Tomato Pesto Parchment-baked Chicken Recipe

Hey there, food lovers! If you’re looking for a delicious and easy dinner idea, you’ve hit the jackpot with this Tomato Pesto Parchment-Baked Chicken recipe. It’s packed with flavor, super simple to make, and the best part? It’s all done in one neat little package! Let’s dive into the juicy details.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

Before we get cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this tasty dish:

  • Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (make sure they’re halal!)
  • Tomato Pesto: 1 cup (store-bought or homemade)
  • Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
  • Fresh Basil: A handful, chopped
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste
  • Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated (optional)
  • Parchment Paper: For baking

Kitchen Tools

You won’t need much for this recipe, but here’s a quick list of what you’ll want to have on hand:

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Why Parchment Baking?

You might be wondering, “Why use parchment paper?” Great question! Baking chicken in parchment paper keeps it juicy and tender. Plus, it makes cleanup a breeze. No one wants to scrub a pan after a long day, right?

How to Make Tomato Pesto Parchment-baked Chicken

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking chicken to juicy perfection.

Step 2: Prepare the Parchment

Cut a large piece of parchment paper—about 12×16 inches should do the trick. Fold it in half, then open it back up. This will help you know where to place your chicken and toppings.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, drizzle the chicken breasts with olive oil, and sprinkle them with salt and pepper. Give them a good rub to make sure they’re evenly coated. This little step adds a ton of flavor!

Step 4: Assemble the Ingredients

Now, let’s get to the fun part! Place one chicken breast on one side of the parchment paper. Spread a generous amount of tomato pesto over the top. Don’t be shy—this is where the flavor comes from!

Next, add a handful of halved cherry tomatoes and sprinkle some fresh basil on top. If you’re feeling cheesy, go ahead and add some grated Parmesan cheese too.

Step 5: Fold and Seal

Now, fold the parchment paper over the chicken to create a pocket. Start at one end and make small folds along the edge to seal it tightly. This keeps all the delicious juices inside while it bakes.

Step 6: Bake It Up

Place the parchment packet on a baking sheet and pop it in the oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once it’s done, carefully open the parchment (watch out for steam!) and serve the chicken right in the packet for a fun presentation. You can pair it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

  • Make It Your Own: Feel free to swap out the cherry tomatoes for other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
  • Meal Prep: This recipe is great for meal prep! You can make a few packets ahead of time and store them in the fridge for quick dinners during the week.
  • Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, they make a fantastic lunch the next day. Just slice the chicken and toss it in a salad or wrap.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time. Frozen chicken may take a bit longer to cook through, so check the internal temperature to be safe.

What if I don’t have parchment paper?

If you don’t have parchment paper, you can use aluminum foil instead. Just make sure to grease it lightly to prevent sticking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the packets in advance and store them in the fridge. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free, making this a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

What can I serve with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides.

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