Pesto Chicken Recipe (with Video)

Pesto Chicken Recipe: Are you looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy dinner recipe? Look no further than this Pesto Chicken Recipe! Packed with rich flavors, creamy textures, and a hint of freshness, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this step-by-step guide will make cooking pesto chicken a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Pesto Chicken Recipe

• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Healthy and Nutritious – High in protein and loaded with healthy fats from the pesto.
• Versatile – Perfect for salads, sandwiches, wraps, or pasta.
• Crowd-Pleaser – A hit with kids and adults alike.

This recipe is customizable to fit your taste preferences, dietary restrictions, and cooking methods, making it an all-around winner!

Ingredients for Pesto Chicken

Fresh Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts – 4 medium-sized, boneless, and skinless.
• Cherry Tomatoes – 1 cup, halved.
• Mozzarella Cheese – 1 cup, shredded or fresh slices.
• Fresh Basil Leaves – For garnish.

Pesto Sauce

• Store-Bought Pesto – 1 cup for convenience.
• OR

Homemade Pesto Ingredients:

• Fresh Basil – 2 cups.
• Pine Nuts – 1/3 cup.
• Parmesan Cheese – 1/2 cup, grated.
• Garlic – 2 cloves.
• Olive Oil – 1/2 cup.
• Salt and Pepper – To taste.

Optional Add-ons

• Red pepper flakes for spice.
• Lemon zest for brightness.
• Spinach for added greens.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls.
• Cutting board and sharp knife.
• Food processor or blender (if making homemade pesto).
• Baking dish or skillet.
• Tongs and spatula.
• Measuring cups and spoons.

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Cleaning and Trimming the Chicken

Start by rinsing the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Trim off any excess fat to keep the meat lean.

Seasoning for Flavor

• Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board.
• Lightly season both sides with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder for added flavor.
• For a juicier texture, you can pound the chicken to an even thickness using a meat mallet.

Let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes to absorb the seasoning before marinating.

Step 2: Making the Pesto Sauce (Optional Homemade Version)

If you’re opting for homemade pesto, here’s how to create a fresh, aromatic sauce:

Ingredients for Homemade Pesto:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves.
• 1/3 cup pine nuts (toasted for extra flavor).
• 2 cloves garlic, minced.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• 1/2 cup olive oil.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Blending the Perfect Pesto Sauce:

1. Add basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan to a food processor.
2. Pulse until finely chopped.
3. Gradually add olive oil while the processor runs until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper, and your pesto is ready!

Step 3: Marinating the Chicken with Pesto

1. Place the chicken breasts in a mixing bowl or a resealable bag.
2. Pour about 1 cup of pesto sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Marinating enhances the taste, making every bite burst with flavor.

Step 4: Cooking Methods – Oven-Baked, Pan-Seared, or Grilled

Oven-Baked Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange marinated chicken in a baking dish.
3. Top each piece with sliced mozzarella and cherry tomatoes.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).

Pan-Seared Method:

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Add mozzarella on top and cover the skillet until melted.

Grilled Method:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side.
3. Add mozzarella during the last minute and close the lid to melt it.

Step 5: Adding Cheese for Extra Flavor

For a creamy, rich finish, use fresh mozzarella slices. Place them on top of the chicken during the final few minutes of cooking, allowing them to melt beautifully.

Sprinkle grated Parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes for added depth.

Step 6: Final Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

Serving with Sides:

• Pair with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or pasta.
• Serve over a bed of fresh spinach or arugula for a low-carb option.

Plating Tips:

• Add a drizzle of pesto sauce on the plate for decoration.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves and lemon wedges for brightness.

Tips for Perfect Pesto Chicken Every Time

Want to make sure your pesto chicken turns out perfect every single time? Here are some handy tips:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients – Always opt for fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan when making homemade pesto. It makes a world of difference in flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Overcooked chicken becomes dry and chewy. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. Marinate for Longer Flavor – Let the chicken sit in pesto marinade for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better.
4. Rest the Chicken Before Serving – After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain its juices, keeping it moist and flavorful.
5. Layer Flavors – Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh basil just before serving for an extra punch of flavor.

Health Benefits of Pesto Chicken

If you’re looking for a nutritious meal that’s also delicious, pesto chicken fits the bill perfectly.

• High in Protein – Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which supports muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in Healthy Fats – The olive oil and pine nuts in pesto provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly – Perfect for low-carb and ketogenic diets. Pair it with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Packed with Antioxidants – Basil, the main ingredient in pesto, is loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Calcium and Vitamins – Parmesan cheese offers calcium, while tomatoes add vitamin C and potassium.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the simplest recipes can sometimes go wrong if you’re not careful. Avoid these common mistakes when making pesto chicken:

1. Using Too Much Pesto – While pesto adds flavor, drowning the chicken in sauce can overpower it. Stick to just enough to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Skipping the Marination Step – Marinating allows the flavors to soak in. Don’t rush this step!
3. Cooking at the Wrong Temperature – Baking at a lower temperature than recommended can result in undercooked chicken, while higher temperatures may burn it.
4. Not Covering the Chicken While Baking – If the chicken starts to dry out, covering it with foil can help keep it juicy.
5. Forgetting to Taste Test – Always taste-test the pesto and adjust the seasoning before adding it to the chicken.

Variations of Pesto Chicken

One of the best parts about pesto chicken is its versatility. Here are some fun variations to try:

1. Pesto Chicken Pasta
   • Slice cooked pesto chicken and toss it with pasta, extra pesto, and cherry tomatoes.
2. Stuffed Pesto Chicken
   • Butterfly the chicken breasts and stuff them with mozzarella and spinach before marinating in pesto.
3. Pesto Chicken Sandwich
   • Slice the chicken and add it to a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise.
4. Pesto Chicken Salad
   • Dice the cooked chicken and mix it into a salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a balsamic glaze.
5. Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake
   • Mix pesto with cream cheese and layer it over chicken in a baking dish, then bake until bubbly and golden.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers? No problem!

• Refrigeration: Store leftover pesto chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken in a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating:
  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
  • Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes or until heated through.
  • Skillet: Reheat on low heat with a drizzle of olive oil to keep it moist.

FAQs about Pesto Chicken Recipe

1. What ingredients do I need for a basic Pesto Chicken recipe?

To make Pesto Chicken, you’ll need chicken breasts or thighs, store-bought or homemade pesto sauce, olive oil, salt, pepper, and optionally, grated Parmesan cheese and cherry tomatoes for garnish.

2. How long does it take to cook Pesto Chicken?

Typically, Pesto Chicken can be prepared and cooked in about 20-30 minutes. This includes searing the chicken and then baking it in the oven if desired for a juicier finish.

3. Can I make Pesto Chicken in a slow cooker?

Yes, Pesto Chicken is great for slow cooking. Place your chicken and pesto in the slow cooker, set it on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. This method is perfect for tender and flavorful chicken.

4. What sides pair well with Pesto Chicken?

Pesto Chicken pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. For a low-carb option, consider steamed vegetables or zucchini noodles.

5. Is Pesto Chicken healthy?

Pesto Chicken can be a healthy dish, especially if you use homemade pesto made with fresh basil, nuts, and olive oil, which are good sources of healthy fats and antioxidants. Be mindful of the oil and cheese content if you’re watching your calorie intake.

6. Can I store leftover Pesto Chicken?

Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.

7. Are there any variations I can try with Pesto Chicken?

Certainly! You can add a variety of vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini during baking, or experiment with different types of nuts in your pesto for new flavors. Adding a squeeze of lemon can also enhance the freshness of the dish.

Conclusion

Pesto chicken is a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. From the juicy chicken to the creamy pesto and melted mozzarella, every bite is bursting with flavor. Plus, its versatility makes it easy to customize and pair with your favorite sides.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to experiment with different variations to keep things exciting. Enjoy your homemade pesto chicken, and let us know how it turned out!