© Original recipe by The Spoon Studio ©
Easy One-Pan Pesto Chicken and Veggies for a Quick Weeknight Dinner 🍽️🌿🔥
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for pesto chicken recipe ideas that are simple, healthy, and perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan pesto chicken and veggies dish is your new go-to. Combining tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant basil pesto, this easy dinner idea requires minimal prep and cleanup. Whether you’re a beginner cook or seasoned pro, this weeknight chicken recipe guarantees a delicious, stress-free meal that fits perfectly into your hectic schedule.
2. Ingredients for Pesto Chicken Recipe
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Feel free to customize this one-pan healthy dinner by adding other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or olives. For more quick and easy dessert ideas, check out our easy dessert recipes.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Pesto Chicken Dinner
Preparation of the Chicken
Searing the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cooking the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Toss in the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and yellow bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combining the Ingredients
Lower the heat to medium, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and spread the basil pesto evenly over the chicken breasts. Spoon the sautéed vegetables around the chicken, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through and flavors meld together.
Serving the Pesto Chicken and Veggies
Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot, accompanied by a side of crusty bread or over a bed of cooked grains like rice or quinoa. This one-pan healthy dinner is perfect for an effortless yet flavorful meal.
4. Tips for Perfecting Your Pesto Chicken Recipe
- Use thin chicken breasts for quicker cooking or pound thicker breasts to an even thickness for uniform doneness.
- Opt for homemade pesto if you want to control the ingredients and flavors.
- Feel free to add cheese, such as Parmesan or mozzarella, during the last few minutes of cooking for extra richness.
Looking for more kitchen gadgets to make this recipe even easier? Check out the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer for quick roasting or air frying vegetables, or the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer for versatile cooking options.
5. Storage Tips for Leftover Pesto Chicken
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed thoroughly. To keep the vegetables fresh, consider making this dish in smaller batches if you plan on storing leftovers.
For a sweet ending, explore our fall-inspired drinks or easy dessert recipes.
6. Serving Suggestions for Your Pesto Chicken Dinner
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or toasted baguette slices for a satisfying meal.
- Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for added freshness.
- Optionally, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan or feta cheese for extra flavor.
7. Frequently Asked Questions about the Pesto Chicken Recipe
Can I use store-bought pesto in this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works perfectly and saves time. For a fresher taste, you can also make your own basil pesto at home.
What are good substitutions for chicken?
If you prefer a different protein, try using shrimp, salmon, or firm tofu for a weeknight chicken alternative.
How long does this easy dinner take to prepare and cook?
The entire process takes around 30 minutes, making it an ideal quick weeknight dinner option for busy evenings.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it stores well and reheats nicely. Portion leftovers into containers to enjoy throughout the week.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
Enhance your cooking experience with some essential tools. For instance, the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer makes roasting vegetables quick and mess-free, while the T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set ensures your pans are durable and easy to clean. These tools can help streamline this easy dinner ideas and elevate your cooking results.
9. Conclusion
This pesto chicken recipe offers a vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly easy way to transform humble ingredients into a star weeknight meal. With its healthy, one-pan preparation, it’s perfect for busy lifestyles without sacrificing taste or quality. Try this delicious weeknight chicken dish today and enjoy a fuss-free dinner that everyone will love. For more versatile kitchen essentials and recipe inspiration, explore the links provided and make your cooking experience truly enjoyable!
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Easy One-Pan Pesto Chicken and Veggies for a Quick Weeknight Dinner
A simple and flavorful one-pan pesto chicken and vegetables perfect for busy weeknights.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear in the skillet until golden on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Spread pesto sauce over the chicken.
- Add cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and red bell pepper around the chicken.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
Notes
- You can substitute or add other vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms.
- Adjust pesto amount to preferred flavor intensity.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Bake, Sear
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with veggies
- Calories: 350 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg