Pesto Chicken & Cherry Tomato Sheet Pan Delight

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- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade) - 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons - 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced into strips - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves for garnish This recipe focuses on fresh, simple ingredients. The chicken thighs bring a juicy texture. Cherry tomatoes add a sweet burst. You can use store-bought or homemade pesto, which adds a lot of flavor. For vegetables, I like zucchini and bell peppers. They roast well and soak up flavors. Olive oil adds richness. Garlic powder gives a nice kick. You can adjust salt and pepper to your taste. Finally, fresh basil leaves make a lovely garnish. They add a pop of color and fresh taste. With these ingredients, you create a colorful and tasty meal. It's all about balance and flavor in every bite. - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). - Take your chicken thighs and coat them with basil pesto. Make sure every piece is covered well. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes. This helps the chicken soak up flavor. - Grab a large sheet pan and lay out your halved cherry tomatoes, sliced zucchini, and bell pepper strips. - Drizzle the veggies with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper on top. Mix the veggies together until they are all coated. - Make room in the center of the pan. Place the marinated chicken thighs in that space. - Spoon the remaining basil pesto over the chicken. This adds even more flavor. - Slide the sheet pan into your preheated oven. Roast everything for 25-30 minutes. Check if the chicken is done. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The veggies should be tender and slightly caramelized. To keep your chicken juicy, marinating is key. I recommend marinating the chicken thighs for at least 10 minutes. This short time allows the meat to soak in the flavors from the pesto. After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. Resting helps the juices stay inside the chicken. This way, every bite stays moist and tasty. Caramelizing vegetables can add great taste. To achieve this, make sure to spread them evenly on the sheet pan. This helps them cook well and brown nicely. If you want crispier vegetables, you can adjust the cooking time. Try roasting them for a few extra minutes. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning. For a beautiful serving, use a large platter. Arrange the roasted chicken and vegetables nicely. Drizzle any leftover pesto from the pan over the top. This adds color and flavor. Finish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of green. This simple touch makes your dish look more appealing. {{image_4}} You can change the protein in this dish. Instead of chicken thighs, try chicken breast or tofu. Both options work well with the pesto. Tofu absorbs flavors nicely, making it a great choice for plant-based diets. Feel free to swap out vegetables too. Asparagus or carrots can replace zucchini and bell peppers. These veggies will add different tastes and textures. Mixing vegetables keeps your meal fresh and exciting. To make this dish your own, try different pesto flavors. Sun-dried tomato pesto adds a rich, tangy taste. Spinach pesto gives a fresh, vibrant twist. These variations can change the entire dish. Adding cheese can also enhance the creaminess of the meal. Try mozzarella or goat cheese for a delightful touch. Just sprinkle it over the chicken before roasting. The melted cheese adds a wonderful flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, this dish is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your pesto doesn’t contain gluten. Most store-bought brands are safe, but always check the label. For a vegetarian adaptation, swap the chicken for roasted chickpeas. They offer protein and fiber, making your meal filling. You can also use a plant-based pesto to keep it vegetarian-friendly. To keep your Pesto Chicken and Cherry Tomato Sheet Pan fresh, store leftovers in the fridge. Place the chicken and veggies in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and avoids any funky smells. Use a container that fits well in your fridge. Glass containers work great since they do not absorb smells. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them in either the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken and veggies on a baking sheet. Cover them with foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. If you use a microwave, place the chicken and veggies on a microwave-safe plate. Heat them on medium power for about 2-3 minutes. This method may not keep the chicken as juicy, so be cautious. You can freeze your Pesto Chicken and Cherry Tomato Sheet Pan for later. To freeze, let the dish cool completely first. Then, place the chicken and veggies in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space for expansion, as food can swell when frozen. Seal the container tightly and label it with the date. When you're ready to eat, thaw the dish in the fridge overnight. After thawing, you can reheat it following the same oven or microwave instructions. Enjoy your meal without a hassle! Marinating the chicken for about 10 minutes works well. This short time helps the chicken soak up the flavors from the pesto. If you want more flavor, you can marinate longer, even up to an hour. Just remember, too long can make it mushy. Yes, you can use any pesto you like! Try sun-dried tomato pesto for a sweet twist. Spinach pesto adds a fresh green taste. You can even make your own pesto using nuts and herbs you love. Mix it up and find your favorite flavor! If you don't have a sheet pan, you can use any oven-safe dish. A baking dish or cast-iron skillet works great. Just make sure it’s large enough for the chicken and veggies. You can also grill everything if you have a grill. Just keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it cooks well. This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a tasty meal. You learned how to prepare, cook, and store juicy chicken with colorful vegetables. I shared tips to ensure your chicken stays moist and your veggies cook perfectly. Feel free to explore variations with different proteins or flavors. Don't forget to enjoy your meal's vibrant look before serving. With these steps and ideas, you can make a dish that impresses everyone. Try it out!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? Try my Pesto Chicken & Cherry Tomato Sheet Pan Delight! This one-pan meal combines juicy chicken thighs, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and fresh veggies, all drizzled with rich basil pesto. Simple to make and packed with flavor, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Join me as we explore how to whip up this delightful feast in just a few easy steps!

