20 Italian Pesto Chicken Recipe You Must Try Them!
Published on: Mar 15, 2024
In the world of Italian cuisine, pesto is a beloved and versatile sauce that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. One of the most popular ways to enjoy pesto is in a flavorful chicken dish that combines the richness of pesto with the tenderness of chicken. This Italian pesto chicken recipe is a must-try for any food lover, as it brings together the traditional flavors of Italy in a simple yet delectable dish. Let's dive into this easy and delicious recipe that will have you saying "delizioso" with every bite.
This hearty and flavorful dish combines tender chicken with creamy rice, all baked together in a rich tomato sauce. The addition of Italian herbs and spices adds a delicious twist to a classic casserole. Serve with a fresh salad or crusty bread for the perfect weeknight meal.
2of 20
Pesto Chicken Thighs with Italian Creme Sauce Over...
Main Ingredients: Boneless Chicken Thighs, Pesto Sauce, Couscous
Tender and juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a zesty pesto sauce before being grilled to perfection. A creamy Italian creme sauce is then drizzled over the top for a mouthwatering finishing touch. This dish is sure to impress at your next dinner party or family gathering.
3of 20
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta with Bacon and Veggies
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Chicken Breasts, Bowtie Pasta
Pasta lovers rejoice! This creamy pesto chicken pasta is loaded with crispy bacon, fresh veggies, and tender chicken for a satisfying and flavorful meal. The addition of a rich and creamy sauce takes this dish to the next level, making it a perfect comfort food option.
4of 20
Chicken Marbella
Main Ingredients: Chickens, Garlic, Dried Oregano, Kosher Salt, Freshly
This classic Italian dish features tender chicken cooked in a flavorful marinade of olive oil, garlic, capers, and olives. The combination of sweet and savory flavors creates a mouthwatering dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Serve over a bed of rice or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
5of 20
Italian Pesto Chicken Salad
Main Ingredients: Light Mayonnaise, Pesto, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder
Tired of the same old boring salads? This Italian twist on a classic chicken salad is sure to liven up your lunch routine. Tender chicken is combined with fresh vegetables, tangy Italian dressing, and a generous serving of pesto for a burst of flavor in every bite.
6of 20
Italian Pesto Chicken with Creamy Marinara
Main Ingredients: Green Pesto, Italian Dressing, Boneless, Skinless
This simple yet delicious dish features tender chicken cooked in a creamy marinara sauce with the addition of flavorful pesto. Serve over a bed of pasta or with a side of garlic bread for a satisfying and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love.
7of 20
Pesto Chicken Tortellini
Main Ingredients: Buitoni Three Cheese Tortellini, Boneless Skinless
Upgrade your traditional tortellini dish with the addition of tender chicken and zesty pesto sauce. This flavorful and hearty dish is perfect for a cold winter night or a quick and easy dinner option any time of year. Serve with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
8of 20
Pesto Chicken Pizza
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Pesto, Pizza Dough, Pizza Sauce, Mozzarella
Take your pizza game to the next level with this delicious and unique pizza recipe. Tender chicken is combined with fresh vegetables, tangy pesto sauce, and a variety of Italian cheeses for a mouthwatering flavor explosion. Perfect for a family movie night or a gathering with friends.
9of 20
Authentic Italian Chicken Cacciatore
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Celery, Rosemary, Red Wine, Peeled Tomatoes
This traditional Italian dish features tender chicken cooked in a rich tomato sauce with the addition of vegetables and aromatic herbs. Serve over a bed of pasta or with a side of crusty bread for a hearty and satisfying meal that will transport you straight to Italy.
This comforting soup features tender chicken meatballs, hearty vegetables, and flavorful herbs in a rich and savory broth. Perfect for a cold winter day or when you're feeling under the weather, this soup is sure to warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds.
11of 20
Pesto Chicken Calzone
Main Ingredients: Bread Flour, Yeast, Sugar, Warm Water, Olive Oil, Salt
This handheld version of a classic Italian dish is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner option. Tender chicken, flavorful pesto, and a variety of cheeses are wrapped in a crispy and flaky crust for a portable and delicious meal that can be enjoyed on the go.
