Description
Pesto Grilled Chicken is a simple and delicious dinner featuring tender chicken breasts coated in vibrant basil pesto, infused with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Grilling imparts a smoky char while keeping the chicken juicy and packed with flavor, making it a perfect meal for summer or any occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup basil pesto
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Finishing and Garnish
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are of even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the basil pesto, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and thoroughly coat each piece with the pesto mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors infuse.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (200°C), creating a perfect cooking environment for charred edges and juicy meat.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and place them on the grill. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), indicating the chicken is safely cooked.
- Add Parmesan: During the last minute of grilling, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken breasts for a savory, melty finish.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- Serve and Garnish: Garnish the grilled chicken with fresh basil leaves and serve with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the top for a fresh citrus burst.
Notes
- You can use either homemade or store-bought basil pesto depending on your preference and time availability.
- Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts; adjust cooking time since thighs may require slightly longer grilling.
- To maintain juicy chicken, avoid overcooking by monitoring temperature carefully.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
