If you're looking to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's bursting with flavor and freshness, look no further than Basil Arugula Pesto Chicken Breasts! This Italian-inspired recipe combines succulent chicken breasts with a vibrant, homemade pesto that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a meal that will impress your family and friends, making them wonder if you’ve been taking secret cooking lessons. Ready to tantalize your taste buds? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh basil
- 1 cup arugula
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and reaches the desired internal temperature.
- Prepare the chicken breasts by rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Season both sides of each chicken breast generously with salt and pepper.
- In a food processor, combine the fresh basil, arugula, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic cloves. Pulse the mixture until finely chopped.
- While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure everything is well combined. Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- In an oven-safe skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.
- Once the chicken is seared, remove the skillet from the heat. Spoon the basil arugula pesto evenly over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring they are well coated.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps to retain the juices and keeps the chicken tender.
- Serve the Basil Arugula Pesto Chicken Breasts warm, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh basil and arugula. The freshness of the herbs is key to making a vibrant pesto that really shines.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken while it bakes. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Customize Your Pesto: Feel free to experiment with your pesto! Adding nuts like pine nuts or walnuts can give it an extra crunch, while a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the freshness.
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve your Basil Arugula Pesto Chicken Breasts with roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal that balances flavors and textures.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 394kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 70mg
