There is something truly magical about a dish that combines simplicity and bold flavors in such a satisfying way, and that’s exactly what you get with this Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe. Crisp, juicy chicken breasts get a luscious coating of creamy mayonnaise blended with fresh basil pesto, finished with a crunchy breadcrumb topping that bakes to golden perfection. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between hearty and fresh, making it a fantastic go-to for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners that feel just a little special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is how straightforward the ingredient list is—each component plays a crucial role in flavor, texture, and color, coming together to create that satisfying bite you’ll want again and again.
- Chicken breasts: The foundation of the dish, tender and mild, soaking up all the flavors perfectly.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural taste of the chicken without overpowering it.
- Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and helps the pesto stick for a luscious coating while keeping the chicken moist.
- Basil pesto: Bursting with garlicky, herby goodness that gives this dish its signature fresh flavor.
- Panko breadcrumbs: These light, Japanese-style crumbs create a crispy, golden crust that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy pesto topping.
How to Make Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Kick off this recipe by heating your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and spray it lightly with nonstick spray so the chicken doesn’t stick or lose its crispy crust.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel—this step ensures the coating sticks better and the chicken browns nicely. Season both sides with salt and pepper to bring out that natural meaty flavor you love.
Step 3: Create the Pesto Spread
Mix the mayonnaise and basil pesto in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. This mixture is the secret to that rich, savory topping that sets this recipe apart. Spoon the pesto-mayo blend generously over each chicken breast, coating the tops evenly. Set aside a little of this mixture for serving—it makes a delicious extra drizzle later on.
Step 4: Add Crunch with Panko
Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the pesto-coated chicken. These crumbs will toast in the oven to a beautiful golden brown, delivering the perfect textural contrast in every bite.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfect
Place your tray in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re aiming for the chicken’s internal temperature to hit 165°F, which means it’s safe, juicy, and cooked just right. The juices should run clear once you cut into it—no pink here!
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Once baked to perfection, remove the chicken from the oven and serve it straight away. That crispy topping is best enjoyed warm and fresh out of the oven.
How to Serve Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a few torn basil leaves elevates the dish with extra flavor and a burst of green color. A lemon wedge on the side adds a fresh zinginess that brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, buttery garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. For a lighter option, steam some green beans or asparagus to keep things fresh and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe into a beautiful platter by arranging the chicken over a bed of fluffy couscous or quinoa, drizzled with the reserved pesto-mayo sauce. Add some cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for pops of color and extra flavor complexity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The pesto flavor stays vibrant, and you’ll still enjoy a tasty meal the next day without sacrificing quality.
Freezing
If you want to save this dish for longer, freeze cooked chicken breasts in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Be sure to label them so you remember this delicious Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is waiting for you when you need a quick meal.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness to the breadcrumb topping without drying out the chicken. A quick microwave reheating works too, but you might lose that perfect crunch.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a juicier option and will work wonderfully with the pesto and breadcrumb topping, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in this recipe?
You can try Greek yogurt or a light sour cream for a tangier, slightly less rich version. Mayonnaise, however, helps keep the chicken moist and also binds the pesto nicely, so it’s the easiest choice.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Make sure your pesto is dairy-free or homemade without cheese. Use a dairy-free mayonnaise alternative, and the dish will still be flavorful and delicious.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Using a meat thermometer is best—look for an internal temperature of 165°F. If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part to check clear juices and no pinkness.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken with the pesto and breadcrumbs the day before and keep it covered in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake for fresh, hot chicken anytime.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is one of those fantastic dishes that bring together fresh ingredients and simple steps to create something truly special. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy nights but impressive enough to share with guests. Once you try it, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a beloved go-to in many kitchens. Give it a whirl—you’ll be so glad you did!
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
Description
This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts coated with a flavorful mixture of basil pesto and mayonnaise, topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs, then baked to perfection. It’s a quick and simple dinner option that delivers a delicious, savory meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 chicken breast halves (about 1.25 pounds)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce & Topping
- ⅓ cup Hellman’s or Best Foods Mayonnaise
- â…“ cup basil pesto
- 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs (panko is best)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and coat it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry thoroughly with a paper towel, then season both sides evenly with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Mix Pesto Mayonnaise and Coat Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and basil pesto until smooth. Place the chicken breasts on the baking sheet and spoon the pesto mixture evenly over each chicken breast, reserving some for serving later.
- Add Breadcrumb Topping: Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly over the coated chicken breasts, which will create a crispy golden crust after baking.
- Bake Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the juices run clear, ensuring it is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Serve: Remove the baked pesto chicken from the oven and serve immediately with any reserved pesto mixture on the side to add extra flavor.
Notes
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier topping.
- Make sure chicken is cooked through by checking the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- You can swap basil pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor.
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
