Description
Pesto chicken is a delightful dish that transforms a simple weeknight meal into a gourmet experience. This recipe features tender, boneless chicken breasts coated in a vibrant homemade pesto sauce made from fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The result is a flavorful and aromatic dish that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy families or those looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether served over pasta, alongside roasted vegetables, or enjoyed on its own, this pesto chicken guarantees satisfaction and will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a food processor, blend basil, pine nuts, garlic, lemon juice, and Parmesan. Gradually add olive oil until smooth.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. Place in a baking dish and spread the pesto over each breast.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Allow resting for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in pesto for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Swap pine nuts for walnuts or almonds based on preference.
- Serve with garlic bread or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg