Mediterranean Pesto Chicken Flatbread with Mozzarella

Mediterranean Pesto Chicken Flatbread with Mozzarella

Mediterranean Pesto Chicken Flatbread with Mozzarella is a quick and flavorful meal that brings together juicy chicken, fresh basil pesto, creamy mozzarella, and Mediterranean toppings on a crispy flatbread. It’s the perfect choice for lunch, dinner, or an easy appetizer that feels gourmet but is ready in under 30 minutes. This flatbread recipe combines the comfort of melted cheese and warm bread with the brightness of Mediterranean flavors like olives, tomatoes, and herbs.

Total Time:

Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 10-12 minutes
Total: 25-27 minutes
Servings: 2-3 (makes 2 flatbreads)

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 200-250g)

1 tbsp olive oil

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp dried oregano

Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Flatbreads:

2 store-bought or homemade flatbreads (naan or pita work well)

1/3 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (fresh mozzarella slices also work)

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional for extra tang)

1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced

2 tbsp pine nuts (optional, for crunch)

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

1 tbsp balsamic glaze or reduction, for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Chicken:

Slice the chicken breast into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Season the chicken with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly golden. Remove from heat.

Assemble the Flatbreads:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or set your broiler to high for faster cooking.

Place the flatbreads on a baking sheet.

Spread basil pesto evenly over each flatbread.

Top with mozzarella cheese, followed by the cooked chicken.

Add cherry tomatoes, olives, red onion slices, and pine nuts.

Bake the Flatbreads:

Bake in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges of the flatbread are golden and crisp.

(If using the broiler, watch closely and bake for 3-5 minutes until bubbly.)

Finish & Serve:

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with feta cheese (if using) and fresh basil leaves.

Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet finish (optional but recommended).

Slice into pieces and serve warm.

Optional Additions:

Arugula or baby spinach on top after baking

Sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth

Roasted red peppers for sweetness

A squeeze of fresh lemon before serving for brightness

Tips & Variations 

Tips:

Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: For faster prep, use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken. Just toss it in olive oil and seasonings for extra flavor.

Crispier Flatbread: For extra crunch, pre-bake the flatbread for 2-3 minutes before adding toppings.

Homemade Pesto Option: Make your own basil pesto with fresh basil, olive oil, garlic, Parmesan, pine nuts, and lemon juice for the freshest taste.

Cheese Options: Mix mozzarella with fontina, provolone, or a little Parmesan for a cheese blend.

Balsamic Glaze Shortcut: Use store-bought balsamic glaze or reduce balsamic vinegar in a small pan until syrupy.

Variations:

Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and load up on roasted veggies like zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms.

Low-Carb Option: Use a cauliflower flatbread or wrap base.

Greek Twist: Add tzatziki drizzle after baking for a cool, creamy contrast.

Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle with calabrian chili oil for heat.

Seafood Alternative: Replace chicken with grilled shrimp or salmon chunks.

Q&A

Q: Can I make this flatbread ahead of time?
A: You can prep the toppings and cook the chicken in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving to keep the flatbread crispy.

Q: What flatbread works best?
A: Use naan, pita, lavash, or any thin flatbread. For ultra-thin crust, try tortilla flatbreads.

Q: Can I freeze the flatbread?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze baked flatbread (without fresh toppings) for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until warm.

Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Yes! Kids usually love cheesy flatbreads. You can reduce the onions or olives if preferred.

Nutrition Facts (Per Flatbread Approximate)

Note: Values will vary based on flatbread type and cheese portions.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Pesto Chicken Flatbread with Mozzarella is a vibrant, quick, and satisfying meal that combines the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean with cheesy, crispy comfort. It’s customizable, perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining, and easily adapted for different dietary needs. Whether you serve it as a main dish, appetizer, or party food, this flatbread delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.