Description
This Italian Chicken with Basil Pesto & Grape Tomatoes is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated in aromatic basil pesto, complemented by juicy sautéed grape tomatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, it combines simple ingredients with classic Italian flavors for a delicious and satisfying experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce and Toppings
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for baking the chicken later.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly on both sides with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook each side for 3-4 minutes until they develop a golden-brown crust but are not completely cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the halved grape tomatoes. Cook them for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices.
- Add Pesto and Coat Chicken: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Spread the basil pesto generously over the top of each breast, ensuring they are well coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Bake: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Garnish: After baking, remove the skillet from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve: Transfer the chicken and tomatoes to a serving platter. Spoon some of the pan juices over the dish for extra flavor and enjoy your Italian-inspired meal.
Notes
- You can use homemade basil pesto for a fresher taste or store-bought for convenience.
- Make sure to use an oven-safe skillet to seamlessly transition from stovetop to oven.
- Resting the chicken after baking helps retain juices and improves tenderness.
- Serve with a side of pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
