Description
Savory pesto chicken thighs deliver a Mediterranean flavor explosion that will delight dinner guests. Crisp herb-coated chicken emerges from the oven golden and irresistible, promising a memorable meal packed with Italian-inspired zest.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4–6 bone-in chicken thighs
Cheese and Coating:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
Sauce and Oil:
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Elevate oven temperature to a robust 425F (220C), ensuring optimal heat for crispy exterior.
- Prepare a spacious baking vessel with a light coating of nonstick spray to prevent adherence.
- Meticulously blot chicken thighs using paper towels to remove excess moisture, then apply a delicate seasoning of salt and pepper.
- Lavishly drench each thigh with vibrant pesto, creating a rich herbal coating.
- Craft a crunchy topping by amalgamating breadcrumbs, finely grated Parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Firmly press the herbed mixture onto the pesto-covered surface, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Transfer the prepared thighs to the preheated baking dish, positioning them with slight separation.
- Roast in the blazing oven for 30-35 minutes, monitoring until the exterior transforms to a golden-brown hue and internal temperature reaches a safe 165F (74C).
- Remove from oven and allow a brief resting period of 3-5 minutes to seal in succulent juices before serving.
Notes
- Ensure chicken thighs are completely dry before coating to achieve maximum crispiness and help breadcrumb mixture adhere perfectly.
- Use homemade or high-quality store-bought pesto for richer, more vibrant flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Consider using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts like almonds for a low-carb or paleo-friendly alternative without sacrificing crunch.
- For extra moisture, briefly marinate chicken thighs in pesto for 15-30 minutes before baking to enhance flavor penetration and tenderness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 46
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg