Description
This easy Pesto Chicken Recipe features tender, juicy chicken coated in rich basil pesto, then baked, grilled, or pan-seared to perfection. A quick, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (optional)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Marinate: Coat the chicken with basil pesto, ensuring even coverage. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
- Cooking Methods:
- Baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until fully cooked.
- Grilling: Heat a grill to medium-high. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Pan-Searing: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If using mozzarella, place slices on top of the chicken in the last 5 minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt.
- Serve: Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and garnish with cherry tomatoes for extra freshness. Pair with pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free pesto or make your own with nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Spicy Pesto Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a bit of heat.
- Pesto Chicken Pasta: Slice the cooked chicken and mix it with your favorite pasta and extra pesto.
- Stuffed Pesto Chicken: Slice a pocket into the chicken breasts and stuff with mozzarella and sun-dried tomatoes before cooking.
- Air Fryer Method: Cook the marinated chicken in an air fryer at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- marinate time: 15-60 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Baking, Grilling, Pan-Searing
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: italian
Keywords: Pesto Chicken, Easy Chicken Recipe, Basil Pesto Chicken, Healthy Chicken Dinner, Quick Chicken Recipe