Pesto Chicken Garlic Bread Boats (Print Version)

Crispy bread boats filled with pesto chicken and melted mozzarella, baked to golden perfection.

# What You'll Need:

→ Garlic Bread

01 - 2 large demi-baguettes or Italian sandwich rolls
02 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
03 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
04 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
05 - Pinch of salt

→ Pesto Chicken Filling

06 - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
07 - 1/3 cup basil pesto
08 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Assembly

11 - 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
12 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 - Fresh basil leaves for garnish, optional

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice each baguette in half lengthwise, leaving a hinge if possible. Gently hollow out the soft bread center to create a well, leaving approximately 1/2 inch of bread on the sides and bottom.
02 - In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. Spread this mixture evenly inside each bread boat.
03 - Toast the bread boats in the oven for 5 minutes until just beginning to crisp.
04 - In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken, pesto, mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, black pepper, and salt. Mix until well coated.
05 - Spoon the pesto chicken mixture evenly into the toasted bread boats. Top with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
06 - Return the filled bread boats to the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the edges are golden.
07 - Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then slice into portions. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Fast Prep: Ready in just 35 minutes using simple pantry staples.
  • Perfect for Groups: Yields 4 large boats that can be served as a main or sliced into 8 appetizer portions.
  • Incredible Texture: Combines a crispy, garlic-buttered crust with a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth filling.
02 -
  • Double Toasting: Never skip the initial 5-minute toast with garlic butter; it creates a moisture barrier that prevents the bread from getting soggy.
  • Allergen Check: Be sure to verify that your pesto is nut-free if serving to someone with allergies, and check your mayonnaise for egg content.
  • Cheese Check: Use freshly shredded mozzarella for the best melt and stretch.
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