Pesto Chicken Thighs are a delicious dish where chicken thighs are cooked with pesto sauce. The rich, herby flavor of the pesto pairs wonderfully with the tender chicken, making it a crowd-pleasing meal. It’s simple to make and requires just a few ingredients like olive oil, garlic powder, and fresh basil.
Preparing Pesto Chicken Thighs takes about 10 minutes for prep and 25 minutes for baking. The total cook time is around 35 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal for any day of the week.
Pesto Chicken Thighs offer a fantastic balance of flavors, with the crispy skin of the chicken and the creamy, herby pesto sauce. The fresh basil and zesty lemon wedges on top create a refreshing contrast that elevates the dish. It’s a go-to recipe when you want something both easy and impressive for dinner. The result is always tender, flavorful chicken with a delightful pesto kick.
Why You’ll Love This Pesto Chicken Thighs
- Rich, Flavorful Taste: The pesto sauce adds a burst of flavor to tender chicken thighs. It combines basil, garlic, and Parmesan for a deliciously savory meal that’s never bland.
- Quick and Easy to Make: This pesto chicken recipe takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You can have a healthy and flavorful meal ready in no time.
- Perfectly Juicy and Tender: Chicken thighs are juicy and stay moist while cooking, offering a tender bite with every mouthful. They’re the ideal cut for this flavorful pesto recipe.
Ingredient Notes for Pesto Chicken Thighs
- Chicken Thighs: Skin-on, bone-in thighs work best for flavor and moisture. They cook up tender and juicy, perfect for this recipe.
- Pesto Sauce: Fresh basil pesto brings a burst of flavor with garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. You can use store-bought or homemade pesto.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps crisp the skin of the chicken. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste for a balanced flavor.
- Garlic Powder: A simple way to add extra garlic flavor without the hassle of fresh garlic.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: These bring a fresh, fragrant element that enhances the pesto flavor and adds a pop of color.
- Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the dish and adds a refreshing tang.
Pesto Chicken Thighs Variation
If you want to change things up, there are a few variations to try with your pesto chicken thighs. Here are some ideas:
- Grilled Veggies: Add grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to your plate. The smoky flavor of grilled veggies pairs well with the rich taste of pesto.
- Different Pesto Flavors: Experiment with different pesto variations. Swap the traditional basil for sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or arugula for a unique twist.
- Pasta Pairing: Serve the pesto chicken thighs with pasta tossed in more pesto sauce for a complete, satisfying meal.
How to Serve Pesto Chicken Thighs
Pesto chicken thighs are versatile and can be served in many ways:
- With a Side Salad: Pair your chicken with a light salad, like arugula, mixed greens, or a Greek salad. The fresh vegetables balance the richness of the chicken.
- With Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes complement the tenderness of the chicken and add a hearty side dish.
- Over Rice or Quinoa: For a more filling option, serve your pesto chicken thighs over rice or quinoa. Both options absorb the pesto sauce, making every bite delicious.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers, storing pesto chicken thighs is easy:
- In the Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until hot.
- In the Freezer: To freeze, place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.
FAQs About Pesto Chicken Thighs
How do I cook pesto chicken thighs?
To cook pesto chicken thighs, season the thighs, coat them in pesto, and bake or grill until fully cooked. You can also sear them in a pan for a crispy finish.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. If using breasts, be mindful of cooking time to avoid dryness.
Can I make pesto chicken thighs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare pesto chicken thighs in advance by marinating them in pesto and storing them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This helps the flavors deepen.
What sides pair well with pesto chicken thighs?
Pesto chicken thighs pair well with fresh vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a simple salad. You can also serve them with pasta for a complete meal.
Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs Recipe
Equipment
- Oven-safe Skillet
- Tongs
- Sharp Knife
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
- Baking sheet or tray
- Small Bowl
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless, skinless if you prefer)
- 1/4 cup store-bought or homemade pesto sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Start by patting your chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). This will help the chicken skin become crispy and flavorful when cooked.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear them for about 5-6 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the Pesto: Remove the skillet from heat. Spoon a generous amount of pesto sauce onto each chicken thigh, spreading it evenly over the top.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fully cooked.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and serve with lemon wedges for a bright, zesty kick.
