Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Baked Pesto Chicken is a simple, no-fuss recipe that packs a punch of flavor. The chicken comes out juicy and tender while the pesto sauce adds a vibrant, herby, and slightly tangy twist. It’s a versatile recipe that can be served with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to pasta or rice. The best part is that it’s made with just a few ingredients, and you can easily use store-bought pesto or homemade, saving you time without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

  • Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

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

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

  2. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This will help the pesto stick to the chicken better. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

  3. Apply the pesto: Spread a generous amount of pesto on top of each chicken breast, making sure it’s evenly coated. If you like extra pesto, feel free to add more. You can also spread a thin layer of olive oil on the chicken before applying the pesto for added richness.

  4. Bake the chicken: Place the pesto-coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be golden on top and the pesto should have slightly crisped around the edges.

  5. Add Parmesan (optional): For extra flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of each chicken breast about 5 minutes before the chicken is done baking. Return it to the oven and bake for the remaining time, allowing the cheese to melt and become bubbly.

  6. Serve: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes

  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

  • Use Chicken Thighs: For a juicier, more flavorful option, use bone-in or boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as chicken thighs may take a little longer to cook.

  • Cheese Options: If you prefer a different type of cheese, you can use mozzarella or goat cheese instead of Parmesan for a unique twist.

  • Stuffed Pesto Chicken: For a more indulgent dish, stuff the chicken breasts with a mixture of pesto and cream cheese or mozzarella before baking.

  • Grilled Pesto Chicken: If you’re in the mood for grilling, you can cook the pesto-coated chicken on the grill over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side.

  • Add Veggies: Toss some sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes into the baking dish for a one-pan meal. The veggies will roast alongside the chicken, soaking up the pesto flavors.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The pesto will keep the chicken flavorful and moist.

  • Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and coat it with pesto in advance. Store the pesto-coated chicken breasts in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, just bake as directed.

Can I use homemade pesto?

Absolutely! Homemade pesto made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan will make this dish even more delicious. Use about 1/2 cup of homemade pesto for the best results.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, you can use this same pesto method for other proteins like turkey breasts,  or even salmon. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose.

What sides should I serve with pesto chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, pasta (try tossing the pasta with extra pesto), rice, or a simple side salad. You could also serve it with some garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I freeze leftover pesto chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover pesto chicken. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I make this dish with a different type of pesto?

Yes! You can make this dish with different types of pesto, like sun-dried tomato pesto, arugula pesto, or even walnut pesto, for a unique flavor profile.

Conclusion

Easy Baked Pesto Chicken is a flavorful and simple dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household. With its tender, juicy chicken coated in a vibrant pesto sauce and topped with melted Parmesan, this dish is as satisfying as it is easy to prepare. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress everyone with its bright flavors and simple preparation. Enjoy this delightful meal with your favorite sides for a complete, delicious dinner!

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Easy Baked Pesto Chicken

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  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Yield: undefined
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
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Description

Easy Baked Pesto Chicken combines tender chicken breasts with vibrant pesto, creating a flavorful and simple dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or any occasion. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, it’s both delicious and satisfying.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
  • Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a baking dish with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. Apply the pesto: Spread a generous amount of pesto on each chicken breast. Optionally, spread a thin layer of olive oil before applying pesto for added richness.
  4. Bake the chicken: Place the pesto-coated chicken breasts in the baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is golden and juicy.
  5. Add Parmesan (optional): Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken 5 minutes before the end of baking, allowing it to melt and become bubbly.
  6. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

Use chicken thighs: For a juicier option, use boneless or bone-in chicken thighs, adjusting the cooking time.Cheese alternatives: Try mozzarella or goat cheese instead of Parmesan for a different flavor.Grilled version: You can grill pesto-coated chicken on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side.Vegetable add-ins: Roast vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes alongside the chicken for a one-pan meal.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
  • Calories: Approximately 350-400
  • Sugar: Varies based on pesto used
  • Sodium: Varies depending on pesto
  • Fat: Approx. 20-25g
  • Saturated Fat: Approx. 4-5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: Varies
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: Varies based on pesto
  • Fiber: 1-2g
  • Protein: 30-35g
  • Cholesterol: Varies

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