This Keto Pesto Chicken recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings the vibrant taste of homemade pesto into a juicy, tender chicken dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or a quick weekend meal, this recipe features succulent chicken breasts coated in a rich and aromatic basil pesto sauce. It’s not only low in carbs, making it an ideal fit for keto dieters, but it also delivers a satisfying meal that everyone at the table will love.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will fall head over heels for this keto pesto chicken recipe because it’s incredibly flavorful, thanks to the fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan in the pesto. It’s quick and easy to prepare, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish, which makes it a lifesaver for those hectic evenings. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to stick to your keto diet without sacrificing taste—each bite is packed with healthy fats and protein, keeping you full and satisfied.
Tips and Tricks
To make this recipe even easier, consider using store-bought pesto to save time. If you prefer homemade, make a big batch and freeze it in ice cube trays for easy portioning. For more flavor, marinate the chicken in the pesto for an hour or overnight. You can also add some crushed red pepper flakes to the pesto for a spicy kick or mix in some sun-dried tomatoes for added depth. Remember to sear the chicken on high heat for a lovely golden crust before finishing it in the oven for that perfect juicy interior.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep this dish ahead of time by seasoning the chicken and marinating it in pesto the night before. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The marinated chicken will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also prepare the pesto ahead of time; it keeps well in the fridge for about a week or can be frozen for up to three months.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to switch up the protein by using turkey, pork, or even shrimp instead of chicken. For a vegetarian option, try using zucchini noodles or cauliflower steaks topped with the pesto. You can also experiment with different nuts in the pesto—try walnuts or pecans instead of pine nuts for a different flavor profile.
How to Serve
Serve the keto pesto chicken on a bed of sautéed spinach or alongside roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus. Drizzle a little extra pesto on top for presentation, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or grated Parmesan for added flair. A lemon wedge on the side not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
For a drink pairing, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements the herby flavors of the pesto beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a twist of lemon is refreshing. As for side dishes, consider a crisp Caesar salad or a creamy avocado cucumber salad to keep within the keto theme. For dessert, a small serving of keto-friendly chocolate mousse can be a sweet finish to the meal.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze the chicken, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through, taking care not to overcook it.
Equipment Needed
For this recipe, you will need a large skillet for searing the chicken, an oven-safe dish for finishing it in the oven, and a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. If you prefer, you can also use a grill or an air fryer for cooking the chicken.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute nutritional yeast for the Parmesan cheese in the pesto and use a dairy-free pesto alternative. If you need a nut-free version, replace the pine nuts with sunflower seeds in the pesto. For a vegan adaptation, swap the chicken for grilled tofu or tempeh and ensure your pesto is made with vegan ingredients.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, use fresh basil from the garden for the pesto, and in the winter, consider using spinach or kale to keep the dish vibrant and healthy. You can also add seasonal vegetables to the side, such as roasted root vegetables in the fall or grilled zucchini in the summer.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use store-bought pesto? Yes, store-bought pesto can save time and still taste delicious.
- What can I substitute for chicken? You can use turkey, pork, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- How long does it take to cook? The total time for this recipe is about 30 minutes.
- Can I prepare this in advance? Yes, marinated chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking.
How To Make keto pesto chicken recipe
Keto Pesto Chicken
This Keto Pesto Chicken recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings the vibrant taste of homemade pesto into a juicy, tender chicken dish.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pulse until finely chopped.
- With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, sear the chicken breasts for about 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and spread a generous amount of pesto over each chicken breast.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with additional pesto, if desired, and lemon wedges on the side.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 528Total Fat 39gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 30gCholesterol 107mgSodium 277mgCarbohydrates 4gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 41g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This keto pesto chicken recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a breeze to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish promises to deliver on flavor and satisfaction. So gather your ingredients, and let the aromatic essence of fresh basil transform your chicken into a delightful meal that will quickly become a family favorite! Enjoy every bite while staying true to your keto lifestyle!