Basil Pesto Chicken

By: Admin      Date: 04-Mar 2022       Reading Time: 3 Mins

Basil Pesto Chicken

Basil Pesto Chicken is a delicious and aromatic dish where tender chicken strips are tossed in a flavorful basil pesto sauce. This dish is a perfect blend of fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil, making it a fragrant, savory meal that’s quick and easy to prepare.

For a Serving Size of Two:

Ingredients:

  • 250 grams boneless chicken breast, cut into strips
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish
  • 50 grams fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp pine nuts (or walnuts)
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Procedure:

  1. Make the Pesto (if homemade): In a blender or food processor, blend basil leaves, olive oil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chicken strips, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
  3. Add Pesto: Once the chicken is cooked, remove from heat and stir in the basil pesto. Toss the chicken until evenly coated in the pesto sauce.
  4. Finish and Serve: Drizzle with lemon juice and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot with a side of salad, rice, or pasta.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Basil Pesto Chicken offers a healthy balance of lean protein and heart-healthy fats. Chicken breast is a great source of high-quality protein, necessary for muscle repair and maintaining overall body functions.
  • The basil pesto adds fresh basil, which is rich in antioxidants and vitamins like vitamin K and A. Olive oil, a key ingredient in pesto, is a source of monounsaturated fats, which promote heart health and reduce inflammation. Garlic offers immune-boosting properties, while the pine nuts and Parmesan contribute additional vitamins and minerals, including calcium for bone health.

Nutritional Information:

  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32.3 g
  • Fat: 5.8 g

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recommended For You