A quick and delicious French bread pizza topped with tender chicken, vibrant basil pesto, fresh mozzarella, and ripe tomatoes. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or casual gathering.
1 loaf French bread, sliced in half lengthwise
1/2 cup basil pesto
1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (about 8 leaves)
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the French bread halves cut side up on a baking sheet.
Brush the cut sides of the French bread with olive oil evenly.
Spread 1/4 cup of basil pesto evenly over each bread half.
Distribute the shredded cooked chicken evenly over the pesto on both halves.
Arrange the thin tomato slices evenly over the chicken on both halves.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the tomato slices.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the mozzarella.
Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread edges are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool for 2 minutes.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves before slicing and serving.