12of 20
Pesto Chicken Stuffed Shells
Main Ingredients: Jumbo Pasta Shells, Chicken, Ricotta Cheese, Grated
Upgrade your traditional stuffed shells with the addition of tender chicken and zesty pesto sauce. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or when you're craving a hearty and flavorful meal. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
13of 20
Pesto Chicken Manicotti
Main Ingredients: Pasta Shells, White Onion, Olive Oil, Garlic Cloves
This classic Italian dish features tender chicken, creamy ricotta cheese, and flavorful pesto all wrapped up in a delicate manicotti shell. The addition of a rich and savory tomato sauce takes this dish to the next level, making it a perfect option for a special occasion or family gathering.
14of 20
Pesto Chicken Lasagna Rolls
Main Ingredients: Pesto, Lasagna Noodles, Chicken, Part Skim Ricotta
Put a twist on a classic Italian dish with these delicious and unique lasagna rolls. Tender chicken, creamy ricotta cheese, and tangy pesto are rolled up in lasagna noodles and baked to perfection. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
This hearty and flavorful casserole features tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy Alfredo sauce all baked together with a layer of crispy breadcrumbs on top. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone.
16of 20
Chicken Scampi
Main Ingredients: Linguini, Chicken, Cornstarch, Italian Seasoning, Salt
This classic Italian dish features tender chicken cooked in a savory and buttery garlic sauce with the addition of fresh herbs and lemon juice. Serve over a bed of pasta or with a side of crusty bread for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
This comforting and flavorful soup features tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs in a rich broth. Perfect for a cold winter day or when you're feeling under the weather, this soup is sure to warm you up and make you feel better.
18of 20
Italian Style Breaded Chicken Cutlets
Main Ingredients: Italian Style Breadcrumbs, Parmigiano Reggiano, Garlic
Elevate your traditional breaded chicken cutlets with the addition of Italian herbs and spices. These crispy and flavorful cutlets are perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or can be used as a base for a variety of other Italian dishes.
19of 20
Slow Cooker Easy Italian Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Sweet Potatoes, Bell Pepper, Onion, Black
This easy and delicious slow cooker dish features tender chicken cooked in a savory tomato sauce with the addition of Italian herbs and spices. Simply set it and forget it for a flavorful and satisfying meal that will be ready when you are.
20of 20
Pesto Chicken Pizza with Mascarpone, Spinach, and...
Main Ingredients: Pizza Dough, Olive Oil, Yellow Onion, Basil Pesto
This gourmet pizza is sure to impress with its unique combination of flavors and textures. Tender chicken, creamy mascarpone cheese, and tangy pesto are topped with fresh spinach and a variety of Italian cheeses for a delicious and indulgent pizza experience. Perfect for a special occasion or a date night at home.
Ingredients:
For the pesto:
Basil: 2 cups
Garlic: 3 cloves
Pine nuts: ¼ cup
Extra virgin olive oil: ½ cup
Parmesan cheese: ½ cup
Salt and pepper: to taste
For the chicken:
Chicken breasts: 4, boneless and skinless
Salt and pepper: to taste
Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
Olive oil: for cooking
Before we get started, it's important to note that pesto is a sauce that originated in Genoa, Italy and is traditionally made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and parmesan cheese. This sauce is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
Instructions:
Make the pesto: In a food processor, combine the basil, garlic, pine nuts, and parmesan cheese. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while the food processor is running until the pesto is smooth and well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
Assemble the dish: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, top each chicken breast with a generous amount of pesto, spreading it evenly over the surface. Serve hot and enjoy!
This Italian pesto chicken recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. The pesto adds a burst of flavor to the tender chicken, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Serve it with your favorite pasta or vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tip: If you have any leftover pesto, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can use it as a spread for sandwiches, a dip for vegetables, or even as a topping for pizza.
So next time you're craving Italian flavors, give this pesto chicken recipe a try and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. Buon appetito!