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
Scale
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.