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

Additional Vegetables

– 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons

– 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced into strips

Seasoning and Garnish

– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

This recipe focuses on fresh, simple ingredients. The chicken thighs bring a juicy texture. Cherry tomatoes add a sweet burst. You can use store-bought or homemade pesto, which adds a lot of flavor.

For vegetables, I like zucchini and bell peppers. They roast well and soak up flavors. Olive oil adds richness. Garlic powder gives a nice kick. You can adjust salt and pepper to your taste. Finally, fresh basil leaves make a lovely garnish. They add a pop of color and fresh taste.

With these ingredients, you create a colorful and tasty meal. It’s all about balance and flavor in every bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Oven and Chicken

– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

– Take your chicken thighs and coat them with basil pesto. Make sure every piece is covered well. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes. This helps the chicken soak up flavor.

Preparing the Sheet Pan

– Grab a large sheet pan and lay out your halved cherry tomatoes, sliced zucchini, and bell pepper strips.

– Drizzle the veggies with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper on top. Mix the veggies together until they are all coated.

Roasting the Dish

– Make room in the center of the pan. Place the marinated chicken thighs in that space.

– Spoon the remaining basil pesto over the chicken. This adds even more flavor.

– Slide the sheet pan into your preheated oven. Roast everything for 25-30 minutes. Check if the chicken is done. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The veggies should be tender and slightly caramelized.

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring Juicy Chicken

To keep your chicken juicy, marinating is key. I recommend marinating the chicken thighs for at least 10 minutes. This short time allows the meat to soak in the flavors from the pesto. After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. Resting helps the juices stay inside the chicken. This way, every bite stays moist and tasty.

Vegetables Cooking Perfectly

Caramelizing vegetables can add great taste. To achieve this, make sure to spread them evenly on the sheet pan. This helps them cook well and brown nicely. If you want crispier vegetables, you can adjust the cooking time. Try roasting them for a few extra minutes. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Presentation Ideas

For a beautiful serving, use a large platter. Arrange the roasted chicken and vegetables nicely. Drizzle any leftover pesto from the pan over the top. This adds color and flavor. Finish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of green. This simple touch makes your dish look more appealing.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can change the protein in this dish. Instead of chicken thighs, try chicken breast or tofu. Both options work well with the pesto. Tofu absorbs flavors nicely, making it a great choice for plant-based diets.

Feel free to swap out vegetables too. Asparagus or carrots can replace zucchini and bell peppers. These veggies will add different tastes and textures. Mixing vegetables keeps your meal fresh and exciting.

Flavor Enhancements

To make this dish your own, try different pesto flavors. Sun-dried tomato pesto adds a rich, tangy taste. Spinach pesto gives a fresh, vibrant twist. These variations can change the entire dish.

Adding cheese can also enhance the creaminess of the meal. Try mozzarella or goat cheese for a delightful touch. Just sprinkle it over the chicken before roasting. The melted cheese adds a wonderful flavor.

Adaptations for Special Diets

If you need a gluten-free option, this dish is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your pesto doesn’t contain gluten. Most store-bought brands are safe, but always check the label.

