© Original recipe by Serena Miller ©
Easy One-Pan Pesto Chicken Dinner 🍗🌿✨
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a flavorful, simple, and health-conscious meal, this easy one-pan pesto chicken dinner is perfect for you. Combining tender chicken with aromatic basil pesto and fresh vegetables, this dish offers a complete and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. It’s one of the best pesto chicken recipes that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for weeknights or busy weekends.
2. Ingredients for Your Pesto Chicken Recipes
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish
3. How to Make an Easy One-Pan Pesto Chicken Dinner
Preparing the chicken
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sautéing the vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced red onion, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and develop a slight char, enhancing their flavor. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper while sautéing.
Combining everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Spread the basil pesto evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Final touches and serving
Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot, straight from the skillet, for a cozy, flavorful, and delicious one-pan chicken idea. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
4. Storage Tips for Your Pesto Chicken Dinner
Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or gently warm in a skillet to preserve the flavors and texture.
5. Serving Suggestions for Your One-Pan Chicken Ideas
This versatile dish can be served over cooked pasta, rice, or grains to make it even more filling. Add a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness or sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for a richer taste. It’s also perfect for meal prep, providing flavorful lunches or dinners throughout the week.
6. Tips to Make Your Pesto Chicken Recipes Even Better
- Use homemade pesto for a fresher, more customizable flavor.
- Swap out chicken with turkey or shrimp for variation.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Use a cast-iron skillet for an even better sear and crispy edges.
7. Frequently Asked Questions about Pesto Chicken Recipes
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh or thawed chicken breasts for even cooking, but if you use frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking to prevent uneven doneness.
What can I substitute for basil pesto?
If you’re looking for dairy-free or nut-free options, try sun-dried tomato pesto or avocado-based spreads. These alternatives add a different flavor profile but work just as well with the recipe.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The entire process, from prep to plating, takes approximately 30 minutes, making it an ideal easy chicken dinner for busy weeknights.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect for quickly cooking or reheating leftovers with even heat distribution.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures your skillet is durable and easy to clean for the perfect sear and sauté.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: For grilling or crisping your proteins with minimal fuss.
Investing in quality kitchen tools can elevate your cooking experience and make prepping this easy pesto chicken dinner even more enjoyable.
9. Conclusion
This easy chicken dinner combines the delightful flavor of basil pesto with wholesome vegetables and tender chicken, all prepared in a single skillet. It’s quick, nutritious, and perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or simply love minimal cleanup, this pesto chicken recipe will become a go-to in your meal rotation. Enjoy the simplicity and bold flavors that make this dish a standout among one-pan chicken ideas.
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Easy One-Pan Pesto Chicken Dinner
A flavorful, easy-to-make one-pan pesto chicken with roasted vegetables, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet and brush with pesto.
- Arrange vegetables around chicken, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Notes
- You can substitute other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
- Use fresh basil pesto for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with vegetables
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
