Pesto Chicken Garlic Bread Boats (Printer View)

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

# Components:

→ 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

# 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, 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 and toast 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.
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 oven and let cool slightly. Slice into portions and garnish with fresh basil if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • These boats combine three beloved flavors—garlic bread, pesto, and cheesy chicken—in one handheld treat.
  • Ready in just 35 minutes, they're perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings.
  • The hollow bread boats create the perfect vessel for holding the creamy, savory filling.
  • Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer for a crowd or a main dish for family dinner.
02 -
  • Substitute rotisserie chicken for a quick 10-minute preparation shortcut.
  • The bread boats can be prepared and hollowed out up to a day in advance—just store in an airtight container.
  • For extra flavor, brush the outer crust with olive oil and a sprinkle of garlic salt before the final bake.
  • If your bread is getting too brown but the filling needs more time, loosely cover with foil for the remaining bake time.
  • These boats freeze beautifully—prepare through assembly then freeze unbaked for an easy make-ahead meal.
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