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pesto chicken

Pesto chicken is a flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated with vibrant basil pesto, perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
  3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  5. Remove the skillet from heat and spread 2 tablespoons of pesto evenly over each chicken breast.
  6. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the pesto-coated chicken.
  7. Add cherry tomatoes around the chicken for roasting, if using.
  8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, serve with a side of garlic roasted vegetables or over a bed of cooked pasta tossed in olive oil.