I still remember the first time I tried baked chicken with pesto and spinach. It was at a cozy dinner with friends, and the aroma filled the room, making everyone’s mouth water. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant pesto, and fresh spinach was like a warm hug on a plate.
This dish has become my go-to for those busy weeknights when I want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
It’s simple yet feels a bit fancy, and it always impresses. Plus, the vibrant green of the pesto and spinach just makes it look so inviting.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
That’s it! Ready to create something awesome?
Tools And Equipment
I made sure to gather everything before I started. Here’s what worked for me:
I used a large baking dish to fit all the chicken comfortably. It ensured even cooking.
My oven mitts were a must. Safety first when dealing with hot dishes.
A sharp knife helped me cut through the cherry tomatoes easily. It made the job quick.
A cutting board was essential. I used it to prepare my ingredients, keeping my kitchen tidy.
I also grabbed a mixing bowl. Perfect for tossing spinach and pesto together.
Finally, a silicone spatula was my go-to for spreading pesto evenly over the chicken.
Having these on hand made the process smooth and easy.
Prep
Time to get things ready! Prepping is key to making this chicken dish a breeze.
Prepare The Chicken
First I grab my boneless chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. A dry surface helps everything stick better. Then I sprinkle them generously with salt and a little pepper.
Make The Pesto Sauce
I take that basil pesto and give it a quick stir in a bowl. If you like you can add a splash of olive oil to make it extra smooth and delicious.
Prepare The Spinach
I rinse the fresh spinach under cold water, shaking off the excess. Then I chop it roughly on the cutting board to spread it easily over the chicken.
Directions
Let’s get that chicken in the oven! It’s gonna be delicious. We’ll start by cooking the chicken to juicy perfection.
Cook The Chicken
I preheat my oven to 375°F. That’s just the right temperature to get a nice bake on the chicken.
I grab my large baking dish. I drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the bottom. This helps keep things from sticking.
I place the chicken breasts in the dish. Make sure they sit nice and flat. Give ’em space.
I spread about 1/4 cup of pesto over each chicken breast. A nice layer is key.
I scatter the chopped spinach over the top. Then I add the cherry tomatoes all around.
I sprinkle shreds of mozzarella cheese on everything. It melts and gets all gooey.
Into the oven it goes! I bake it for 25-30 minutes. Check that the chicken is cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
This baked chicken with pesto and spinach pairs so well with fluffy rice or buttery mashed potatoes.
I love adding a crisp green salad on the side.
A squeeze of lemon right before serving can brighten up the flavors.
Garlic bread makes a delicious partner too.
Make-Ahead Tips
Sometimes I like to prep the dish ahead of time. I marinate the chicken in pesto, then stash them in a covered container overnight. Makes the flavors richer.
Chop the spinach and tomatoes before storing them separately in airtight containers. This keeps them fresh and crispy.
You can also assemble the entire dish in the baking dish. Cover it with foil and pop it in the fridge a few hours before cooking. It makes dinnertime so easy.
Conclusion
Baked chicken with pesto and spinach has truly become a staple in my kitchen. It’s a dish that not only satisfies my taste buds but also fits seamlessly into my busy schedule.
The combination of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors makes it a go-to for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends.
I hope my experience and tips inspire you to try this delightful recipe. With its simplicity and elegance, it’s bound to impress anyone who takes a bite. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the wonderful aroma and taste of this delicious meal.
Happy cooking!