For a vegetarian adaptation, swap the chicken for roasted chickpeas. They offer protein and fiber, making your meal filling. You can also use a plant-based pesto to keep it vegetarian-friendly.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Pesto Chicken and Cherry Tomato Sheet Pan fresh, store leftovers in the fridge. Place the chicken and veggies in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and avoids any funky smells. Use a container that fits well in your fridge. Glass containers work great since they do not absorb smells.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them in either the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken and veggies on a baking sheet. Cover them with foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.

If you use a microwave, place the chicken and veggies on a microwave-safe plate. Heat them on medium power for about 2-3 minutes. This method may not keep the chicken as juicy, so be cautious.

Freezing Options

You can freeze your Pesto Chicken and Cherry Tomato Sheet Pan for later. To freeze, let the dish cool completely first. Then, place the chicken and veggies in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space for expansion, as food can swell when frozen. Seal the container tightly and label it with the date.

When you’re ready to eat, thaw the dish in the fridge overnight. After thawing, you can reheat it following the same oven or microwave instructions. Enjoy your meal without a hassle!

FAQs

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinating the chicken for about 10 minutes works well. This short time helps the chicken soak up the flavors from the pesto. If you want more flavor, you can marinate longer, even up to an hour. Just remember, too long can make it mushy.

Can I use a different type of pesto?

Yes, you can use any pesto you like! Try sun-dried tomato pesto for a sweet twist. Spinach pesto adds a fresh green taste. You can even make your own pesto using nuts and herbs you love. Mix it up and find your favorite flavor!

What if I don’t have a sheet pan?

If you don’t have a sheet pan, you can use any oven-safe dish. A baking dish or cast-iron skillet works great. Just make sure it’s large enough for the chicken and veggies. You can also grill everything if you have a grill. Just keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it cooks well.

This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a tasty meal. You learned how to prepare, cook, and store juicy chicken with colorful vegetables. I shared tips to ensure your chicken stays moist and your veggies cook perfectly. Feel free to explore variations with different proteins or flavors. Don’t forget to enjoy your meal’s vibrant look before serving. With these steps and ideas, you can make a dish that impresses everyone. Try it out!

