Pesto Chicken Recipe

Pesto chicken recipe is a delightful combination of savory, herby pesto sauce and tender, juicy chicken breasts. It’s a simple yet flavorful meal that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Whether served over pasta, rice, or with a side of vegetables, this recipe is a winner for anyone who enjoys a burst of fresh, zesty flavors.

Brief History of Pesto Chicken:

Pesto originated in the Liguria region of Italy, specifically from the city of Genoa. Traditionally made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, pesto has been a beloved Italian sauce for centuries. It’s commonly used to dress pasta, but its versatility has led to other delicious creations, such as pesto chicken. By marinating or coating chicken with pesto, this dish marries the freshness of the sauce with the savory qualities of the meat, creating a harmonious blend of Italian-inspired flavors.

Pesto Chicken Recipe

Pinklady

Pesto originated in the Liguria region of Italy, specifically from the city of Genoa. Traditionally made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, pesto has been a beloved Italian sauce for centuries. It’s commonly used to dress pasta, but its versatility has led to other delicious creations, such as pesto chicken.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)

Ingredients

  

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought basil pesto
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

See also  Swiss Steak Recipe

Instructions

 

• Begin by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. If your chicken breasts are thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts.
• Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Spoon the pesto sauce over each chicken breast, making sure they are generously coated.
• Let the pesto warm up in the skillet for about 2-3 minutes. The heat will help the flavors meld into the chicken.
• f you want to add a cheesy element, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella over the pesto-coated chicken. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for about 2 minutes.
• Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and garnish with fresh basil leaves and lemon wedges. Serve it with your favorite side dish, such as pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Video

Keyword Pesto Chicken Recipe

Similar Recipes You’ll Love:

– Pesto Pasta: Toss pasta with pesto for a quick and delicious meal.
– Basil Pesto Pizza: Spread pesto over pizza dough, top with mozzarella and tomatoes, and bake.
– Caprese Chicken: Another Italian-inspired dish with mozzarella, tomatoes, and fresh basil.
– Lemon Herb Chicken: For a zesty alternative, try this lemony chicken recipe.
– Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri: A fresh twist using chimichurri sauce instead of pesto.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pesto Chicken Recipe:

1. Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly fine, but homemade pesto will provide a fresher and more authentic taste.

2. What can I serve with pesto chicken?

Pesto chicken pairs well with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

3. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s properly cooked.

4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, though they may take slightly longer to cook.

5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the mozzarella cheese and ensure the pesto you use is dairy-free (some versions contain Parmesan).

6. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover pesto chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

7. Can I freeze pesto chicken?

Yes, you can freeze cooked pesto chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

8. What’s the best way to reheat pesto chicken?

Reheat pesto chicken in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Add a little water or broth to keep it moist.

9. Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it?

Absolutely! Grilling the chicken adds a nice smoky flavor. Just coat the grilled chicken with pesto after cooking.

10. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, pesto chicken is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your pesto sauce doesn’t contain any gluten-based additives.

Conclusion:

Pesto chicken is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that brings the fresh and aromatic flavors of basil pesto to your dinner table. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, pesto chicken is a great go-to recipe.

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