Oven-Roasted Chicken with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Pesto
Elevate your dinner table with this Oven-Roasted Chicken featuring a luscious sun-dried tomato basil pesto. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of garlic, all topped with a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. Serve alongside a fresh salad or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal that your family will love.
N/A
Servings
200
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
boneless chicken breasts
4 (with or without skin)
sun-dried tomatoes
1/2 cup (packed in oil)
oil
2 tablespoons (from jar of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes)
fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup (packed)
grated Parmesan cheese
2 1/2 tablespoons (freshly grated)
garlic
1 clove (minced)
fresh ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon (to taste)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C).
2
Line a 13x9 inch baking pan with aluminum foil for easy clean-up, and place the chicken breasts in the pan, arranging them in a single layer.
3
In a food processor, combine the sun-dried tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of their oil, fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and fresh ground black pepper. Blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy pesto consistency.
4
Spread approximately half of the pesto (about 1/4 cup) generously over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. An internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is ideal.
6
Once baked, carefully remove the pan from the oven and switch on the broiler.
7
Spread the remaining pesto over the chicken breasts, then place the pan under the broiler about 6 inches from the heat source. Broil for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken is nicely browned and slightly crispy on the edges.
8
Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, then serve hot. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
11.25g
Fat
4g
Carbs
20g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Oven-Roasted Chicken with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Pesto?
It is a flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with a homemade pesto made from sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
You should preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) for this recipe.
How long does the chicken need to bake?
The chicken should bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
What is the purpose of broiling the chicken at the end?
Broiling for 3-5 minutes helps brown the chicken and makes the edges slightly crispy for better texture and flavor.
Can I use chicken with the skin still on?
Yes, this recipe works well with either skin-on or skinless boneless chicken breasts.
What are the primary ingredients for the pesto?
The pesto consists of sun-dried tomatoes, their packing oil, fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and black pepper.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, it contains only 4g of carbohydrates per serving, making it an excellent low-carb or keto-friendly option.
How much protein does this dish provide?
This recipe provides 20g of protein per serving.
What size pan should I use?
A 13x9 inch baking pan is recommended for this recipe.
Should I line the baking pan with anything?
Yes, lining the pan with aluminum foil is recommended for easy clean-up.
How much oil is needed for the pesto?
Use 2 tablespoons of oil directly from the jar of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes.
Can I make the pesto without a food processor?
While a food processor creates a smooth consistency, you can finely mince the ingredients by hand for a more rustic, chunky texture.
When do I add the pesto to the chicken?
Apply half of the pesto before baking and the remaining half before the final broiling step.
What should I serve with this chicken?
This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh side salad or your favorite seasonal vegetables.
Does this recipe use fresh or dried basil?
This recipe specifically calls for 1/4 cup of packed fresh basil leaves for the best flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
How much Parmesan cheese is required?
You will need 2 1/2 tablespoons of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
How far from the heat should I place the chicken when broiling?
The pan should be placed about 6 inches away from the broiler heat source.
Should I let the chicken rest after cooking?
Yes, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven to ensure it remains juicy.
How many chicken breasts does this recipe serve?
The recipe is designed for 4 boneless chicken breasts.
Is this recipe considered Italian cuisine?
Yes, it is tagged under Italian cuisine due to the use of pesto, basil, garlic, and Parmesan.
How much garlic is used in the pesto?
The recipe calls for 1 clove of minced garlic.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Is there any added sugar in this recipe?
No, this recipe contains no added sugars.
What kind of sun-dried tomatoes should I buy?
You should look for sun-dried tomatoes that are packed in oil.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but ensure the chicken is completely thawed and patted dry before you begin the preparation.
How much black pepper is used?
The recipe suggests 1/8 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper, or more to taste.
Is this a one-pan meal?
Yes, it is categorized as a one-pan meal, which simplifies both cooking and cleanup.
Can I make the pesto in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pesto ahead of time and keep it refrigerated until you are ready to bake the chicken.