This One-Pan Pesto Chicken Breast is a flavorful and easy dinner recipe that comes together quickly with minimal cleanup. Juicy chicken breasts are seared and then simmered in a fragrant basil pesto sauce alongside cherry tomatoes and mozzarella. Perfect for a weeknight meal that feels special with little effort!
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup prepared basil pesto
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or fresh mozzarella slices
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken breasts and sear for 5–6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and nearly cooked through.
- Add cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Reduce heat to low. Spread pesto over the chicken and top with mozzarella.
- Cover the skillet and let cook for another 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Serve hot with pasta, rice, or a green salad.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sugars: 3g
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 540mg
- Potassium: 620mg
- Vitamin A: 900 IU
- Vitamin C: 12mg
- Calcium: 180mg
- Iron: 1.2mg
Health Benefits of Pesto Chicken
One-Pan Pesto Chicken Breast combines lean protein from the chicken with nutrient-rich basil pesto, making it a wholesome choice for a balanced meal. Chicken breasts are low in fat and high in protein, essential for muscle repair and satiety. Basil pesto, typically made with fresh basil, olive oil, nuts, and Parmesan cheese, provides healthy fats and antioxidants that support heart health and inflammation reduction. The combination delivers a flavorful dish without sacrificing nutritional value.
Why Choose One-Pan Recipes
One-pan recipes are a favorite for busy cooks because they minimize cleanup and reduce cooking time. By cooking the chicken and vegetables in a single skillet, you preserve flavor and moisture while simplifying the cooking process. This efficiency makes it easier to prepare healthy meals on hectic days without compromising taste or texture.
The Role of Basil Pesto in Flavor
Basil pesto is the star ingredient that elevates this dish. Its aromatic, fresh basil combined with the richness of olive oil, nuttiness of pine nuts or walnuts, and sharpness of Parmesan cheese creates a bold flavor profile. Pesto adds depth to the chicken, complementing its mild taste with herbal and savory notes, making every bite vibrant and satisfying.
Versatility of One-Pan Pesto Chicken
This dish is incredibly versatile, fitting well into various dietary preferences and meal occasions. It pairs wonderfully with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad, allowing you to customize your meal to your liking. It can also be served warm or at room temperature, making it suitable for meal prep or casual dining.
Time-Saving Meal Option
With busy lifestyles, finding time to cook a nutritious meal can be challenging. One-Pan Pesto Chicken Breast is quick to prepare, often ready within 30 minutes or less. The simplicity of searing chicken and finishing it with pesto and cheese in the same pan makes it accessible for novice cooks and a great option for weeknight dinners.
Balancing Macros in One Dish
This recipe strikes a good balance between protein, fats, and carbohydrates. The chicken breast supplies lean protein, while pesto contributes heart-healthy fats from olive oil and nuts. The small amount of carbohydrates mainly comes from the cherry tomatoes, adding a touch of natural sweetness and fiber. This balance supports sustained energy and satiety.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken Breast
Cooking chicken breast perfectly can be tricky as it easily becomes dry if overcooked. Using this one-pan method, searing the chicken first locks in moisture, while finishing it in a covered pan with pesto and cheese helps keep it juicy and tender. Monitoring the internal temperature ensures safety and optimum texture.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
If you want to tweak the recipe, there are several substitutions you can try. For example, swapping mozzarella for goat cheese or feta adds a tangy twist. Using sun-dried tomato pesto instead of basil pesto gives a richer, deeper flavor. You can also add vegetables like spinach or zucchini to increase the nutrient content.
Nutritional Highlights
This recipe is packed with essential nutrients such as protein, vitamin A from basil, and calcium from cheese. The olive oil in pesto contributes monounsaturated fats, which support cardiovascular health. The dish is also low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it suitable for low-carb and keto-friendly diets.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
To make a complete meal, serve the One-Pan Pesto Chicken Breast with complementary sides. Light pasta tossed with olive oil and garlic, steamed green beans, or a fresh mixed salad are excellent choices. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles pair beautifully with the rich pesto flavors.
Storage and Leftover Tips
This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great candidate for meal prepping. To maintain the best texture, store the chicken and pesto sauce separately if possible and reheat gently. The flavors often deepen after a day, making leftovers equally delicious.
Cultural Roots of Pesto
Pesto originates from Liguria, a coastal region in northern Italy. Traditionally made with basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, pesto has become a beloved sauce worldwide. Incorporating pesto in chicken dishes like this one-pan recipe showcases how Italian flavors can be adapted into simple, modern meals.
Conclusion
The One-Pan Pesto Chicken Breast recipe offers a perfect combination of convenience, flavor, and nutrition. Its quick preparation and minimal cleanup make it ideal for busy individuals seeking a healthy dinner option. The robust flavor of basil pesto enriches lean chicken breast, creating a satisfying meal that can be easily customized and paired with various sides. This dish not only pleases the palate but also supports a balanced diet, making it a staple worth adding to your recipe collection.