Pesto Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Pesto Chicken Parmesan Recipe

by

Pesto Chicken Parmesan Recipe is one of my favorite ways to enjoy chicken. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and definitely a crowd-pleaser. Imagine crispy chicken covered in rich pesto, with melted cheese bubbling on top. Every bite is a delightful experience. I’m excited to share my simple steps to create this delicious dish that has become a staple in my kitchen.

Ingredients for Pesto Chicken Parmesan

Servings: 4 servings

Chicken Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup of your favorite pesto sauce
  • 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup of breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying

How to Prepare Pesto Chicken Parmesan

  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and the cheese will melt perfectly.
  • Prepare Your Chicken: Pat dry the chicken breasts with a paper towel and season them with salt and pepper. This simple step allows the flavors to shine.
  • Dredging Station: Set up a dredging station. In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, mix together breadcrumbs and half of the Parmesan cheese.

Coating the Chicken

  • Coat with Egg: Dip each chicken breast in the egg mixture. Make sure it’s well-coated so the breadcrumbs stick nicely.
  • Coat with Breadcrumbs: Next, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture. I find it helpful to gently pat the breadcrumbs onto the chicken for a better coat. Repeat this until all chicken breasts are covered.
  • Fry the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
See also  Sourdough Pancake or Waffle Batter Recipe

Assembling Pesto Chicken Parmesan

  • Place in Baking Dish: After frying, transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
  • Spread the Pesto: Spoon the pesto sauce generously over each chicken breast. This is where the magic happens—pesto adds a wonderful herby flavor.
  • Add Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and remaining Parmesan cheese on top of each piece of chicken. Who can resist extra cheese?

Baking the Chicken

  • Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, which is always a sign that dinner is about to be delicious.
  • Check for Doneness: To ensure your chicken is ready, cut into the thickest part of a breast. The juices should run clear, and the inside should no longer be pink.

Serving Suggestions

  • Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle some fresh basil on top for added flavor and color. It’ll make your dish look beautiful!
  • Pair with Sides: Pesto Chicken Parmesan goes well with various sides. I prefer serving it with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad.
  • Leftovers: If you have leftovers, don’t worry! You can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for about three days.

Tips for the Best Pesto Chicken Parmesan

  • Choose Quality Pesto: A homemade pesto or high-quality store-bought option will elevate your dish. Fresh is always best when it comes to flavor!
  • Avoid Overcrowding: When frying the chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan. This helps achieve that nice crispy texture without steaming the chicken.
  • Let it Rest: After baking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite juicy and flavorful.
See also  Chicken Cordon Bleu Bites Recipe

Variations of Pesto Chicken Parmesan

  • Add Veggies: Feel free to add thin slices of tomatoes or spinach on top of the chicken before adding cheese for some extra nutrients.
  • Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with different kinds of cheese like provolone or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
  • Make it Spicy: If you’re into spicy food, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the pesto for a little kick.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

While I won’t list exact nutritional values, I can tell you this dish is balanced. It’s a good source of protein from chicken, healthy fats from olive oil, and vitamins from the pesto. Pair it with vegetables to create a complete meal.

Enjoying Your Pesto Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Pesto Chicken Parmesan is a delightful dish that brings a bit of Italian magic to your table. It’s quick to prepare and can impress your family and friends without hours spent in the kitchen. As someone who loves sharing meals with loved ones, this recipe has a special place in my heart. I hope it becomes a favorite in your home too!