If you’re searching for a quick and flavorful dinner option, look no further. These baked pesto chicken thighs are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with vibrant flavors. Coat chicken thighs with pesto and bake until done, serving with pasta or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Imagine succulent chicken thighs enveloped in a rich, aromatic pesto, baked to perfection. This dish combines the earthiness of the chicken with the freshness of basil, making it a delightful experience for your taste buds. It’s the ideal solution for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Delicious Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs
These baked pesto chicken thighs are juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
The pesto adds a savory touch that elevates the dish, making it perfect for pairing with pasta or a refreshing salad.
Visualize a plate generously adorned with these chicken thighs and vibrant colors inviting you to indulge.
Aromatic Pesto Essence
The heart of this dish lies in the rich, aromatic pesto.
Coating chicken thighs with pesto and baking until done allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Every bite reveals the depth of taste that comes from quality ingredients.
Perfect Pasta Pairing
Serving the chicken over a bed of fresh pasta creates a delightful combination.
The pasta soaks up any flavorful juices from the chicken, enhancing each mouthful.
Cherry tomatoes nestled among the pasta not only add color but also a burst of freshness to balance the dish.
Garnishing for Presentation
Presentation plays a significant role in any meal.
Sprinkling parmesan cheese over the dish provides a salty richness.
Surrounding the plate with fresh basil leaves offers a pop of color and reinforces the herbaceous notes of the pesto.
Rustic Table Setting
The setting enhances the overall dining experience.
A rustic wooden table paired with a light linen napkin creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
This inviting backdrop makes the meal feel special, perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests.
Quick and Easy Preparation
This recipe stands out for its simplicity and speed.
With just a 10-minute prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 40 minutes.
It’s an ideal choice for busy evenings without compromising on flavor or presentation.
Delicious Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs
These baked pesto chicken thighs are juicy, tender, and full of flavor. The pesto adds a savory touch that elevates the dish, making it perfect for pairing with pasta or a refreshing salad.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional)
- Cooked pasta or fresh salad for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Coat the chicken thighs with pesto, ensuring they are evenly covered.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. If desired, add cherry tomatoes around the chicken for added flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
- Serve the baked pesto chicken thighs over cooked pasta or alongside a fresh salad. Spoon any pan juices over the chicken for extra flavor.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.