Description
This Easy Pesto Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts baked to perfection with a vibrant homemade basil pesto. Combining fresh basil, grated Parmesan, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice, the aromatic pesto infuses the chicken with bold flavors. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a simple yet satisfying main dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pesto
- 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 and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
- Make the Pesto: In a blender, combine basil leaves, garlic cloves, grated Parmesan cheese, extra virgin olive oil, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Blend until the mixture becomes a smooth, vibrant green pesto sauce.
- Coat Chicken with Pesto: Spread half of the prepared pesto evenly over the seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish; reserve the remaining pesto for serving.
- Bake the 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’s fully cooked and juicy.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes to retain its juices. Before serving, drizzle the reserved pesto over the chicken for an extra burst of fresh flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute the Parmesan with a vegetarian hard cheese if desired.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through using a meat thermometer for food safety.
- Leftover pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- To make the pesto nut-free, omit nuts typically used and rely solely on cheese and herbs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
