Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy dinner? Look no further! This Pesto Chicken Trader Joe's recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. Using readily available ingredients from Trader Joe's, this recipe delivers big on flavor without sacrificing simplicity. It's the perfect example of homemade cooking done right, resulting in a fantastic meal that's both quick and satisfying. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (6 oz) jar Trader Joe's Pesto (or your favorite pesto)
- 1 (10 oz) package Trader Joe's Organic Baby Spinach
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
Create the Pesto Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
Coat the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and generously coat each one with the pesto mixture, ensuring they're fully covered.
Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Add Spinach (Optional): During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the baby spinach to the baking dish around the chicken. The heat from the chicken will wilt the spinach beautifully.
Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra texture and flavor.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have more than two chicken breasts, consider using two baking dishes to ensure even cooking.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to prevent foodborne illness.
- Adjust pesto to taste: If you prefer a less intense pesto flavor, reduce the amount used.
- Add some heat: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto mixture.
Variations:
- Lemon Pesto Chicken: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon to the pesto mixture for a bright and zesty twist.
- Vegetable Pesto Chicken: Add other vegetables like sliced bell peppers or zucchini to the baking dish alongside the spinach.
- Pasta Pesto Chicken: Serve this dish over your favorite pasta for a complete and hearty meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used. This recipe is intended as a healthy meal option.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This easy pesto chicken recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a simple yet delicious meal any day of the week. It's a delicious dish that's easy to customize to your liking, making it a versatile addition to your healthy meals repertoire. Enjoy!