pesto chicken thigh recipe

The Best pesto chicken thigh recipe

This pesto chicken thigh recipe is a game-changer for any home cook. I first discovered it on a trip to Italy, where I fell in love with the rich, herby flavor of pesto and the tender, juicy texture of chicken thighs.

Since then, I’ve made it countless times for my family and friends, and it never fails to impress. The key to this recipe is in the preparation – you want to make sure your chicken is nice and dry before dredging it in flour, then shaking off any excess.

This ensures that the pesto sauce adheres evenly and doesn’t become too overpowering. By following these simple steps, you’ll end up with a dish that’s both flavorful and visually appealing.

One thing that sets this recipe apart from other pesto dishes is its use of fresh basil instead of dried herbs. This gives the sauce a bright, almost grassy taste that complements the richness of the chicken perfectly.

I like to serve this recipe with a side of roasted vegetables or pasta for a well-rounded meal that’s easy to prepare and satisfying to eat. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pesto chicken thigh recipe is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Pesto Chicken Thighs

4.9 from 1728 votes

Juicy chicken thighs are coated in a vibrant basil pesto and baked until golden and crisp. This simple yet flavorful dish comes together in under an hour for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2.5 lbs)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/3 cup prepared basil pesto
2 tablespoons olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides evenly with salt and pepper.
3In a small bowl, stir together the pesto and olive oil until combined.
4Brush the mixture generously over each chicken thigh, covering all surfaces.
5Arrange the thighs skin-side up in a single layer in the baking dish.
6Roast for 30 to 35 minutes, until the skin is deep golden brown and crisp, and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165°F.
7Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
8Spoon any pan juices over the chicken for extra moisture.

🔧Equipment

Large baking dish (9×13 inch)
Small bowl
Measuring spoons
Instant-read thermometer

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 180mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 3g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 38g

📝Notes

For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes. Serve with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.

Watch Video Of How Pesto Chicken Thighs Works

This pesto chicken thigh recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick and easy meal for your family.

The leftovers are perfect for packing in lunches or reheating for a quick dinner later in the week.

One thing I love about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can serve it as is or add some roasted vegetables on top for added nutrition and flavor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pesto Chicken Thighs

Q: What type of chicken thighs are best for this recipe?

A: For this recipe, you’ll want to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. You can also use bone-in thighs if you prefer, but keep in mind that they may be slightly more difficult to cook evenly.

Q: Can I substitute other herbs for the basil in this recipe?

A: While fresh basil is ideal for this recipe, you can substitute other herbs like parsley or oregano if you prefer. Just be aware that each herb will change the flavor profile slightly.

Q: How do I store leftover pesto sauce?

A: If you have leftover pesto sauce, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze it for up to 6 months.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the pesto sauce and chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover pesto chicken?

A: To reheat leftover pesto chicken, place it in a skillet over medium heat and add a little bit of oil if necessary. Stir frequently until heated through.

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