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Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs

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A simple yet flavorful weeknight dinner featuring juicy chicken thighs, zesty pesto, and crunchy breadcrumbs.

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

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

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

Serve with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or your favorite side dish. Drizzle with balsamic reduction for extra flavor.

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

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 thigh
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg