Pesto Chicken Garlic Bread Boats (Printer-Friendly)

Crispy bread boats filled with seasoned pesto chicken and melted cheese, 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

# Method:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - 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.
03 - In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt until combined.
04 - Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly inside each bread boat.
05 - Toast the bread boats in the oven for 5 minutes until they just begin to crisp.
06 - In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken, pesto, mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, black pepper, and salt. Mix until all ingredients are well coated.
07 - Spoon the pesto chicken mixture evenly into the toasted bread boats. Top with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
08 - 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 brown.
09 - Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Slice into portions and garnish with fresh basil if desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Simple and quick with a total time of only 35 minutes.
  • Versatile enough to serve as a hearty snack, appetizer, or a full meal.
  • Packed with savory flavors from fresh garlic, basil pesto, and two types of cheese.
02 -
  • Leave at least 1/2 inch of bread when hollowing the baguettes to ensure the boat is sturdy enough to hold the filling.
  • Allow the boats to cool for a few minutes after baking to make slicing easier and to prevent the cheese from sliding.
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