Presto Pesto Chicken

chefs-mate chefs-mate 0 Comments
Servings: 4 Difficulty: Intermediate
Jump To Recipe Print Recipe
Juicy chicken breasts coated in Italian breadcrumbs and topped with rich basil pesto and melted provolone.
Presto Pesto Chicken recipe image

This Presto Pesto Chicken is a quick yet elegant weeknight dinner that brings the vibrant flavors of Italy to your table. Tender chicken breasts are lightly coated in savory Italian-style breadcrumbs, then baked until golden. A generous layer of fresh basil pesto provides a burst of herbal aroma, while slices of provolone cheese melt over the top to create a creamy, savory finish. Garnished with fresh chopped parsley, this dish balances earthy, nutty notes with bright citrus and garlic undertones from the pesto. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something special without the fuss. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a complete, satisfying meal that feels homemade and comforting.

Presto Pesto Chicken recipe image
Print Recipe

Presto Pesto Chicken

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 4 Calories: 165.0

Description

This Presto Pesto Chicken is a quick yet elegant weeknight dinner that brings the vibrant flavors of Italy to your table. Tender chicken breasts are lightly coated in savory Italian-style breadcrumbs, then baked until golden. A generous layer of fresh basil pesto provides a burst of herbal aroma, while slices of provolone cheese melt over the top to create a creamy, savory finish. Garnished with fresh chopped parsley, this dish balances earthy, nutty notes with bright citrus and garlic undertones from the pesto. It&# 226;ÂÂs perfect for busy evenings when you want something special without the fuss. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a complete, satisfying meal that feels homemade and comforting.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350ðF (175ðC) and lightly oil a baking dish.
  2. Place the Italian-style breadcrumbs in a shallow dish.
  3. Pat chicken breasts dry and coat each one thoroughly in the breadcrumbs, turning to cover all sides.
  4. Arrange the coated chicken breasts in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
  5. Spoon prepared pesto evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
  6. Top each breast with one slice of provolone cheese and sprinkle with 1/2 tablespoon of chopped parsley.
  7. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and fork-tender.
  8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 165.0kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 3.6g6%
Saturated Fat 1.0g5%
Cholesterol 85.0mg29%
Sodium 74.0mg4%
Total Carbohydrate 0.0g0%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 0.0g
Protein 31.0g62%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

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

You can use mozzarella instead of provolone for a milder cheese flavor. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free Italian breadcrumbs.

Ensure chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165ðF (74ðC).

Keywords: chicken, pesto, italian, provolone, breadcrumbs, basil, baked, easy, weeknight, dinner, herb, garlic, parmesan, olive oil, cheese, main course, healthy, low carb, protein, comfort food
Recipe Card powered by WP Delicious