If you’re craving a dish that feels both luxurious and incredibly simple, this Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is just what you need. It combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a velvety layer of rich basil pesto and creamy mayonnaise, all topped with perfectly crispy breadcrumbs. The flavors meld into something mouthwateringly delicious yet totally fuss-free, making this dish a weeknight hero or a special weekend treat. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, and trust me when I say it’s one recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in taste and texture, ensuring your Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe turns out irresistibly flavorful and beautifully golden on top.
- 4 chicken breast halves (about 1.25 pounds): Choose thick but even-sized breasts for consistent cooking and juicy results.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that elevate the natural flavors of the chicken.
- ⅓ cup Hellman’s or Best Foods Mayonnaise: Adds a creamy, rich base that keeps the chicken moist.
- â…“ cup basil pesto: This fragrant, herbaceous star ingredient infuses the dish with bright, fresh flavor.
- 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs (panko is best): Creates a satisfyingly crunchy, golden crust that contrasts the tender chicken.
How to Make Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by heating your oven to 425°F. This higher temperature is key because it helps the breadcrumbs crisp up beautifully while cooking the chicken quickly and evenly. Line a baking sheet with foil to make cleanup easy, and coat it with nonstick spray so your chicken won’t stick or lose its crispy topping.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels—this step helps the seasoning adhere better and prevents steaming in the oven. Then simply season each piece liberally with salt and pepper. This straightforward seasoning foundation lets the pesto and mayo mixture truly shine.
Step 3: Spread the Pesto Mixture
In a small bowl, blend together mayonnaise and basil pesto until smooth and creamy. This combo is what makes the Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe sing with flavor while locking in moisture. Spoon the pesto mixture generously over each chicken breast, saving a little to serve on the side or drizzle over the finished dish for an extra burst of flavor.
Step 4: Add the Crunch with Breadcrumbs
Evenly sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the pesto-coated chicken breasts. Panko’s light, airy texture is perfect for creating that sought-after crunchy topping without weighing the dish down. The contrast between the crispy crust and tender chicken makes every bite so satisfying.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfect
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the juices run clear. The timing is just right to cook the chicken through while giving the breadcrumbs plenty of time to turn golden and crisp.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove your Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe from the oven and serve immediately to enjoy that fantastic crunch and warm, herby aroma at its peak. This meal is both simple and elegant, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time.
How to Serve Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To really elevate your dish, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a few fresh basil leaves on top just before serving. These simple touches introduce a wonderful pop of flavor and color, making your plate look as amazing as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. Think a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted seasonal veggies, or even a fluffy bed of garlic mashed potatoes. These sides balance the richness of the pesto and bring variety to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the chicken breasts and serving them over warm pasta tossed with olive oil and cherry tomatoes for a comforting twist. Or, layer slices on top of a grain bowl with quinoa, roasted veggies, and a drizzle of extra pesto for a colorful, wholesome meal. Presentation can be fun and flexible!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they will last for up to 3 days, retaining both flavor and moisture pretty well.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken breasts wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. For the best texture, freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Warm your pesto chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps keep the breadcrumb crust crispier compared to microwaving, which can make it soggy. Alternatively, a quick pan sear can refresh the texture nicely.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can, but make sure to fully thaw them before cooking so they cook evenly and stay juicy. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture, then proceed with the seasoning and baking steps.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Just check your pesto brand for dairy ingredients—some contain Parmesan. You can either make your own dairy-free pesto or find a suitable store-bought version. The mayonnaise used is typically dairy-free already.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt?
You can swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to reduce fat and add tanginess. Keep in mind it might not be as rich, and the baking breadcrumbs may brown differently, but it still tastes delicious and adds a fresh twist.
What’s the best way to ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Drying the chicken first and coating it with the pesto-mayo mixture helps retain moisture. Also, avoid overbaking by checking the internal temperature—165°F is your safety target and ensures juicy results without dryness.
Can I add other seasonings or herbs?
Definitely! Fresh thyme, oregano, or a pinch of crushed red pepper can add complexity. Just make sure not to overpower the basil pesto, which is the star flavor of this recipe.
Final Thoughts
Making the Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe is a little moment of magic in your kitchen, layering vibrant basil flavor with crispy, comforting textures. It’s approachable for any skill level but feels special enough to serve when you want to impress with minimal effort. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how such a simple recipe delivers such a big wow.
Print
Easy Baked Pesto Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Easy Baked Pesto Chicken recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to prepare juicy chicken breasts topped with a creamy basil pesto mayonnaise and a crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines fresh pesto, mayonnaise, and panko breadcrumbs to create a deliciously golden and tender meal that pairs wonderfully with your favorite sides.
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 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 Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry thoroughly with a paper towel to help the topping adhere better. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix Topping: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and basil pesto until well blended. This mixture adds moisture and rich flavor to the chicken.
- Apply Topping: Lay the chicken breasts evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon the pesto mayonnaise mixture generously over each breast, reserving a little for serving if desired.
- Add Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the coated chicken breasts to create a crunchy crust once baked.
- Bake Chicken: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F and the juices run clear, ensuring it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and serve immediately, optionally drizzling with the reserved pesto mixture for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked.
- For a crispier topping, you can broil the chicken for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs if you require a gluten-free version.
- Consider serving with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or pasta to complete the meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
