Description
Whip up this 30-Minute Pesto Chicken , a vibrant and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights! Juicy chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, herby pesto sauce and baked to perfection, then served alongside your favorite sides for a meal that’s ready in no time. Whether you’re using store-bought pesto or your own homemade version, this recipe is a foolproof way to bring bold flavors to the table without spending hours in the kitchen. This step-by-step guide—complete with an easy-to-follow video tutorial—will show you how to create this quick and delicious dish with minimal effort. Watch the video, follow along, and get ready to enjoy a plate of pesto-infused goodness that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ lbs)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Pesto Topping:
- ½ cup prepared basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or Italian blend)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)
Optional Sides:
- Steamed broccoli
- Roasted potatoes
- Pasta or quinoa
- Fresh salad
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the chicken breasts in a single layer.
Season and Sear the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown (this step is optional but adds extra flavor). Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking dish.
Add the Pesto Topping:
- Spread 1-2 tablespoons of pesto evenly over the top of each chicken breast, depending on size.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the pesto layer. If desired, sprinkle with Italian seasoning for added depth of flavor.
Bake:
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes , or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Serve the pesto chicken with your choice of sides like steamed broccoli, roasted potatoes, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 Minutes
- Cook Time: 20 Minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
