Pesto Chicken Garlic Bread Boats (Printable)

Hollowed garlic bread boats filled with pesto chicken and mozzarella, baked until golden and bubbly.

# Ingredient List:

→ 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, store-bought or homemade
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:

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, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. Spread this mixture evenly inside each bread boat.
04 - Place bread boats in the oven for 5 minutes until just beginning to crisp.
05 - In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken, pesto, mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, black pepper, and salt. Mix until well coated.
06 - Spoon the pesto chicken mixture evenly into the toasted bread boats. Top with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
07 - Return 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.
08 - Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Slice into portions and garnish with fresh basil if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Crowd-Pleaser: It combines the comfort of garlic bread with the heartiness of a main dish.
  • Quick Prep: With only 15 minutes of preparation time, it's an easy win for busy schedules.
  • Texture Heaven: The double-bake method ensures a crispy crust while keeping the cheese perfectly bubbly and melted.
02 -
  • Hollow with Care: Leave about 1/2 inch of bread on the sides and bottom to ensure the 'boat' remains sturdy enough to hold the filling.
  • Prevent Sogginess: Don't skip the initial toast; it creates a barrier that keeps the bread crisp after the filling is added.
  • Clean Slices: Let the boats cool slightly before cutting; this allows the cheese to set and ensures cleaner portions.
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