Pesto is a classic Italian sauce made from basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It’s a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta to pizza to chicken. In this article, we’ll explore how to cook chicken with pesto, including different cooking methods, tips, and recipe ideas.
Why Cook Chicken with Pesto?
Cooking chicken with pesto is a great way to add flavor and moisture to your chicken dishes. Pesto is a rich and creamy sauce that pairs well with the lean protein of chicken. It’s also a healthy option, as pesto is made with fresh herbs and olive oil, which are rich in antioxidants and healthy fats.
The Benefits of Cooking with Pesto
There are several benefits to cooking with pesto:
- Flavor: Pesto adds a rich and intense flavor to chicken dishes.
- Moisture: Pesto helps to keep chicken moist and tender.
- Health benefits: Pesto is made with fresh herbs and olive oil, which are rich in antioxidants and healthy fats.
- Convenience: Pesto is a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes.
Cooking Methods for Chicken with Pesto
There are several ways to cook chicken with pesto, including:
Grilling
Grilling is a great way to cook chicken with pesto. Simply brush the chicken with pesto and grill until cooked through.
Tips for Grilling Chicken with Pesto
- Make sure to oil the grates: This will help prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill.
- Don’t overcook: Chicken breasts can become dry and tough if overcooked.
- Let it rest: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Baking
Baking is another great way to cook chicken with pesto. Simply place the chicken in a baking dish, brush with pesto, and bake until cooked through.
Tips for Baking Chicken with Pesto
- Use a meat thermometer: This will help ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Don’t overcrowd: Make sure to leave enough space between each piece of chicken to allow for even cooking.
- Let it rest: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Pan-Seared
Pan-searing is a great way to cook chicken with pesto. Simply heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add the chicken, and cook until browned on both sides.
Tips for Pan-Seared Chicken with Pesto
- Use a hot skillet: This will help create a crispy crust on the chicken.
- Don’t overcook: Chicken breasts can become dry and tough if overcooked.
- Let it rest: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Recipe Ideas for Chicken with Pesto
Here are a few recipe ideas for chicken with pesto:
Pesto Chicken Breasts with Cherry Tomatoes
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup pesto
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Brush the chicken with pesto.
- Top with cherry tomatoes and basil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Pesto Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta of your choice
- 1/4 cup pesto
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, heat the pesto over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and basil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve over pasta.
Tips and Variations for Cooking Chicken with Pesto
Here are a few tips and variations for cooking chicken with pesto:
- Use different types of pesto: There are many different types of pesto, including classic basil pesto, sun-dried tomato pesto, and spinach pesto.
- Add some heat: If you like spicy food, you can add some red pepper flakes to the pesto for an extra kick.
- Use chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are a great option for cooking with pesto, as they are moist and flavorful.
- Add some lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can add a bright and citrusy flavor to the dish.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken with pesto is a delicious and easy way to add flavor and moisture to your chicken dishes. With its rich and intense flavor, pesto is a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta to pizza to chicken. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing, cooking chicken with pesto is a great way to create a healthy and flavorful meal.
What is pesto and how is it used in cooking chicken?
Pesto is a classic Italian sauce made from basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including pasta, pizza, and chicken. When used in cooking chicken, pesto adds a rich and flavorful sauce that complements the natural taste of the chicken.
In cooking chicken with pesto, the sauce is typically brushed or spread over the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking. This allows the flavors of the pesto to penetrate the chicken and create a deliciously moist and aromatic dish. Pesto can also be used as a marinade for chicken, where the chicken is left to soak in the sauce for several hours or overnight before cooking.
What type of chicken is best suited for cooking with pesto?
The best type of chicken for cooking with pesto is boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. These cuts of chicken are lean and tender, making them ideal for absorbing the flavors of the pesto sauce. Chicken breasts are a popular choice because they are easy to cook and can be sliced into thin strips or left whole.
Chicken thighs, on the other hand, are meatier and have a higher fat content, making them more juicy and flavorful. They are also easier to cook with pesto because they can be cooked at a lower temperature for a longer period, allowing the sauce to penetrate deeper into the meat.
How do I cook chicken with pesto in the oven?
To cook chicken with pesto in the oven, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then brush or spread a layer of pesto sauce over the chicken. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
During the last few minutes of cooking, you can increase the oven temperature to broil (high) to give the chicken a crispy exterior. This will also help to caramelize the pesto sauce and create a rich, golden-brown color.
Can I cook chicken with pesto on the grill?
Yes, you can cook chicken with pesto on the grill. In fact, grilling is a great way to add a smoky flavor to the chicken and pesto sauce. To grill chicken with pesto, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then brush or spread a layer of pesto sauce over the chicken.
Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through. During the last minute of cooking, you can brush the chicken with additional pesto sauce to create a glaze. This will help to lock in the flavors and create a crispy exterior.
How do I store leftover chicken cooked with pesto?
Leftover chicken cooked with pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to store the chicken in an airtight container, such as a glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. You can also store the chicken in a zip-top plastic bag, making sure to press out as much air as possible before sealing.
When storing leftover chicken, it’s a good idea to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. This will help to prevent bacterial growth and keep the chicken fresh for a longer period.
Can I freeze chicken cooked with pesto?
Yes, you can freeze chicken cooked with pesto. In fact, freezing is a great way to preserve the flavors and texture of the chicken. To freeze chicken cooked with pesto, let it cool to room temperature, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Frozen chicken cooked with pesto can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw the chicken in the refrigerator or reheat it in the oven or microwave.
What are some variations of chicken cooked with pesto?
There are many variations of chicken cooked with pesto, depending on your personal preferences and dietary needs. Some ideas include adding other herbs or spices to the pesto sauce, such as lemon zest or red pepper flakes. You can also add other ingredients to the chicken, such as cherry tomatoes or sliced bell peppers.
Another variation is to use different types of cheese in the pesto sauce, such as mozzarella or feta. You can also add some acidity to the sauce, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to balance out the flavors. Experimenting with different ingredients and flavors is a great way to create your own unique version of chicken cooked with pesto.