Pesto Chicken Recipe:
If you’re looking for a dish that’s quick, flavorful, and wholesome, this pesto chicken recipe is about to become your go-to weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are smothered in vibrant basil pesto, baked to juicy perfection, and finished with a cheesy golden topping. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—you only need a handful of ingredients and less than 30 minutes to bring it all together. Whether you’re serving it with pasta, rice, or a crisp salad, this dish is a family favorite that never disappoints.
Pesto chicken recipe
Equipment
- 1 Oven for baking the chicken evenly.
- 1 Baking dish / casserole dish to hold the chicken breasts and pesto sauce.
- 1 Cutting board for prepping chicken and optional garnishes.
- 1 Chef’s knife to trim chicken breasts or slice after cooking.
- 1 Measuring spoons & cups to measure pesto, cheese, and olive oil.
- 1 Tongs or spatula for placing and serving the chicken easily.
- 1 Aluminum foil (optional) to cover the dish if you want to prevent over-browning.
- 1 Meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts1 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)1 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan1 tbsp olive oilSalt & pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F.Spread pesto at the bottom of a baking dish.Place chicken breasts, season with salt & pepper.Smother with pesto, sprinkle cheese.Bake 20–25 minutes until internal temp is 165°F.
Notes
Nutrition
Why This Pesto Chicken Recipe Works
Table of content
Table of Contents
The Power of Pesto in Chicken Dishes
Pesto is one of those magical sauces that transforms simple chicken into something truly sensational. Its fresh basil aroma, nutty pine nuts, and sharp Parmesan notes balance perfectly with the mild flavor of chicken breast. When baked, the oils from the pesto seep into the chicken, keeping it juicy and infusing every bite with bold flavor.
This pesto chicken recipe is versatile, too. You can serve it hot as a main course or slice it up for wraps and sandwiches. Many readers at Easy Meals Table rave that this is their ultimate meal-prep dish because it reheats beautifully.
Why Chicken Breast is the Best Choice
Chicken breast often gets a bad reputation for being dry, but with the right technique, it becomes incredibly tender. The secret is smothering it in pesto before baking, which locks in moisture and creates a protective layer. For even more juiciness, you can lightly pound the chicken to even thickness, ensuring it cooks evenly.
Another benefit of using chicken breast in this pesto chicken recipe is how well it pairs with sides. From pasta tossed in garlic olive oil to roasted vegetables, chicken breast is a lean protein that blends seamlessly with various flavors.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Perfect Pesto Chicken
Choosing the Right Pesto
The foundation of this recipe is, of course, pesto. You can use homemade pesto with fresh basil, olive oil, garlic, Parmesan, and pine nuts. If time is tight, store-bought pesto works well too. Just make sure to select a brand that uses extra virgin olive oil and real Parmesan for the best flavor.
Pro tip: If you’re making pesto at home, toast your pine nuts before blending. This small step elevates the flavor, giving your pesto chicken recipe a nutty depth that’s irresistible.
Cooking Method That Never Fails
Here’s how to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken every time:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Spread a spoonful of pesto at the bottom of your baking dish.
- Place seasoned chicken breasts on top.
- Smother generously with more pesto.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella or Parmesan.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
The result? Juicy, tender chicken with a golden, cheesy topping. It’s a dish that looks gourmet but requires almost no effort.
Serving Ideas & Variations
Delicious Side Pairings
One of the best parts of this pesto chicken recipe is how effortlessly it pairs with sides. A few favorites include:
- Creamy mashed potatoes – comfort food at its finest.
- Zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash – perfect for a low-carb option.
- Fresh tomato and mozzarella salad – a light, Italian-inspired complement.
- Crusty garlic bread – for soaking up all that extra pesto sauce.
These sides not only round out your meal but also highlight the bright flavors of the chicken.
Creative Variations
This recipe isn’t limited to just chicken breasts. Try these variations:
- Pesto chicken thighs – juicier and richer in flavor.
- Grilled pesto chicken – perfect for summer cookouts.
- Pesto chicken pasta bake – mix pasta, chicken, and extra cheese for a crowd-pleaser.
- Pesto chicken flatbread – slice leftovers and top flatbread with cheese, then bake for a quick appetizer.
Readers at Easy Meals Table often share how much they love turning leftovers into sandwiches with a little extra pesto and fresh greens.
Storage, Reheating & Meal Prep Tips
How to Store Leftover Pesto Chicken
This recipe makes fantastic leftovers. Simply allow the chicken to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions individually in freezer bags for up to 2 months.
Best Ways to Reheat Without Drying Out
To keep your pesto chicken recipe moist when reheating:
- Oven method: Warm at 300°F for 10–12 minutes, covered with foil.
- Microwave method: Use medium power and reheat in 1-minute intervals, covering with a damp paper towel.
- Skillet method: Add a splash of chicken broth or water, cover, and warm gently.
Meal preppers love this recipe because it reheats so well while maintaining that vibrant pesto flavor. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeks when you want something healthy but quick.
1. What goes well with pesto chicken?
Pasta, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or fresh salads pair wonderfully with this pesto chicken recipe for a complete meal.
2. Can I use store-bought pesto for chicken recipes?
Yes! Store-bought pesto works perfectly in this recipe. Just choose a quality brand with olive oil and real Parmesan for the best flavor.
3. How do you keep chicken moist when baking with pesto?
Cover the chicken with plenty of pesto, bake at the right temperature, and don’t overcook. Using a meat thermometer ensures juicy results.
4. Can I make pesto chicken ahead of time and reheat it?
Absolutely. Cook it, cool it, and store it in the fridge or freezer. Reheat gently using the oven or skillet method to keep it moist.
Conclusion:
There you have it—your new favorite pesto chicken recipe, a dish that’s simple, versatile, and absolutely mouthwatering. Perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties, this recipe combines juicy chicken breasts, fragrant basil pesto, and golden melted cheese into a meal that never disappoints. It’s comfort food with a touch of Italian charm, making it both family-friendly and guest-worthy.
Now it’s your turn—grab a jar of pesto or make a fresh homemade batch, choose a side like pasta, salad, or roasted veggies, and bring this pesto chicken recipe to life in your kitchen tonight. Once you taste the incredible flavors, you’ll find yourself cooking this dish again and again.
4 thoughts on “Pesto Chicken Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Dinner You’ll Crave Again and Again”