Pesto Chicken (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
02 - 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
04 - Salt and pepper, to taste
05 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
06 - Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

→ For Homemade Pesto (if making from scratch)

07 - 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
08 - 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
09 - 2 cloves garlic
10 - 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
11 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 - Salt and pepper to taste

# Instructions:

01 - In a food processor, combine the fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped, then slowly add the olive oil while blending until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and set aside.
02 - Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Depending on the thickness of the chicken, this may take a little longer. Once the chicken is cooked, remove from the skillet and set aside.
03 - Reduce the heat to low and return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon a generous amount of pesto over each chicken breast, covering the top. Let the chicken cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the pesto and allow the flavors to meld.
04 - Serve the pesto chicken hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan and basil leaves, if desired.

# Notes:

01 - You can also grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it for a smoky flavor. Simply brush the chicken with pesto before grilling.
02 - For a creamier pesto sauce, you can mix a little heavy cream or cream cheese into the pesto before spreading it over the chicken.
03 - If you don't have pine nuts, walnuts, or even almonds can be used in the pesto.
04 - Serve this pesto chicken with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

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