If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet incredibly simple to put together, this Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a luscious mix of creamy mayonnaise and vibrant basil pesto, topped with a crisp breadcrumb crust that bakes up golden and irresistible. It’s a perfect weeknight go-to that feels elegant but doesn’t demand hours or complicated ingredients. Whether you’re a pesto lover or new to this herbaceous sauce, this recipe will quickly become a staple you turn to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is simple but essential, working together to create a dish that’s savory, fresh, and delightfully textured. From the succulent chicken breasts to the crispy breadcrumbs, every element plays a role in delivering that perfect bite.
- Chicken breasts (4 halves, about 1.25 pounds): Choose fresh, plump breasts for the best juicy results.
- Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.
- Hellman’s or Best Foods Mayonnaise (⅓ cup): Adds creamy richness and helps the pesto stick perfectly to the chicken.
- Basil pesto (â…“ cup): The star flavor bringing an herby, garlicky brightness with a hint of nuttiness.
- Panko breadcrumbs (3 tablespoons): For that extra crunch and golden topping that makes the dish feel special.
How to Make Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. This higher temperature ensures that the chicken cooks through quickly, sealing in moisture while crisping the breadcrumb topping beautifully. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly coat it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Pat each chicken breast dry using a paper towel. This helps the seasoning and pesto mixture adhere better. Season both sides evenly with salt and pepper for a flavor base that’s simple but crucial.
Step 3: Assemble the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and basil pesto—this creamy and vibrant blend will coat the chicken with indulgent flavor. Spoon this mixture generously over each breast, spreading it evenly. Reserve a little pesto mix to add when serving for an extra touch of freshness.
Step 4: Add the Breadcrumbs
Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly over the pesto-coated chicken. These crumbs toast up nicely in the oven, creating a crunchy topping that contrasts perfectly with the tender chicken underneath.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. To ensure it’s done, check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F and that the juices run clear when pierced. The perfectly baked chicken will be juicy and tender with a beautifully golden crust.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a moment. Serve it immediately, perhaps with a dollop of the reserved pesto mayo mixture on top for an extra pop of flavor and moisture.
How to Serve Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil, or even a few halved cherry tomatoes bring a burst of color and extra layers of flavor. A wedge of lemon on the side can add a bright zing that complements the pesto beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes or a light lemony quinoa salad balance the richness, while roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad provide freshness and crunch. For a Mediterranean feel, serve alongside garlic bread or couscous.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, slice the chicken breasts diagonally and fan them out on a plate, drizzling the remaining pesto sauce over the top. You can also serve the chicken on a bed of sautéed spinach or alongside a smear of ricotta cheese lightly seasoned with salt and pepper for a restaurant-worthy look at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay good for up to 3 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners during the week.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, too. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cooked chicken will maintain quality for about 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warm throughout. This helps preserve the crispy breadcrumb topping better than a microwave. If pressed for time, microwaving is fine but expect the topping to soften.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works great and saves time. Just choose a good-quality brand for the best flavor. Making your own pesto is a bonus but not necessary.
What type of chicken breast is best?
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking and ease. If they’re particularly thick, consider pounding them slightly to ensure they cook evenly.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise in this recipe?
Yes, Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used as alternatives if you prefer a lighter or tangier base. The texture will be a bit different, but the pesto flavor will still shine.
Is panko necessary or can I use regular breadcrumbs?
Panko breadcrumbs are preferred because they create a lighter, crispier topping. Regular breadcrumbs can be used but expect a denser crust.
How long can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can assemble the chicken with the pesto mixture and breadcrumbs a few hours before baking, but avoid prepping too far ahead to keep the breadcrumbs from getting soggy.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is truly a gem for busy cooks who crave something vibrant, flavorful, and fuss-free. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you get a dish that feels special enough for guests yet simple enough for any night of the week. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself making this green-herb beauty again and again!
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-American
Description
This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts coated in a flavorful mixture of basil pesto, mayonnaise, and crispy panko breadcrumbs, baked to juicy perfection in just 30 minutes. A simple yet delicious meal perfect for any weeknight.
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 with nonstick spray to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry thoroughly with a paper towel to ensure crispiness. Season both sides with salt and pepper evenly.
- Assemble the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and basil pesto until well blended. Spoon this pesto mixture generously over each chicken breast, reserving some for serving later if desired.
- Add the Breadcrumbs: Evenly sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the pesto-coated chicken breasts to add a crunchy texture after baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F and the juices run clear, indicating the chicken is fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and serve immediately while hot, optionally using the reserved pesto mixture as an extra sauce.
Notes
- Using panko breadcrumbs provides a lighter, crispier topping compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Mayonnaise helps keep the chicken moist and adds richness to the pesto flavor.
- Leftover pesto mixture can be saved as a dipping sauce or spread.
- You can use store-bought pesto or homemade for customization of flavor.
