Pesto Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pesto Chicken is a delicious way to elevate your usual chicken routine. The pesto, made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan, adds incredible flavor that complements the mild chicken beautifully. It’s an easy one-pan dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it with vegetables, over rice, or with pasta for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought pesto (see note below for ingredients)

• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

For the Pesto:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves

• 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)

• 2 cloves garlic

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Chicken:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking or heat a large skillet over medium-high heat if pan-searing.

2. Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

3. Baking: Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet and spread a thin layer of pesto on top of each chicken breast. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

   Pan-Seared: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through. After flipping the chicken, spread a spoonful of pesto on top of each chicken breast and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm the pesto.

4. Remove the chicken from the oven or skillet and top with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

For the Pesto (if making homemade):

1. In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.

2. With the food processor running, slowly stream in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.

3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20-25 minutes if baking, or 12-15 minutes if pan-searing, making the total time about 30 minutes.

Variations

• Pesto Variations: Try substituting basil with other herbs like parsley, spinach, or arugula for a different flavor profile.

• Chicken Thighs: Swap out the chicken breasts for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for extra flavor and juiciness.

• Grilled Pesto Chicken: For a smoky twist, grill the chicken instead of baking or pan-searing.

• Vegan Version: Use grilled or baked tofu instead of chicken and substitute vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast in the pesto.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover pesto chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. If reheating chicken in the oven, cover it with foil to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, you can use store-bought pesto for convenience. Just make sure it’s high-quality, or consider making a quick homemade version using basil, olive oil, garlic, and nuts.

Can I make the pesto ahead of time?

Absolutely! Pesto can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Just be sure to cover it with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation and keep it fresh.

Can I make this dish with chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, and they work wonderfully with pesto. You may need to adjust the cooking time based on the size of the thighs.

How can I serve pesto chicken?

Pesto chicken can be served with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, sautéed spinach, pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply skip the Parmesan cheese in the pesto and use a dairy-free alternative if desired.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Can I freeze pesto chicken?

You can freeze cooked chicken, but it’s best to freeze the chicken separately from the pesto. When reheating, add fresh pesto to the chicken for the best flavor.

What other nuts can I use for the pesto?

Walnuts, almonds, or cashews are great alternatives to pine nuts in pesto. Each nut will provide a slightly different flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure you’re using gluten-free pesto if using store-bought pesto.

Conclusion

Pesto Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings a burst of freshness and vibrant herbs to your dinner table. Whether you choose to bake, pan-sear, or grill the chicken, the pesto elevates the meal with its aromatic richness. Quick, healthy, and versatile, this recipe is a great option for busy nights or whenever you want a meal that’s both simple and delicious.