Easy Basil Pesto Chicken for Weeknights

Introduction

If you crave vibrant flavors and crave speed on busy nights, Easy Basil Pesto Chicken is the perfect solution. The freshness of homemade pesto transforms simple chicken into a lively, aromatic weeknight dinner, requiring minimal effort yet delivering maximum satisfaction. Whether you’re hosting or flying solo, this dish sits at the intersection of bold taste and pure simplicity, making it a perennial crowd-pleaser.

Why This Easy Basil Pesto Chicken Wins Every Time

Few meals rival the punchy herbs, creamy nuts, and tangy cheese in pesto when paired with juicy, perfectly cooked chicken. What makes this recipe shine is its versatility—pile it on pasta, layer it onto a sandwich, or enjoy as is with a simple salad. Because every step is streamlined, you get a rustic restaurant experience at home, fast.

Whipping Up Fresh Basil Pesto

For the very best flavor, make your own pesto. Combine fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a blender. The Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender makes quick work of blending pesto to the ideal creamy consistency in seconds.

If you want to chop herbs and garlic quickly before blending, the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper efficiently preps ingredients for speedy assembly and even flavor distribution.

Perfectly Cooked Chicken, Every Time

Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. For fast, even cooking (and easy cleanup), use the COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt. The air fryer ensures your chicken emerges golden and juicy in just minutes, without splatter or fuss.

Before air frying or sautéing, brush each piece with a thin layer of olive oil. For consistent application and less waste, try the TrendPlain 16oz/470ml Olive Oil Sprayer for Cooking.

For those who prefer stovetop cooking, a nonstick pan like the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch provides sear without sticking, perfect for weeknight shortcuts.

Assembling and Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, toss the chicken in your vibrant pesto. Serve over a fresh bed of greens, pasta, or fluffy rice. For meal-prepping or lunch on-the-go, use the Bentgo Salad Container – 54 oz Bowl to keep components separate and fresh.

Round out the plate with blistered cherry tomatoes, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, and cracked black pepper for a pop of color and flavor. Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling water for a bistro-worthy dinner at home.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields four generous servings, each at approximately 330 calories, depending on how much pesto is used and your sides. Packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh herbs, it fits a variety of eating styles from low-carb to Mediterranean.

Easy Basil Pesto Chicken (Recap)

This Easy Basil Pesto Chicken explodes with flavor but keeps your weeknights blissfully simple. With just a few fresh ingredients and smart kitchen tools, this recipe transforms everyday chicken into something special—ideal for busy home cooks, picky eaters, and anyone chasing great taste on a tight schedule.

Instructions

1. Make the pesto: In a Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender, combine basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Prep the chicken: Pat dry and season chicken with salt and pepper. Brush lightly with olive oil using the TrendPlain 16oz/470ml Olive Oil Sprayer for Cooking for even coverage.
3. Cook the chicken: Arrange chicken in the COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt, set to 400°F, and cook for 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway (or sauté in a SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch over medium-high heat, 5-7 minutes per side). Let rest 2 minutes before slicing.
4. Toss chicken with pesto. Serve over greens, pasta, or rice. Garnish with cherry tomatoes, basil, and extra Parmesan. If meal prepping, portion in the Bentgo Salad Container – 54 oz Bowl for easy lunches.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes