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Pesto Chicken

Aromatic and flavorful, Pesto Chicken combines fresh basil pesto with tender chicken breasts for a delightful culinary experience.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 28 minutes
Total Time 43 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pesto Sauce
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves Tightly packed for maximum flavor.
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil Provides richness to the sauce.
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts Adds a nutty crunch.
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped Infuses flavor into the dish.
  • 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided Enhances flavors—adjust to taste.
  • 1 oz. Parmesan, finely grated About 1/2 cup; adds creaminess.
  • 1 tsp. fresh lemon juice Balances richness.
  • 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper Adds subtle spice.
Chicken
  • 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts Tender pieces for the recipe.
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella Melty topping for extra flavor.
  • Cooking spray Cooking spray To grease the baking dish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, olive oil, toasted pine nuts, chopped garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Blend until smooth.
  3. Transfer the basil mixture to a bowl, and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, adjusting salt as needed.
  4. Grease an 11-inch by 8-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  5. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with black pepper and the remaining teaspoon of kosher salt.
  6. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the prepared dish.
  7. Spread the pesto over the chicken, ensuring to cover each piece.
Cooking
  1. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
  2. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.
  3. Return to the oven and bake until chicken is cooked through, approximately 5 to 8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  4. If desired, broil for 1 to 2 minutes for a bubbly, golden cheese topping.
Serving
  1. Let the chicken rest for a few moments before serving.

Notes

Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a salad. This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread and a crisp white wine for a more elevated dining experience.