Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe : Looking to add a dish to your repertoire that is not only easy to make but also full of flavour? Without a doubt, this dish for Baked Pesto Chicken will quickly become a fan favourite. In order to create a dish that is not only tasty but also nutritious, tender chicken breasts are coated in a vivid pesto sauce and then cooked to perfection. There is no doubt that this dish will leave a lasting impression, whether you are preparing it for a dinner with your family or for guests.
Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup basil pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: cherry tomatoes for garnish
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to a temperature of 190 degrees Celsius (375 degrees Fahrenheit). The chicken breasts should be placed in a baking dish, and then they should be seasoned with salt and pepper in accordance with the recipe. Following the application of the basil pesto sauce in a layer that is consistent across each chicken breast, check to see that it completely covers the chicken breasts.
Garnish the chicken breasts that have been coated in pesto with some grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkle it on top of the chicken breasts.
In order to enhance the dish’s flavour and colour, cherry tomatoes can be put to the baking dish if that is what the cook desires. Following the preparation of the oven, place the chicken inside the oven and bake it for twenty-five to thirty minutes, or until the chicken is completely cooked through and the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving once it has been removed from the oven once it has reached the proper level of doneness. If you so like, you can top the meal with additional grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil leaves as a garnish.
Also see : Italian Roasted Vegetables Recipe
Tips
After roasting the chicken, broil it for two to three minutes to achieve a topping that is even more crispy. For your convenience, you may either make your own pesto sauce or purchase one from the shop. There is the option of pounding the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness before baking them in order to guarantee that they will cook in the same manner. It is recommended that you serve the Baked Pesto Chicken with your preferred sides, such as roasted vegetables, spaghetti, or a fresh green salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Total Fat: Approximately 20 g
- Cholesterol: Approximately 100 mg
- Sodium: Approximately 600 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 2 g
- Protein: Approximately 40 g
FAQ
Q.1) Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
You can use chicken breasts that have been frozen; however, before baking, you should make sure that they have been completely defrosted so that they cook at the same temperature throughout. The answer to your question is yes; therefore, you can use frozen chicken breasts.
Q.2) Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, without a doubt! To make it dairy-free, you can substitute the grated Parmesan with vegan Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast instead of the traditional cheese. This will allow you to avoid the consumption of dairy products.
Q.3) How long does leftover Baked Pesto Chicken last?
When stored in an airtight container, leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. This is provided that the container is sealed tightly. Ensure that the dish is completely heated before serving by reheating it in the oven or microwave until it reaches the desired temperature.