© Original Recipe By The Cozy Crumb ©
Easy Pesto Chicken and Veggies One-Pan Dinner 🍗🌿🥦
1. Introduction
Discover how to create a delicious and healthy pesto chicken recipe with this easy one-pan chicken dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights, this veggie pesto meal combines succulent chicken with vibrant vegetables, all coated in a flavorful basil pesto. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also minimizes cleanup, making it an ideal choice for a wholesome family dinner or a fun dinner party.
2. Ingredients for Your Pesto Chicken Recipe
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)
To enhance your cooking experience, consider using tools like the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer or the T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set. These will make preparation and cleanup even more effortless.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Best Pesto Chicken Dinner
Preparing the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cooking the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized. Season with a bit of salt and pepper to taste.
Combining and Tossing with Pesto
Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet. Add the basil pesto and stir everything together until evenly coated. Allow the flavors to meld for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the pesto heats through and infuses the chicken and veggies with flavor.
Serving Your Veggie Pesto Meal
Transfer the pesto chicken and veggies to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite side — such as roasted potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
4. Storage Tips for Your Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts or warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through. This pesto chicken recipe reheats well, maintaining its flavor and texture.
5. Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Meal
Pair your veggie pesto meal with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread to make it a complete dinner. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a bowl of grain like quinoa or couscous. To add a refreshing touch, serve with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
6. FAQs About This Delicious Pesto Chicken Dinner
Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using store-bought pesto is a quick and convenient option. For a richer flavor, consider making your own fresh basil pesto at home.
Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Yes, this dish works well with shrimp, turkey, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly for different proteins.
How long does it take to prepare this meal?
Overall, it takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for weeknights.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Prepare in advance and reheat for a quick lunch or dinner. Just store it in an airtight container and add fresh herbs before serving for extra flavor.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
Using the right kitchen tools can make preparing this pesto chicken recipe even easier. Consider adding these essential items to your kitchen:
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect for quickly cooking and crisping ingredients without extra oil, making your one-pan chicken dinner healthier and more convenient.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures easy cooking and cleanup, great for sautéing vegetables and cooking chicken evenly.
8. Final Tips for the Perfect Pesto Chicken and Veggies
For the best flavor, use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or feta cheese over the top before serving.
9. Conclusion
This pesto chicken recipe combines simplicity, flavor, and health in a beautiful veggie pesto meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this one-pan chicken dinner delivers satisfying taste with minimal fuss. Enjoy this delicious dish that’s easy to prepare, packed with nutritious vegetables, and bursting with aromatic basil pesto. Happy cooking!
Print
Easy Pesto Chicken and Veggies One-Pan Dinner
Succulent chicken breasts coated in fresh basil pesto, roasted alongside a medley of colorful vegetables for a flavorful, hassle-free dinner.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 2 carrots, 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 spread pesto over them.
- Arrange vegetables around chicken, drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through and veggies are tender.
Notes
- Use fresh basil pesto for best flavor.
- Adjust cooking time based on thickness of chicken breasts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten-free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
