Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs

why make this recipe

Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs are a delicious and easy dinner option. They’re juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, making them a favorite for families. The pesto adds a burst of flavor, and the breadcrumbs give a delightful crunch. This recipe is simple to prepare and sure to impress anyone at the dinner table!

how to make Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs (skin-on)
• 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
3. In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until evenly combined.
4. Spread pesto sauce generously over each chicken thigh.
5. Press each pesto-covered thigh into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
6. Arrange the coated chicken in the baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and they’re golden brown.

how to serve Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs

Serve Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs hot from the oven. They go great with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. You can also drizzle extra pesto on top for added flavor.

how to store Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs

To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can use the oven or microwave. For best results, reheat in the oven to keep the crunchiness.

tips to make Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs

• Make sure to dry the chicken thighs well before seasoning. This helps the skin become crispy.
• Don’t skip the olive oil in the breadcrumb mixture; it adds extra crunch and flavor.
• If you like more herbs, consider adding some Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mix for a kick of flavor.

variation

You can easily change things up by using different types of pesto, such as sun-dried tomato or spinach pesto. Additionally, boneless chicken thighs or chicken breasts can be used if you prefer.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work fine, but the cooking time may be shorter. Check for doneness around the 25-30 minute mark.

2. Can I use homemade pesto?
Absolutely! Homemade pesto can bring a fresh taste and you can customize it to your liking.

3. What should I do if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture won’t be as crunchy. You can also crush some crackers or cereal for a similar effect.

Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs

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Juicy and crispy chicken thighs coated with pesto and crunchy breadcrumbs, perfect for an easy and delicious family dinner.

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

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• 4 bone-in chicken thighs (skin-on)
• 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
3. In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until evenly combined.
4. Spread pesto sauce generously over each chicken thigh.
5. Press each pesto-covered thigh into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
6. Arrange the coated chicken in the baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and they’re golden brown.

Notes

Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

• Author: nevaeh-hall
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 90mg