If you’re craving something simple yet bursting with flavor, this Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is a total game changer. With tender chicken breasts slathered in a luscious blend of basil pesto and creamy mayonnaise, topped with crunchy breadcrumbs, it brings a perfect harmony of textures and vibrant tastes to your dinner table. You’ll love how quickly it comes together without compromising on that impressive, restaurant-quality feel.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward, pantry-friendly, and each one plays a crucial role in building the delicious layers of this Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe. From the richness of mayonnaise to the fresh punch of basil pesto, every component is essential.
- 4 chicken breast halves (about 1.25 pounds): Choose even-sized breasts for uniform cooking and perfect tenderness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning that enhances the natural flavor of the chicken.
- ⅓ cup Hellman’s or Best Foods Mayonnaise: Provides a creamy base that keeps the chicken juicy and helps the pesto stick.
- â…“ cup basil pesto: The heart of the dish, delivering that fragrant, herby punch you can’t resist.
- 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs (panko is best): Adds a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pesto.
How to Make Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with foil. Spritz the foil with nonstick spray to make cleanup a breeze and ensure your chicken won’t stick as it bakes to perfection.
Step 2: Season and Dry the Chicken
Pat each chicken breast dry with a paper towel. This step is key for getting a good crust and preventing sogginess. Then, season both sides generously with salt and pepper to build a flavorful foundation.
Step 3: Coat with the Creamy Pesto Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and basil pesto until smooth. This magic mixture is what makes the Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe stand out—it keeps the chicken super moist while adding a vibrant, herbal richness. Spoon this mixture evenly over each chicken breast, saving a bit aside for serving later if you like.
Step 4: Add the Crunch with Breadcrumbs
Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the pesto-coated chicken. These breadcrumbs toast up in the oven and deliver a satisfying crunch that contrasts delightfully with the creamy topping and tender meat.
Step 5: Bake Until Juicy and Perfect
Place the baking sheet in your hot oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The chicken is done when its internal temperature hits 165°F and the juices run clear. The timing ensures juicy chicken with a beautifully crisp, golden top.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Once out of the oven, serve the chicken right away to enjoy the contrast between warm, tender meat and crunchy topping. Remember that leftover pesto mixture can be drizzled on top for extra flavor.
How to Serve Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese work wonders as garnishes. They add a pop of color and complementary flavor that elevates the dish visually and taste-wise.
Side Dishes
This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic roasted potatoes, or a simple side of steamed asparagus. You want sides that balance the richness of the chicken while keeping the meal light and bright.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pesto chicken sliced atop a bed of buttery polenta or alongside cooked quinoa tossed with cherry tomatoes for an elegant presentation. For a casual twist, layer it on ciabatta bread with fresh mozzarella for a satisfying sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This helps preserve its moisture and flavor while keeping it safe to reheat.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked pesto chicken by wrapping it tightly in foil and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It stays delicious for up to 2 months, making it a great meal prep option.
Reheating
To enjoy the best texture, reheat the chicken gently in a 350°F oven until warmed through. This keeps the topping crisp and the chicken juicy, unlike microwaving which can make it rubbery or soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pesto in this recipe?
Absolutely! While basil pesto is classic here, you can experiment with sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto for unique flavor twists. Just ensure the pesto isn’t too watery to maintain the topping’s texture.
Is it necessary to use mayonnaise with the pesto?
The mayonnaise adds creaminess and helps the pesto stick better to the chicken, which also keeps it juicy. If you prefer, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt, but the flavor and texture might be slightly different.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Chicken thighs can work well and are naturally more moist. Just keep in mind they might require a few extra minutes to cook through and could alter the final texture of the topping.
What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
Regular breadcrumbs will do in a pinch, but panko gives that superior crispiness and light texture which is ideal for this Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe’s topping.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives or crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts to keep that crunch without gluten.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is one of those meals you’ll find yourself making again and again because it strikes that perfect balance of effortless preparation and impressive flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a small gathering, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels special without the fuss. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts topped with a flavorful mixture of basil pesto and creamy mayonnaise, finished with a crispy panko breadcrumb crust. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner, this baked dish is simple to prepare and bursting with vibrant Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 chicken breast halves (about 1.25 pounds)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping
- ⅓ cup Hellman’s or Best Foods Mayonnaise
- â…“ cup basil pesto
- 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs (panko is best)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and coat it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry using a paper towel to remove excess moisture, then season both sides with salt and pepper to taste to enhance flavor.
- Apply pesto mixture: Lay the chicken breasts evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and basil pesto until well mixed, then spoon this mixture generously over each chicken breast, reserving a little for serving later if desired.
- Add breadcrumbs: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the pesto-coated chicken breasts to create a crispy, golden topping when baked.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the juices run clear, ensuring it is fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and serve immediately with the reserved pesto mixture for added flavor.
Notes
- Using panko breadcrumbs provides a lighter, crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally for safe consumption.
- You can prepare the pesto-mayo mixture in advance to save time.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- This recipe can be doubled easily to serve larger groups.
