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Pesto Chicken Skillet

Pesto Chicken Skillet
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Pesto Chicken Skillet is a quick, flavorful, and wholesome one-pan meal combining tender chicken breasts with vibrant basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, and melty mozzarella cheese. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and adaptable to accommodate various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins and Dairy

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 oz mozzarella cheese (slices or shredded)

Sauces and Oils

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/3 cup basil pesto

Produce

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper to create a flavorful base.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Push the cooked chicken to the edges of the skillet. Add minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes to the center. Cook until the garlic is fragrant and the tomatoes start to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Stir in the Pesto: Lower the heat and spoon the basil pesto evenly over the chicken and tomatoes, coating everything in the rich, vibrant sauce.
  5. Add Mozzarella and Melt: Place mozzarella slices or shredded cheese on top of each chicken breast. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the dish before serving for a bright, aromatic finish.

Notes

  • Use fresh basil pesto whenever possible to enhance the flavor.
  • Monitor cooking times carefully to avoid overcooking the chicken and ensure it stays juicy.
  • Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even cooking and browning without hot spots.
  • Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking to lock in juices.
  • Swap mozzarella for burrata or goat cheese for different textures and flavor profiles.

Nutrition

Keywords: pesto chicken, one-pan meal, quick dinner, basil pesto, skillet recipe, healthy dinner, gluten-free chicken

Find it online: https://elenaglam.com/pesto-chicken-skillet/