One Pan Pesto Chicken Bake: A Delicious and Easy Dinner Recipe

Admin

13 Feb, 2025

Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that requires minimal cleanup? This One Pan Pesto Chicken Bake is the perfect solution!

Packed with juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and the bold flavors of basil pesto, this dish is a fantastic weeknight dinner that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, everything bakes in one pan, making preparation and cleanup a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Wonder: Less mess, less stress.
Time-Saving: Preps in just 10 minutes and bakes to perfection in 30 minutes.
Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and wholesome vegetables.
Flavorful & Versatile: Customizable with different vegetables and protein options.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this easy One Pan Pesto Chicken Bake, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

For the Vegetables:

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup zucchini, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
½ red onion, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder

For Topping:

½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a large baking dish or sheet pan lightly with olive oil or cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish.
Season them with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Spread a generous layer of pesto over each chicken breast, ensuring they are well coated.

Step 3: Prep the Vegetables

In a large bowl, toss cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Spread the vegetables evenly around the chicken in the baking dish.

Step 4: Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Add Cheese

Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve warm! Pair it with rice, pasta, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Pesto Chicken Bake

Use Fresh Pesto: Homemade pesto enhances the flavors, but store-bought works well too.
Don’t Overbake the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Add a Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs on top before serving.
Make it Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
Swap the Protein: Try salmon, shrimp, or tofu for a different twist.

FAQs

1. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and add extra flavor. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C).

2. What Vegetables Work Best in This Dish?

This recipe is very versatile. You can use asparagus, broccoli, mushrooms, or even green beans.

3. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

4. Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Prep the chicken and vegetables in the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

5. What Can I Serve with This Dish?

Serve it with pasta, quinoa, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

6. Is This Recipe Keto-Friendly?

Yes! This One Pan Pesto Chicken Bake is low-carb and perfect for a keto diet. Just watch the portion size on tomatoes if you're tracking carbs.

7. Can I Freeze This Dish?

While you can freeze it, the texture of the vegetables may change upon thawing. For best results, freeze just the cooked chicken and make fresh veggies when reheating.

Final Thoughts

This One Pan Pesto Chicken Bake is an easy, delicious, and healthy meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a stress-free dinner option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Try it out today and enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal with your family!

Did you try this recipe?

Let us know in the comments below and share your delicious creations on social media. Happy cooking!