© Original Recipe By Megan May © Easy One-Pan Pesto Chicken and Veggies for a Quick Weeknight Dinner 🍗🌿🥗 1. Introduction Looking for an easy veggie chicken recipe that combines vibrant flavors and minimal cleanup? This One-Pan Pesto Chicken recipe is your perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s an easy chicken dinner that packs a punch with fresh pesto, juicy chicken breasts, and colorful vegetables—all cooked in a single skillet. Not only does it save you time, but it also locks in delicious flavors, making it a favorite for family dinners. 2. Ingredients for the Perfect One-Pan Pesto Chicken 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1 cup fresh basil pesto 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1 zucchini, sliced 1 red bell pepper, sliced 2 tablespoons olive oil Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping 3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make One-Pan Pesto Chicken Prepare the Chicken and Veggies Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside. Cook the Vegetables In the same skillet, add the sliced zucchini, red bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender and slightly charred, enhancing their flavor. Combine Chicken and Pesto Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Spread the basil pesto evenly over the chicken breasts. Cover and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to become juicy. Serve and Garnish Once cooked, transfer the chicken and veggies to plates. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. For an extra touch, serve with a side of your favorite grain or fresh bread. 4. Tips and Variations for Your One-Pan Pesto Chicken Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for more juiciness. Try adding spinach or arugula just before serving for added greens. Replace basil pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor profile. For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. 5. How to Store and Reheat Leftovers Store any leftover easy veggie chicken recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes or heat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Ensure the pesto doesn’t dry out by adding a splash of olive oil or a little water when reheating. 6. Serving Suggestions for Your Pesto Chicken Dinner This quick chicken dinner pairs beautifully with: Crusty French bread or garlic baguette Light mixed greens salad with balsamic vinaigrette Steamed or roasted potatoes Quinoa or cooked pasta with a drizzle of olive oil For a more hearty meal, consider adding a side of [crispy breakfast potatoes](https://deliciousdailyrecipes.com/crispy-bangin-breakfast-potatoes-your-new-brunch-obsession/) 7. FAQ About One-Pan Pesto Chicken Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe? Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works perfectly and saves time. Just choose a quality brand for the best flavor. What are good substitutions for chicken breasts? You can substitute chicken thighs or turkey cutlets. Just adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure everything stays juicy and tender. How long does it take to make this dish? The entire process takes approximately 30 minutes, making it an ideal quick chicken dinner for busy weeknights. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Yes, it stores well in the fridge, and leftovers can be easily reheated, making it a great meal prep option. 8. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: This versatile tool helps you cook and reheat leftovers quickly. T-fal 14-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set: A reliable set of cookware that ensures even cooking for your chicken and vegetables. Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer: Perfect for grilling or crisping chicken to perfection at home. Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Espresso & Coffee Maker: Enjoy a refreshing coffee alongside your dinner. KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer: Great for preparing homemade pesto or other sauces. Many of these tools can elevate your cooking experience and make preparing this One-Pan Pesto Chicken even more enjoyable. 9. Conclusion This One-Pan Pesto Chicken offers a quick, flavorful, and easy solution for weeknight dinners. With simple ingredients and minimal clean-up, it’s an ideal dish for busy households. The combination of juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic pesto creates a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a wholesome meal in just about 30 minutes. Happy cooking!
