Are you tired of the same old chicken dishes? Looking for a new and exciting recipe to add to your collection? Look no further! In this article, we will be sharing a delicious chicken and veggie bake recipe with a pesto surprise that will surely become a new family favorite. Packed with flavors and nutrients, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also a wholesome meal that will satisfy everyone’s taste buds. So, let’s get started!.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this mouthwatering chicken and veggie bake:.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 large zucchinis, sliced
2 red bell peppers, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup pesto sauce
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare the chicken and veggie bake:.

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the chicken and veggies cook evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the chicken breasts

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This will help the chicken cook faster and more evenly. Sprinkle both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Step 3: Arrange the veggies

In a large baking dish, toss the sliced zucchinis, red bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ensure that the veggies are evenly coated with the oil and seasoning.

Step 4: Create the pesto surprise

Using a small spoon, make a small well in each chicken breast. Fill each well with about 1 tablespoon of pesto sauce. This will create a pesto surprise in every bite, adding a burst of flavor to the dish.

Step 5: Bake the chicken and veggies

Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the arranged veggies in the baking dish. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over each chicken breast. This will create a cheesy and crispy topping that complements the flavors of the dish.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy!

Once the chicken and veggies are cooked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven. Serve the chicken and veggie bake hot, straight from the baking dish. You can pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread to complete the meal.

Enjoy the flavorful combination of moist chicken, tender veggies, and the surprise pesto filling in every bite.

Tips and Variations

– If you prefer a different protein, you can substitute the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even salmon fillets for a seafood twist.
– For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and double the amount of veggies.

You can also add some cubed tofu for added protein.
– Feel free to customize the pesto sauce by using different herbs or adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or pine nuts.
– Experiment with different types of cheese for the topping, such as mozzarella or feta, to create unique flavor profiles.
– Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the dish just before serving will add a refreshing tang to cut through the richness of the pesto and cheese.
– Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed for lunch the next day. Simply reheat in the oven until warmed through.
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Conclusion

This chicken and veggie bake with a pesto surprise is a perfect dish for those looking to elevate their regular weeknight meals. With its simple preparation and delicious flavors, it’s a recipe that will become a go-to in your kitchen.

So, gather the ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful and wholesome meal. Enjoy!.