Pesto Chicken and Veggies Recipe

Published: May 20, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Pesto Chicken and Veggies is a breeze to whip up after a long day.
It delivers a burst of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing.
With its colorful presentation, it’s perfect for impressing friends or family at dinner parties.
The versatility allows you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand!

Sharing this dish with my family was a hit; they couldn’t get enough of the vibrant flavors in each bite!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 pieces work best for even cooking; adjust based on how many you’re feeding.
Pesto Sauce: You can either buy store-bought or whip up some homemade if you’re feeling ambitious.
Bell Peppers: Use assorted colors for visual appeal and sweetness that balances the savory chicken.
Zucchini: Slice thinly for even cooking; it adds great texture and absorbs the pesto beautifully.
Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems add juicy bursts of flavor; choose ripe ones for the best results.
Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances flavors; opt for extra virgin for that robust taste.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the other flavors in the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly. Slice bell peppers into strips and zucchini into rounds. Halve cherry tomatoes so they pop with flavor during cooking.

Season the Chicken

In a bowl, sprinkle salt and pepper over chicken breasts generously. Rub them down like you’re giving them a spa day; this helps lock in flavor!

Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot (time to sizzle), add the chicken breasts. Cook until golden brown on both sides—about 5-7 minutes each side.

Add Vegetables

Toss in those colorful bell peppers, zucchini slices, and halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken. Stir gently until they start to soften—around 5 minutes should do it!

Pesto Time!

Spoon generous dollops of pesto sauce over everything in the skillet. Use tongs or spatula to mix well so every morsel gets coated—pasta lovers would be proud!

Cook Until Done!

Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything simmer together for another 10 minutes. Check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The veggies should be tender yet still vibrant!

And there you have it! Serve hot on plates or even on top of rice or pasta if you’re feeling extra hungry! This Pesto Chicken and Veggies will surely become your new go-to meal for busy weeknights or when friends come over unexpectedly!

You Must Know

The secret to a fantastic Pesto Chicken and Veggies lies in fresh ingredients.
Use homemade pesto for depth of flavor.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; it helps everything cook evenly.
With vibrant colors and enticing aromas, this dish is a feast for both the eyes and the stomach.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then toss in your veggies, adding pesto towards the end for optimal flavor infusion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out veggies based on what’s in season or add a sprinkle of cheese for that extra creaminess.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave to avoid drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
Instead of traditional pasta, try zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Fresh basil leaves added at the end brighten up the dish beautifully.

Cooking this Pesto Chicken and Veggies recipe always brings back memories of family dinners where everyone eagerly dug in, raving about how delicious it was!

FAQ

Can I use store-bought pesto for my Pesto Chicken and Veggies?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is convenient and still adds great flavor.

What vegetables work best with this recipe?

Bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes bring color and taste to your dish.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your meal an extra kick!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card