Description
This Easy Pesto Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts baked to perfection and topped with a fresh, vibrant homemade basil pesto. It’s a simple and flavorful dish ready in about 40 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pesto Sauce
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove moisture, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Make Pesto: In a blender, combine fresh basil leaves, garlic cloves, grated Parmesan cheese, extra virgin olive oil, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Blend the ingredients until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined.
- Apply Pesto: Spread half of the prepared pesto evenly over the seasoned chicken breasts placed in the baking dish. Keep the remaining pesto to use as a finishing drizzle later.
- Bake Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest and Serve: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Drizzle the reserved pesto over the chicken before serving to add fresh flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs if preferred, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Use fresh basil for the best flavor; dried basil will not give the same vibrant taste.
- If you desire a creamier pesto, you may add a handful of pine nuts or walnuts while blending.
- Serve with pasta, salad, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Leftover pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
