Best Pesto Chicken Breast Recipe

Ingredients

• 1.5 lb chicken breast (sliced in half lengthwise into thin cutlets)
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp pesto (used for marinade if not using pre-made vinaigrette)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (used for marinade if not using pre-made vinaigrette)
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise (used for marinade if not using pre-made vinaigrette)
• extra pesto (for dolloping)
• balsamic glaze (for drizzling)

Steps

1. 1

   Use a sharp chef’s knife to slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise, forming thin, even cutlets.

2. 2

   Season the chicken all over with 1 teaspoon each of kosher salt and black pepper.

3. 3

   Prepare the marinade: If you have prepped pesto vinaigrette, use ¼ cup. Otherwise, in a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons pesto, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and 2 tablespoons mayo.

4. 4

   Toss the chicken with the marinade until evenly coated. If time allows, let the chicken marinate for 30 minutes, up to 4 hours.

5. 5

   Preheat the grill to 500°F (260°C) and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

6. 6

   Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill and cook for 2 minutes.

7. 7

   Rotate the chicken 90 degrees and cook for another 2 minutes to create hatch marks.

8. 8

   Flip the chicken and cook for 1 minute.

9. 9

   Rotate the chicken 90 degrees again and cook for a final 1-2 minutes. The total cooking time should be 6-8 minutes.

10. 10

    Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

11. 11

    Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.

12. 12

    Dollop with extra pesto and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Notes

Alternate Cooking Methods: - Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F. Cook in a single layer for 4-5 minutes, flip, and cook another 3-4 minutes until 165°F. - Skillet: Heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side. - Oven: Bake at 425°F for 15-17 minutes, flipping halfway through. Serving Suggestion: Pairs well with caprese tortellini salad, balsamic asparagus, or garlic bread.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• chicken
• pesto
• grilling
• summer
• keto-friendly
• dinner
• quick-meal