Grilled Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pockets
Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of Grilled Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pockets, a dish that combines juicy, grilled chicken breasts with creamy mozzarella and the vibrant taste of fresh pesto. This recipe is a family favorite that never fails to impress guests, making it a perfect choice for both casual dinners and festive gatherings. With the delightful addition of roasted red peppers, each bite is a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread and a refreshing salad. What’s more, this meal comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for those last-minute cookouts or weeknight dinners. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare using ingredients you likely have on hand!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
4 (Rinsed and patted dry)
Fresh Ground Black Pepper
1/2 tablespoon (For seasoning)
Pesto Sauce
1/2 cup (Store-bought or homemade)
Mozzarella Cheese (Perlini or Small Balls)
1/2 cup (Cut into smaller pieces if using larger mozzarella)
Roasted Red Pepper
1/2 cup (Sliced)
Instructions
1
Preheat your grill to high heat and prepare it with a light coat of oil (for charcoal, oil the grill before heating).
2
Rinse the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels.
3
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket deep lengthwise into the edge of each chicken breast, being cautious not to cut all the way through.
4
Season each chicken breast generously with fresh ground black pepper on both sides.
5
Spread 1 tablespoon of pesto sauce into each pocket, making sure to coat the inside evenly.
6
Stuff each pocket with equal amounts of mozzarella balls and sliced roasted red pepper, ensuring they are packed well.
7
Take the remaining pesto sauce and spread it evenly over the outside of each chicken breast to give them a beautiful coating.
8
Place the stuffed chicken breasts on the oiled grill and close the lid.
9
Cook for approximately 7 minutes or until the bottom is browned.
10
Flip the chicken breasts over and continue cooking for another 7 minutes or until they are browned on the second side and no longer pink in the center (you can carefully cut one open to check).
11
Serve these succulent chicken pockets hot, alongside some crusty bread, a tossed green salad, and fresh fruit for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Grilled Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pockets?
They are juicy grilled chicken breasts stuffed with fresh pesto, mozzarella cheese, and roasted red peppers.
How many chicken breasts do I need for this recipe?
The recipe requires 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts.
What type of mozzarella cheese is best to use?
Perlini or small mozzarella balls are recommended, though larger ones can be used if cut into smaller pieces.
How much pesto sauce is used in total?
A total of 1/2 cup of pesto sauce is used for both the inside and outside of the chicken.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, you can use either store-bought or homemade pesto sauce for this recipe.
What kind of peppers are used in the stuffing?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of sliced roasted red peppers.
How do I prepare the chicken before cutting the pockets?
Rinse the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels before starting.
How do I cut the pocket into the chicken?
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a deep pocket lengthwise into the edge of each breast without cutting all the way through.
What seasoning is used for the chicken?
The chicken is seasoned generously on both sides with fresh ground black pepper.
How much pesto goes inside each chicken pocket?
You should spread 1 tablespoon of pesto sauce inside each pocket.
What temperature should the grill be set to?
Preheat your grill to high heat.
Should I oil the grill?
Yes, apply a light coat of oil to the grill before heating to prevent sticking.
How long does the chicken cook on the first side?
Cook for approximately 7 minutes or until the bottom is browned.
How long is the total cooking time on the grill?
The total cooking time is approximately 14 minutes, with 7 minutes per side.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it is browned on both sides and no longer pink in the center.
Do I cook the chicken with the grill lid open or closed?
Place the stuffed chicken on the grill and close the lid during cooking.
What should I do with the pesto that isn't put inside the pockets?
Spread the remaining pesto sauce evenly over the outside of each chicken breast.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Is this a good recipe for a weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is ideal for weeknights as it comes together in under an hour.
What are some recommended side dishes?
It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a tossed green salad, and fresh fruit.
How many main ingredients are required?
There are 5 main ingredients: chicken, black pepper, pesto, mozzarella, and roasted red peppers.
Is this recipe considered difficult?
No, it is tagged as an easy recipe that is simple to prepare.
Can I use this recipe for a festive gathering?
Yes, the dish is designed to impress guests and is suitable for both casual and festive occasions.
What flavor profile can I expect?
Expect a combination of juicy grilled chicken, creamy mozzarella, vibrant pesto, and sweet roasted red peppers.
Should I season the inside or outside of the chicken?
The recipe instructs to season both sides of the chicken breast with black pepper and coat the outside with pesto.
Can this be made on a charcoal grill?
Yes, if using charcoal, ensure you oil the grill before heating.
How much black pepper is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 tablespoon of fresh ground black pepper.
Can I use chicken with skin?
The recipe specifically calls for boneless skinless chicken breasts to facilitate the creation of the pockets.
What if the stuffing falls out while grilling?
The recipe suggests packing the pockets well and flipping carefully to keep the ingredients inside.
How should the chicken be served?
It should be served hot immediately after grilling for the best flavor and texture.