Crispy Pesto Chicken is the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy chicken with rich pesto flavors, a cheesy breadcrumb topping, and just the right amount of crunch. This recipe is inspired by a dish I tried years ago, but it’s been tweaked to make it easier and just as delicious. Perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep, this dish pairs beautifully with roasted veggies, crispy potatoes, or a fresh salad. Let’s get cooking!
Method
Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping
Start by preparing the crispy, cheesy breadcrumb topping. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 20g of panko breadcrumbs, 25g of grated mozzarella, 10g of finely grated Parmesan cheese, and ½ teaspoon of dried parsley. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined. This blend will create a golden, flavorful crust that complements the juicy chicken and rich pesto beautifully. Set this mixture aside while you move on to preparing the chicken.
Prep the Chicken
Next, focus on the chicken breasts. Butterfly each breast by slicing them horizontally, making sure not to cut all the way through. This technique helps the chicken cook more evenly and reduces cooking time, while also ensuring the meat remains juicy and tender. Once both breasts are butterflied, place them flat on an oven-proof baking tray lined with greaseproof paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Add the Pesto
Now it’s time to infuse the chicken with bold, herby flavors. Spread 20g of pesto evenly across the top surface of each butterflied chicken breast. Use the back of a spoon or a brush to ensure the pesto covers the entire surface evenly. Be careful not to overdo it, as using too much pesto can result in a soggy texture. The pesto layer will act as both a flavor booster and an adhesive for the breadcrumb topping.
Add the Topping
Once the pesto is spread, it’s time to add that delicious breadcrumb mixture. Divide the topping evenly between the two chicken breasts, sprinkling it generously over the pesto layer. Press down gently with your fingers or the back of a spoon to help the breadcrumbs stick securely to the pesto. This step is crucial for creating a perfectly crispy, golden crust once baked.
Bake the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) before baking. Place the tray of prepared chicken in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. During this time, the chicken will cook through while the breadcrumb topping turns golden brown and crisp. To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, you can use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F). Keep a close watch during the final few minutes of baking to avoid over-browning or burning the topping.
Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken is fully cooked and the topping is beautifully golden, remove the tray from the oven. Allow the chicken to rest for a minute or two before serving to let the juices redistribute. Serve the crispy pesto chicken immediately alongside your favorite sides—whether it’s roasted baby potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a light salad for a refreshing balance.
Crispy Pesto Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Oven-proof baking tray
- Greaseproof paper
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 2 chicken breasts butterflied
- 40 g pesto I use reduced-fat pesto
- 20 g panko breadcrumbs
- 25 g grated mozzarella
- 10 g Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp parsley
- Necessary Tools
- Oven-proof baking tray
- Greaseproof paper
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated mozzarella, Parmesan, and parsley. Stir until well mixed.
- Step 2: Prep the Chicken.
- Butterfly the chicken breasts for even cooking. Place them on an oven tray lined with greaseproof paper.
- Step 3: Add the Pesto.
- Spread 20g of pesto evenly over each chicken breast.
- Step 4: Add the Topping.
- Divide the breadcrumb mixture between the two chicken breasts, pressing it gently onto the pesto layer to ensure it sticks.
- Step 5: Bake the Chicken.
- Bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the topping is golden and crispy.
- Step 6: Serve and Enjoy.
- Remove from the oven and serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as crispy potatoes or steamed veggies.
Notes
- Butterfly the Chicken Evenly: This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.
- Watch the Topping: Keep an eye on the topping during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning.
- Don’t Overdo the Pesto: Too much pesto can make the topping soggy, so stick to the recommended amount.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with roasted baby potatoes and asparagus for a complete meal.
- Serve over a bed of fresh greens for a lighter option.
- Add a side of garlic bread for an extra indulgence.
Fun Fact
Did you know pesto originates from Genoa, Italy, and the word “pesto” comes from the Italian word “pestare,” which means “to pound”? Traditionally, it’s made by pounding basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil in a mortar and pestle.
Conclusion
This Crispy Pesto Chicken recipe is a quick and easy way to bring bold flavors to your dinner table. With its crunchy, cheesy topping and tender chicken, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether you’re making it for a weekday dinner or prepping meals for the week, it’s a dish you’ll keep coming back to. Try it out, and let me know how you serve yours!