Pesto Chicken and Fresh Mozzarella Flatbread from Seasons 52 features tender grilled chicken, vibrant basil pesto, and creamy fresh mozzarella layered on a thin, crispy flatbread, garnished with ripe tomatoes and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a flavorful, visually appealing dish.
Equipments
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Grill pan (or outdoor grill)
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Pastry brush (optional, for spreading pesto)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup basil pesto
- 2 flatbreads (store-bought or homemade)
- 6 oz (170g) fresh mozzarella cheese
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Ensure your chicken breast is boneless and skinless for even grilling and tender texture. Use fresh mozzarella cheese instead of shredded for creamy, melty layers on the flatbread. Ripe tomatoes add juiciness and sweetness that balance the basil pesto's herbaceous flavor. Drizzling balsamic glaze at the end enhances the dish with a tangy-sweet finish without overpowering the other ingredients. Your Pesto Chicken and Fresh Mozzarella Flatbread from Seasons 52 copycat menu will capture the same vibrant flavors and satisfying textures when these ingredient tips are followed.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice chicken breast into thin strips.
- In mixing bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill chicken until cooked through; set aside.
- Slice fresh mozzarella and tomatoes.
- Place flatbreads on prepared baking sheet.
- Spread basil pesto evenly over flatbreads.
- Arrange grilled chicken strips on pesto layer.
- Scatter mozzarella slices over chicken.
- Add tomato slices on top.
- Bake flatbreads for 8–10 minutes, until cheese is melted and edges are crispy.
- Remove from oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Slice and serve immediately.
Substitution
The Pesto Chicken and Fresh Mozzarella Flatbread from Seasons 52 copycat menu offers a delicate balance of flavors with grilled chicken, basil pesto, and fresh mozzarella on a crispy flatbread. If fresh mozzarella is not available, you can substitute it with a mild, creamy cheese like burrata or sliced provolone without losing much of the dish's texture and richness. When grilling chicken, use a grill pan indoors or an outdoor grill based on your kitchen setup to achieve the ideal char and juiciness. To prevent the flatbread from becoming soggy, spread pesto evenly and bake on parchment-lined baking sheets at a high temperature for a crispy base. Your best results come from using ripe, juicy tomatoes and finishing with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for enhanced sweetness and acidity.
Tips
Ensure the grill pan is properly preheated to medium-high heat before adding the chicken to achieve a nice sear without sticking. Spread the pesto evenly but sparingly to avoid soggy flatbread and enhance the flavor balance. Monitor the flatbreads closely during baking to prevent overcooking, as crispy edges form quickly under high heat. You can brush olive oil on the flatbread edges before baking for extra crispness and a golden finish.
Nutritions
Pesto Chicken and Fresh Mozzarella Flatbread is a balanced meal combining high-quality protein from grilled chicken breast with the healthy fats found in olive oil and basil pesto. Fresh mozzarella provides calcium and vitamin D, important for bone health, while ripe tomatoes contribute antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin C. This dish offers a moderate calorie content, ideal for a fulfilling meal without excess. You can enjoy this flavorful flatbread while benefiting from a nutrient-rich combination of lean protein, fresh vegetables, and heart-healthy oils.
Storage
To store leftovers of the Pesto Chicken and Fresh Mozzarella Flatbread, wrap the flatbread tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to preserve freshness and prevent drying out. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain flavor and texture. When reheating, warm your flatbread in the oven at 350degF (175degC) for about 5-7 minutes to ensure the cheese melts evenly and the crust stays crisp.
Variation or Alternatives
If fresh mozzarella is unavailable, consider using shredded mozzarella or a blend of mozzarella and provolone for similar creaminess and meltability. You may swap boneless chicken breast with chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat, adjusting grilling time accordingly. For a smoky twist, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chipotle chili powder to your chicken seasoning before grilling. Your flatbread will benefit from a quick brush of garlic-infused olive oil before spreading the pesto, enhancing the overall aroma and taste.
Allergies
Pesto Chicken and Fresh Mozzarella Flatbread contains common allergens including dairy from the fresh mozzarella cheese and tree nuts from basil pesto, which often includes pine nuts. If you have a nut allergy or lactose intolerance, you should carefully check the pesto ingredients or opt for a nut-free alternative. Your exposure to these allergens could trigger reactions ranging from mild to severe depending on your sensitivity.
Why this recipe?
Pesto Chicken and Fresh Mozzarella Flatbread from Seasons 52 is favored for its harmonious blend of fresh basil pesto, tender grilled chicken, and creamy mozzarella atop a perfectly crisp flatbread. The dish balances vibrant, herbaceous flavors with savory richness, offering a satisfying yet light dining experience. Your homemade copycat version allows control over ingredient quality and customization of flavors to match personal preferences. Recreating this favorite at home ensures a fresh, delicious meal that captures the essence of Seasons 52's inspired cuisine.