal that brings Italian-inspired flavors right to your table.

• Author: ssam
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins
• Total Time: 20 mins
• Yield: 2 flatbreads 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 flatbreads or naan
• 1/2 cup pesto sauce
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or sliced
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Olive oil, for brushing
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

• 1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• 2. Brush flatbreads lightly with olive oil and place on the baking sheet.
• 3. Spread pesto sauce evenly over each flatbread.
• 4. Top with cooked chicken, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan.
• 5. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
• 6. Bake for 8–10 minutes or until cheese is melted and edges are crisp.
• 7. Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil, slice, and serve warm.

Notes

• Use store-bought or homemade pesto for convenience.
• Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Great with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 flatbread
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Pesto Chicken Flatbread, easy dinner, flatbread pizza, quick meal