Pesto chicken blends the vibrant flavors of basil pesto with juicy chicken breasts, creating a delicious dish for any occasion. You can grill, bake, or air fry the chicken, and marinating it in pesto and mayonnaise keeps it moist and tender. Feel free to add cherry tomatoes or seasonal veggies for extra color and flavor. This meal is not only quick and simple but also offers endless variations to suit your taste. Discover more ways to enjoy it!
History
Pesto has a rich history that traces back to Genoa, Italy, where it was traditionally crafted with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
The term "pesto" comes from the Italian verb "pestare," meaning to crush or pound, reflecting its original preparation method using a mortar and pestle.
Over time, pesto evolved, becoming a versatile ingredient in various dishes, including popular chicken recipes.
As convenience foods gained traction in the late 20th century, store-bought pesto became widely available, making it easier for you to whip up a delicious chicken dinner without extensive preparation.
Today, you can enjoy countless variations of pesto, incorporating different herbs and nuts, further enriching the world of pesto chicken recipes.
Recipe
Pesto chicken is a delicious and versatile dish that combines the vibrant flavors of basil pesto with juicy chicken breasts. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, as it can be prepared in various ways, including grilling, baking, or air frying. The rich, herbaceous pesto not only enhances the taste of the chicken but also adds a beautiful green hue, making it visually appealing.
With the option to include cherry tomatoes or seasonal vegetables, you can easily customize the dish to suit your preferences.
To achieve the best results, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of pesto and mayonnaise for added moisture and tenderness. This simple step elevates the dish's flavor profile and guarantees that each bite is succulent. Serve your pesto chicken alongside pasta, rice, or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: cherry tomatoes or other vegetables
Cooking Instructions:
In a bowl, combine the pesto and mayonnaise, then season with salt and pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they're well-coated, and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
Preheat your oven to 375°F (or prepare your grill or air fryer). Arrange the marinated chicken on a baking sheet (or grill) and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 150°F. If using an air fryer, cook at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavor of your pesto chicken, consider topping it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a savory finish.
Additionally, if you choose to include vegetables, roasting cherry tomatoes alongside the chicken will add a burst of sweetness that complements the pesto beautifully. Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, guaranteeing a moist and flavorful result. Enjoy your meal!
Cooking Steps
To kick off the cooking process, you'll want to prepare your chicken breasts thoroughly by filleting or pounding them for even cooking.
Once that's done, season them with salt and pepper before searing them until they're golden brown.
After that, add pesto sauce generously and let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 1. Prepare Chicken Breasts Thoroughly
Before you start cooking, it's important to guarantee your chicken breasts are of even thickness. You can achieve this by filleting or pounding skinless chicken breasts to about ¼-inch thickness. This guarantees even cooking throughout.
Next, preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) if you plan to bake the chicken. Cook the chicken for about 30 minutes. After this, add cherry tomatoes for an additional 20 minutes of cooking. It's vital to monitor the internal temperature, verifying it reaches 150°F for safety.
Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps retain the juices, confirming your chicken remains tender and flavorful. Enjoy your perfectly prepared chicken!
Step 2. Season With Salt and Pepper
Seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper is an essential step that enhances their natural flavors and prepares them for cooking.
Start with Diamond Crystal kosher salt, which offers a balanced seasoning that won't overpower the chicken. Generously coat both sides of the chicken cutlets with freshly ground black pepper to add depth to the flavor.
This easy step creates a flavorful crust when you cook the chicken, whether you're grilling, baking, or sautéing. For an even tastier result, consider marinating the seasoned chicken in pesto.
This allows the delicious flavors to penetrate the meat, making each bite more enjoyable. Take your time with this step; it truly sets the stage for a mouthwatering dish.
Step 3. Sear Chicken Until Golden Brown
Heat your skillet over medium-high heat, creating the perfect environment for a delicious sear.
Once hot, place your seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. You don't need oil; the chicken will create its own juices.
Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes, flipping every minute to achieve a beautiful golden brown crust. This technique guarantees even cooking and maximizes flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 150°F.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, giving you a juicy, flavorful result that's perfect for your Pesto Chicken dish.
Step 4. Add Pesto Sauce Generously
After letting the chicken rest, it's time to add that vibrant pesto sauce. Be generous with your homemade pesto; you want every piece of chicken thighs to be bursting with flavor.
For best results, marinate the chicken in the pesto mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours in the fridge. If you're using a creamy pesto sauce, mix it with sautéed garlic and tomatoes to create a flavorful base that coats the chicken evenly.
Before adding, always taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to suit your preference. Reserve a bit of pesto to drizzle on top just before serving for that extra burst of freshness.
Enjoy your delicious creation!
Step 5. Simmer Until Cooked Through
Once you've added the pesto and cream to the skillet, bring the mixture to a simmer and make sure the chicken is well-coated in the sauce.
Use a large skillet over medium heat to maintain an even temperature. Stir occasionally to prevent the heavy cream and homemade basil pesto from sticking to the bottom.
You'll want to simmer until the chicken is cooked through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For added moisture, consider covering the skillet to help the chicken retain its juiciness.
Once it's cooked through, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing flavor.
Serve with extra pesto for an extra burst of taste!
Final Thoughts
Though there are countless ways to prepare pesto chicken, its deliciousness and versatility make it a standout dish for any meal.
Whether you grill, bake, or air fry, this super easy recipe guarantees juicy breast meat infused with homemade pesto. You can even customize the flavor by adding spinach or artichokes, or sprinkling grated Parmesan on top.
Plus, pesto chicken is low carb, making it a healthy choice. If you want to switch things up, consider turning your leftovers into creamy garlic chicken for another delightful meal.
You can store any extras in the fridge for up to four days or freeze them for three months. So, go ahead and serve with pesto for a truly satisfying dining experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Put Pesto on Chicken Before or After Cooking?
You should put pesto on chicken before cooking for the best flavor.
By marinating the chicken in pesto for at least 30 minutes, you allow the flavors to penetrate the meat, making it tastier.
If you want an even deeper infusion, you can store it in the fridge for up to a day.
Adding pesto after cooking can also enhance the dish, giving it a fresh burst of flavor when served.
What Goes With Pesto Chicken?
Imagine a painter choosing their colors; each side dish you select adds depth to your culinary canvas.
When you serve pesto chicken, think about buttery sautéed green beans or grilled asparagus to enhance its flavors.
A hearty side of crispy garlic butter parmesan smashed potatoes can create a satisfying contrast.
Don't forget a light, fresh salad to balance it all out.
Cherry tomatoes, whether on the side or mixed in, can bring a vibrant touch.
What Pairs Nicely With Pesto?
When you're thinking about what pairs nicely with pesto, consider vibrant vegetables like sautéed green beans or grilled asparagus. They add freshness and balance.
You might also enjoy crispy garlic butter parmesan smashed potatoes for a hearty touch. A light salad can cut through the richness, while cherry tomatoes offer a burst of color and sweetness.
These combinations not only enhance the flavors but also create a visually appealing and satisfying meal.
How Long Can You Marinate Chicken in Pesto?
You can marinate chicken in pesto for a minimum of 30 minutes to let the flavors soak in, but if you want the best results, aim for 1 to 2 hours.
It's safe to keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours, which really enhances the flavor.
Just be careful not to marinate it longer than that, or the texture might turn mushy from the acidity in the pesto.