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade) - 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons - 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced into strips - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves for garnish This recipe focuses on fresh, simple ingredients. The chicken thighs bring a juicy texture. Cherry tomatoes add a sweet burst. You can use store-bought or homemade pesto, which adds a lot of flavor. For vegetables, I like zucchini and bell peppers. They roast well and soak up flavors. Olive oil adds richness. Garlic powder gives a nice kick. You can adjust salt and pepper to your taste. Finally, fresh basil leaves make a lovely garnish. They add a pop of color and fresh taste. With these ingredients, you create a colorful and tasty meal. It's all about balance and flavor in every bite. - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). - Take your chicken thighs and coat them with basil pesto. Make sure every piece is covered well. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes. This helps the chicken soak up flavor. - Grab a large sheet pan and lay out your halved cherry tomatoes, sliced zucchini, and bell pepper strips. - Drizzle the veggies with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper on top. Mix the veggies together until they are all coated. - Make room in the center of the pan. Place the marinated chicken thighs in that space. - Spoon the remaining basil pesto over the chicken. This adds even more flavor. - Slide the sheet pan into your preheated oven. Roast everything for 25-30 minutes. Check if the chicken is done. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The veggies should be tender and slightly caramelized. To keep your chicken juicy, marinating is key. I recommend marinating the chicken thighs for at least 10 minutes. This short time allows the meat to soak in the flavors from the pesto. After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. Resting helps the juices stay inside the chicken. This way, every bite stays moist and tasty. Caramelizing vegetables can add great taste. To achieve this, make sure to spread them evenly on the sheet pan. This helps them cook well and brown nicely. If you want crispier vegetables, you can adjust the cooking time. Try roasting them for a few extra minutes. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning. For a beautiful serving, use a large platter. Arrange the roasted chicken and vegetables nicely. Drizzle any leftover pesto from the pan over the top. This adds color and flavor. Finish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of green. This simple touch makes your dish look more appealing. {{image_4}} You can change the protein in this dish. Instead of chicken thighs, try chicken breast or tofu. Both options work well with the pesto. Tofu absorbs flavors nicely, making it a great choice for plant-based diets. Feel free to swap out vegetables too. Asparagus or carrots can replace zucchini and bell peppers. These veggies will add different tastes and textures. Mixing vegetables keeps your meal fresh and exciting. To make this dish your own, try different pesto flavors. Sun-dried tomato pesto adds a rich, tangy taste. Spinach pesto gives a fresh, vibrant twist. These variations can change the entire dish. Adding cheese can also enhance the creaminess of the meal. Try mozzarella or goat cheese for a delightful touch. Just sprinkle it over the chicken before roasting. The melted cheese adds a wonderful flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, this dish is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your pesto doesn’t contain gluten. Most store-bought brands are safe, but always check the label. For a vegetarian adaptation, swap the chicken for roasted chickpeas. They offer protein and fiber, making your meal filling. You can also use a plant-based pesto to keep it vegetarian-friendly. To keep your Pesto Chicken and Cherry Tomato Sheet Pan fresh, store leftovers in the fridge. Place the chicken and veggies in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and avoids any funky smells. Use a container that fits well in your fridge. Glass containers work great since they do not absorb smells. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them in either the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken and veggies on a baking sheet. Cover them with foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. If you use a microwave, place the chicken and veggies on a microwave-safe plate. Heat them on medium power for about 2-3 minutes. This method may not keep the chicken as juicy, so be cautious. You can freeze your Pesto Chicken and Cherry Tomato Sheet Pan for later. To freeze, let the dish cool completely first. Then, place the chicken and veggies in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space for expansion, as food can swell when frozen. Seal the container tightly and label it with the date. When you're ready to eat, thaw the dish in the fridge overnight. After thawing, you can reheat it following the same oven or microwave instructions. Enjoy your meal without a hassle! Marinating the chicken for about 10 minutes works well. This short time helps the chicken soak up the flavors from the pesto. If you want more flavor, you can marinate longer, even up to an hour. Just remember, too long can make it mushy. Yes, you can use any pesto you like! Try sun-dried tomato pesto for a sweet twist. Spinach pesto adds a fresh green taste. You can even make your own pesto using nuts and herbs you love. Mix it up and find your favorite flavor! If you don't have a sheet pan, you can use any oven-safe dish. A baking dish or cast-iron skillet works great. Just make sure it’s large enough for the chicken and veggies. You can also grill everything if you have a grill. Just keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it cooks well. This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a tasty meal. You learned how to prepare, cook, and store juicy chicken with colorful vegetables. I shared tips to ensure your chicken stays moist and your veggies cook perfectly. Feel free to explore variations with different proteins or flavors. Don't forget to enjoy your meal's vibrant look before serving. With these steps and ideas, you can make a dish that impresses everyone. Try it out!

Pesto Chicken & Cherry Tomato Sheet Pan

Discover the mouthwatering Pesto Chicken & Cherry Tomato Delight recipe that's perfect for busy weeknights! With tender chicken thighs roasted alongside zesty cherry tomatoes and vibrant veggies, this dish is a flavorful feast. Quick to prepare and ready in just 40 minutes, it’s sure to impress your family. Click through to explore this easy recipe and make mealtime memorable!
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Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced into strips

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting.

    In a large mixing bowl, take the chicken thighs and add half of the basil pesto. Use your hands or a spatula to ensure each chicken piece is thoroughly coated in the pesto. Let the chicken marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

      While the chicken is marinating, place a large sheet pan on the counter. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced zucchini, and bell pepper strips onto the pan. Drizzle with the olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss all the vegetables together until they are evenly coated in the oil and seasonings.

        Make a space in the center of the sheet pan and carefully lay the marinated chicken thighs within that area.

          For an extra burst of flavor, spoon the remaining basil pesto over the top of the chicken thighs.

            Transfer the sheet pan to the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the vegetables are tender with a slight caramelization.

              Once cooked, remove the sheet pan from the oven and allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps keep the chicken juicy.

                Before serving, garnish your delightful creation with freshly picked basil leaves for a fresh finish.

                  Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 40 min | Servings: 4

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the roasted chicken and vegetables on a large platter, drizzling any leftover pesto from the pan over the dish for a vibrant, appetizing look. Add a sprig of fresh basil on top for a pop of color.

                      WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?