Trader Joe's Pesto Chicken Bake

This is another super easy weeknight meal that everybody loves. AND it is all at Trader Joe's - so not only is it easy, but it is also affordable. In full disclosure, this one takes a little bit longer than the 30 minutes of my typical weeknight meals by 5-10 minutes, but the time is in the oven and not for prep. The recipe I found online was a little too cheesy and a little bland, so I have added red pepper flakes and halved the cheese in my version. I sliced the leftover chicken and used it on my salad for the lunch the next day, and it was great. Enjoy!

Pesto Chicken Bake
 (an easy Trader Joe's Recipe)
​
INGREDIENTS:

• 1 package of Trader Joe’s Pesto Chicken
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 Cup cherry tomatoes
• ½ to 1 Cup Mozzarella pearls (to taste, or can also substitute mozzarella slices)
• Balsamic vinegar
• Arugula
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes, to taste
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• one package of pasta (I chose spaghetti)
  

 
PREPARATION:
1.  Preheat oven to 350 F.

2.  Add pesto chicken in one layer to a greased baking dish.

3.  Add mozzarella, tomatoes, and red pepper to taste and bake for 30 - 35 minutes, until done.

4.  Lightly toss the arugula with olive oil, and salt & pepper.

5. Cook the pasta according the the package directions.

6.  When chicken is done, plate with pasta. Top the pasta with a handful of the arugula, then the chicken, and top with a drizzle of balsamic.