Description
Pesto chicken is a delightful meal that perfectly balances fresh flavors and hearty satisfaction. This quick and easy dish features tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a vibrant homemade pesto made from fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. In less than an hour, you can prepare this impressive dish that’s ideal for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Serve it alongside pasta, rice, or a crisp salad for a complete dining experience sure to impress family and friends. Each bite offers a rich explosion of flavor that elevates your dinner table with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Pat dry the chicken breasts and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a blender, combine basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice; blend until smooth.
- Spread half of the pesto over the seasoned chicken in the baking dish; reserve the remaining pesto.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Allow the chicken to rest before serving; drizzle with reserved pesto.
Notes
For added flavor, marinate chicken in pesto for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Feel free to add vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach to the baking dish for extra nutrition.
Consider using homemade pesto for an elevated taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (150g)
- Calories: 328
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 95mg