Description
Easy Baked Pesto Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with vibrant pesto, creating a tender and aromatic meal. The pesto enhances the chicken’s flavor, making it an easy and quick option for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
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 shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- Spread a generous amount of pesto on top of each chicken breast, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- If using mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, sprinkle them over the pesto-coated chicken for a cheesy, golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is cooked through. The pesto should be bubbly and slightly golden.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
- Serve your Easy Baked Pesto Chicken with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, a side salad, or pasta.
Notes
For extra flavor, try using homemade pesto or adding lemon zest to the pesto for a citrusy twist.Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option.For a spicier variation, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto.To make this dish gluten-free, ensure your pesto is gluten-free and serve with a gluten-free side like rice or quinoa.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
