If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and comes together quickly, you’re going to adore this Italian Chicken with Basil Pesto & Grape Tomatoes Recipe. It’s a brilliant combination of juicy chicken breasts, fragrant basil pesto, and sweet, juicy grape tomatoes baked to perfection. Each bite offers a delightful balance of savory, herbaceous, and tangy notes that will have you savoring every forkful. Plus, it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough to share with friends or family on special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, straightforward ingredients is the secret to making this dish soar. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding moisture, brightness, or that irresistible Italian flair.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein star that soaks up all the delicious flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural taste of the chicken and balances the pesto’s herbs.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that complements the other ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for a golden sear and that lovely Mediterranean richness.
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved: These burst with sweetness and add freshness and color to the dish.
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade): The heart of the recipe, infusing everything with that unmistakable basil and garlic punch.
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese (optional): Melts into a gooey, savory topping that takes the flavor up a notch.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of green and amplifies the basil aroma for a beautiful finish.
How to Make Italian Chicken with Basil Pesto & Grape Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry and seasoning both sides with salt and black pepper. This simple seasoning is key to developing flavor. Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. This step locks in juices and sets the stage for a succulent bake.
Step 2: Add Basil Pesto and Grape Tomatoes
With the chicken beautifully browned, remove the skillet from the heat. Spoon the basil pesto evenly over each piece, ensuring every bite is herbaceous and rich. Then, scatter the halved grape tomatoes on top—these little bursts of sweetness will soften and caramelize in the oven, adding juicy pops of flavor that contrast perfectly with the pesto.
Step 3: Sprinkle Cheese and Bake
If you’re using cheese, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan generously over everything. Then, transfer the skillet straight to your preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and slightly golden. This baking step melds all the flavors and finishes the chicken with a tender, juicy texture.
How to Serve Italian Chicken with Basil Pesto & Grape Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves aren’t just for show. Adding them right before serving delivers a fragrant herbal note that brightens the dish beautifully. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also elevate the visual appeal and add a subtle, fruity richness.
Side Dishes
Serve this vibrant chicken alongside your favorite pasta tossed with olive oil or buttered garlic rice for a complete, comforting meal. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pesto and chicken, adding freshness and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, slice the chicken breasts and fan them on the plate topped with the roasted grape tomatoes and pesto sauce. Arrange colorful vegetable ribbons or roasted asparagus around the edges for a restaurant-quality look that’s sure to impress anyone you’re serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Italian Chicken with Basil Pesto & Grape Tomatoes Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers a fantastic option for quick lunches or dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked portions by wrapping them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. They will maintain quality for up to two months. When freezing, it’s best to leave off fresh basil garnish and add it fresh once reheated.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to preserve the chicken’s tenderness and prevent the pesto from separating. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that might dry out the chicken or alter the texture of the pesto and tomatoes.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a richer flavor and stay juicy, but you will need to adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked through.
Is homemade pesto better than store-bought?
Homemade pesto is wonderful for a fresh, vibrant flavor, but good-quality store-bought pesto works great and saves time while keeping the dish delicious.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative so everyone can enjoy the Italian Chicken with Basil Pesto & Grape Tomatoes Recipe without worry.
What’s the best way to know when the chicken is done?
Using a meat thermometer is ideal—165°F (74°C) inside ensures the chicken is safe to eat and perfectly cooked. If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part to check that the juices run clear.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can do all the prep, including seasoning and topping the chicken with pesto and tomatoes, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. This saves time on busy days!
Final Thoughts
This Italian Chicken with Basil Pesto & Grape Tomatoes Recipe is hands down a favorite for bringing bold, fresh Italian flavors to your table with minimal fuss. It’s healthy, colorful, and bursting with charm that feels both comforting and special. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find yourself making it a regular in your meal rotation because it’s that good and that simple.
Print
Italian Chicken with Basil Pesto & Grape Tomatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of Italy with this Italian Chicken with Basil Pesto & Grape Tomatoes recipe. Tender chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection, topped with fragrant basil pesto and juicy grape tomatoes, then baked for a juicy, savory main dish perfect for any weeknight dinner. Enhanced with optional cheese and fresh basil garnish, this gluten-free meal pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a crisp salad.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle salt and black pepper evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts to enhance flavor.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken breasts in the skillet, cooking for 2–3 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Add Pesto and Tomatoes: Remove the skillet from the heat, then spoon basil pesto evenly over each chicken breast. Top with halved grape tomatoes for freshness and color.
- Add Cheese (Optional): Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the chicken if desired, for a rich, creamy touch.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves if using, and serve hot alongside your choice of sides.
Notes
- This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts; just remember to adjust cooking time accordingly.
