Pesto Chicken Parmigiana is a delightful twist on the traditional Italian classic. By combining the fresh, herby flavors of pesto with the comforting, cheesy goodness of chicken parmigiana, this dish becomes a household favorite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that's both simple and a little special.
The star of the show is the chicken breasts, which are the canvas for all the delicious flavors. The all-purpose flour creates a dry surface on the chicken for the egg to adhere to. Eggs act as the glue that holds the breadcrumb mixture in place. A combination of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese gives the chicken a crispy, cheesy crust. Basil pesto introduces a fragrant, herby element, while marinara sauce adds a tangy, tomato-based richness. Mozzarella cheese provides that gooey, melty texture everyone loves. Olive oil is used for frying, adding a hint of its signature fruity flavor. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to enhance all the flavors.
Serve Pesto Chicken Parmigiana with a side of garlic butter pasta or a simple green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness. A crusty loaf of Italian bread also pairs beautifully to soak up any extra sauce and cheese.
First, preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures it's hot and ready by the time you're done preparing the chicken. Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This basic seasoning is important for bringing out the flavors.
Next, prepare your dredging station. Place the flour in one shallow dish, beat the eggs in another, and mix the breadcrumbs with the Parmesan cheese in a third. Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure every part of the chicken is covered for maximum crispiness.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it's shimmering, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook them on each side for about 4 minutes until they're beautifully golden and crispy. This step is crucial for locking in the moisture and creating a flavorful crust.
Transfer the browned chicken to a baking dish. Spread a generous layer of pesto over each piece, letting the aromatic basil work its magic. Follow this with a dollop of marinara sauce. Finally, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. This layering ensures every bite is a perfect mix of flavors.
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You're looking for the cheese to be melted and bubbly, signaling that it's ready. Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken juicy and tender when you serve it.
Share