Chicken Pesto
Chicken Pesto is a vibrant and flavorful dish that elevates any meal. With its creamy basil pesto, tender chicken, and rich cheese, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Impress your family and friends with an easy-to-make dish that combines fresh ingredients and delightful aromas. Whether served over pasta or enjoyed on its own, Chicken Pesto is sure to become a favorite in your household.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup pine nuts, toasted
- 3 garlic cloves
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- To prepare the pesto, blend basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, and Parmesan cheese in a food processor until finely chopped. Gradually add olive oil while blending until smooth.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear each side of the chicken breasts for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer seared chicken to the prepared baking dish, spoon pesto over each piece, and bake for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with pasta or vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with pesto (250g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 130mg