Description
This Italian Chicken with Basil Pesto & Grape Tomatoes is a flavorful and easy weeknight meal featuring tender chicken breasts topped with vibrant basil pesto, juicy grape tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Baked to perfection, it’s a delightful combination of fresh Mediterranean flavors that comes together in less than 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking and Flavor
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the chicken after searing.
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Sear Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the chicken breasts for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they develop a light golden crust, which helps seal in juices.
- Add Toppings: Remove the skillet from heat. Spoon a generous amount of basil pesto over each chicken breast. Scatter the halved grape tomatoes around the chicken, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes if using, adding layers of flavor and a bit of heat.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and juicy.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- This dish pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Try using sun-dried tomato pesto instead of basil pesto for a delicious flavor variation.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier alternative.
- Make sure to use an oven-safe skillet to easily transfer from stovetop to oven.
