This one-pan Italian Chicken Skillet with Pesto is a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner party. Juicy chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection, nestled alongside tender vegetables, and finished with a luscious homemade basil pesto. The combination of fresh ingredients and zesty Italian flavors makes this dish a showstopper that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Plus, with minimal cleanup, you’ll have more time to savor your meal and less time spent in the kitchen!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Combine and Add Pesto:
- Reduce the heat to low and return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the vegetables. Spoon the basil pesto over the chicken and vegetables, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Serve:
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the pesto to warm and coat the ingredients. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Serve with crusty bread, pasta, or rice to soak up the delicious pesto sauce.
