Contents
Craving a delectable weeknight dinner? Look no further! Grilled Pesto Chicken Recipe is the perfect solution. Quick and easy to make, this dish is packed with flavour. It’s certain to please your taste buds and make your night a breeze!
This grilled pesto chicken recipe is ideal for summer days. Savour the fresh ingredients and the aroma of grilled food outdoors. Bursting with flavour and healthy components, this easy-to-make dish will be a hit at your next BBQ.
Pesto is packed with herbs, nuts and cheese – a great source of protein, fat and flavour. Serve this grilled pesto chicken for a balanced meal your guests will love! Seconds, anyone?
1. Gather Ingredients
Grill up some delicious pesto chicken for a yummy dinner!
- Combine four boneless, skinless chicken breasts with 1/4 cup of pesto sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Heat up 1/4 cup of olive oil and mix in two cloves of minced garlic. Squeeze in two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.
- Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of finely chopped parsley. Optional: Grate some Parmesan cheese on top for garnish.
Enjoy your flavorful meal!
2. Preparation
Grilled pesto chicken is a delicious and easy dinner. It doesn’t take long to prepare and with just a few simple ingredients, you can create a tasty meal. To make it, you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of prepared pesto sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil
Oil each piece of chicken lightly on both sides. This will help it brown on the grill. Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat up the outdoor grill – gas or charcoal – until it’s ready for grilling. Place the oiled and seasoned pieces of chicken directly on the grill grate over medium heat. Close the cover of the grill to trap in heat from all sides. Cook for about 8 minutes per side or until cooked through (165°F).
Once cooked through, brush each piece with prepared pesto sauce on both sides. Make sure every bit gets covered. Serve immediately while still hot. Enjoy with a side salad or your favorite vegetable dish!
3. Cooking Instructions
It’s time to cook! Heat a grill or grill pan on high. Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill 5-7 minutes each side. Then, cover with foil and let sit for 5 minutes.
In another pan, heat butter. Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add pesto and cream cheese. Stir till melted and bubbly (2-3 minutes). Remove from heat.
To serve: Top chicken with pesto sauce. Enjoy while hot!
4. Serving Suggestions
Take your Grilled Pesto Chicken meal to the next level with the perfect sides! Complement the flavors of the pesto with basmati rice, pasta, or steamed veggies like green beans, broccoli, and cauliflower. For a protein-packed meal, try grilled salmon or shrimp. And for a healthier dessert, pick up some seasonal fruit – like strawberries or oranges. You can even make a platter and use it as a centrepiece for dinner parties!
No matter which sides you choose, this Grilled Pesto Chicken dish will be tantalizingly tasty!
Variations
Grilled pesto chicken is so versatile! Whether you’re looking to spice up your meals or trying something new, this dish is sure to please. Start with marinated chicken breasts and pesto spread. Then, add fresh garlic and herbs like basil or oregano for flavor. Store-bought pasta sauce is also a great substitute.
For texture and flavor, dice onion and bell pepper and add to the pesto. Top with mozzarella slices or feta cheese before grilling. Serve over hot cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Want something spicier? Add chili powder, cayenne pepper or your favorite spicy seasoning mix to the marinade. Throw in diced jalapenos for added heat and flavor. For moisture, mix melted butter in with the pesto before spreading on the chicken as it cooks.
Grilled pesto chicken is sure to become a favorite!
Nutrition Facts
Yum! Grilled pesto chicken is a great meal or snack. It’s packed with protein to help your body build and repair muscles. Plus, it’s high in fiber. Here are the nutrition facts for 4 ounces of cooked pesto chicken:
- Calories: 224
- Fat: 13g
- Cholesterol: 47mg
- Sodium: 283mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 19g
- Vitamin A: 5% Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 6% DV
- Calcium: 8% DV
- Iron: 8% DV
Conclusion
Ready to eat? Grill the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice it thinly across the grain. Serve warm with a dollop of pesto, crushed red pepper and parmesan cheese if you like. Yummy!
Hot summer day? Grill some veggies and have them with this zesty grilled pesto chicken. It’s a simple yet super flavorful dish that will get rave reviews!
