Experience the vibrant flavors of our Pesto Chicken Recipe, where succulent chicken meets fresh basil pesto for a delicious and easy meal. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at a dinner party. Serve it with pasta or salad for a complete meal that bursts with flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
Here is the list of ingredients.
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken breast with pesto) contains approximately 350 calories, 25g protein, 20g fat, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
- Spread a generous amount of pesto over each chicken breast.
- Sprinkle pine nuts on top of the pesto.
- Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve on a bed of pasta or with a side salad.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier option, and use store-bought pesto if you’re short on time. For a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan in the pesto.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a crisp Caesar salad. A light white wine also complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. This dish can be frozen; just ensure it’s well-wrapped.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the chicken; it will become dry.
- Ensure the pesto is fresh for the best flavor.
- Do not skip resting the chicken after baking.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before searing.
- Don’t rush the marinating process; let it sit for better flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use homemade pesto for a fresher taste.
- Add cherry tomatoes for a pop of color.
- Experiment with different nuts in the pesto.
- Serve with lemon wedges for extra brightness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking to achieve even doneness.
What type of pesto should I use?
You can use traditional basil pesto or any variation, such as sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto, to suit your taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to the pesto or sprinkle some on the chicken before baking for a spicy kick.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken in pesto several hours in advance, making it a quick option for dinner.
What can I serve with pesto chicken?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad, making it versatile for any meal.
Conclusion
Our Pesto Chicken Recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that is both simple and satisfying. Perfect for any occasion, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy the vibrant taste and ease of preparation that this recipe brings to your kitchen.
Pesto Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup pesto sauce
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Olive oil for searing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
- Spread a generous amount of pesto over each chicken breast.
- Sprinkle pine nuts on top of the pesto.
- Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve on a bed of pasta or with a side salad.