Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further! This pesto chicken baked recipe is your answer. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal cleanup, and is perfect for a busy weeknight. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this simple yet satisfying dish!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade – see variations below!)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish (9x13 inch works perfectly).
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Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the pesto, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat evenly, ensuring they're fully marinated.
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Assemble & Bake: Arrange the marinated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the chicken and tomatoes for extra flavor and visual appeal.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken.
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Serve & Enjoy: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. Serve immediately and enjoy! This simple recipe pairs perfectly with a side of quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Pesto Chicken Perfection:
- Don't overbake: Overcooked chicken will be dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked to the safe internal temperature.
- Homemade pesto is best: While store-bought pesto works fine, making your own allows you to control the ingredients and flavor. (See variations below for a simple homemade pesto recipe).
- Add some veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus to the baking dish.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto mixture for a little heat.
Variations:
Homemade Pesto: Combine 2 cups fresh basil leaves, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts), 2 cloves garlic, and 1/2 cup olive oil in a food processor. Pulse until smooth.
Lemon Pesto Twist: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to your pesto mixture for a bright and zesty flavor.
Sun-dried Tomato Pesto: Substitute sun-dried tomatoes for fresh basil for a richer, more intense flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a 4-serving recipe and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This easy pesto chicken baked recipe is a delicious and healthy addition to your weekly meal plan. It's a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can be both quick and satisfying, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Enjoy experimenting with the variations and making this your new go-to weeknight dinner!