Meals With Maria

Sheet Pan Pesto Chicken Parm – A Surprisingly Delicious Twist On the Classic Dish

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pesto chicken parm on a plate with rigatoni

Why not marry two delicious Italian style sauces and bake it with chicken and cheese, am I right? Now this isn’t exactly a traditional Chicken Parmesan, since I’m not breading and frying the chicken but it still does the trick. Honestly, I’m not much for deep frying anything so, if I were to bread the chicken, I’d probably bake it, but even then, not necessary. The flavor in this pesto chicken parm is unmatchable and, bonus, it’s easy to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best things about this Pesto Chicken Parm is how straightforward it is. With just a few ingredients and a single sheet pan, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty and nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delectable Pesto Chicken Parm, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 4 small to medium chicken breasts
  • 8 tablespoons of pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup of your favorite marinara sauce
  • 1 cup of Parmesan cheese
  • 1 1/3 cups of shredded mozzarella or 4 slices of provolone cheese (whatever you have on hand)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line or spray a baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Assemble the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Cover each chicken breast with 2 tablespoons of pesto, ensuring they are well coated.
  3. Add the Sauce and Cheese: Spoon 1/4 cup of marinara sauce over each chicken breast, then sprinkle 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese on top of the sauce.
  4. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Top with More Cheese: After baking, top each chicken breast with 1/3 cup of shredded mozzarella or a slice of provolone cheese.
  6. Broil: Turn on the broiler and broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
  7. Serve: Serve your delicious Pesto Chicken Parm hot, paired with pasta or your favorite side dish.

Tips for the Best Pesto Chicken Parm

  • Homemade Pesto: If you have some extra time, try making your own pesto for an even fresher taste. A simple blend of basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil can make all the difference.
  • Marinara Sauce: Use a high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor. You can also experiment with different types of tomato sauce to find your favorite combination.
  • Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix and match cheeses. While mozzarella and provolone are classics, a bit of gouda or fontina can add a unique twist.

Why This Recipe Works

This Sheet Pan Pesto Chicken Parm is not just delicious, but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for those on a busy schedule who still want to enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal. The combination of pesto and marinara creates a unique flavor profile that’s both rich and refreshing. Plus, the one-pan approach means cleanup is a breeze, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a new favorite to your dinner rotation, give this Pesto Chicken Parm a try. It’s easy, delicious, and sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the savory flavors and the simplicity of this wonderful dish!

Let me know in the comments how your Pesto Chicken Parm turned out and if you made any tasty tweaks to the recipe. Happy cooking!

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    pesto chicken parm on a plate with rigatoni

    Sheet Pan Pesto Chicken Parm

    • Author: Maria
    • Total Time: 33 minutes
    • Yield: 4 1x
    Print Recipe

    Description

    Indulge in the delicious flavors of this easy-to-make Sheet Pan Pesto Chicken Parm. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines tender chicken breasts with vibrant pesto, rich marinara sauce, and a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella or provolone cheese. With just a few simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish ready in under 30 minutes. Serve it with pasta or your favorite side for a complete, satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Enjoy the perfect blend of savory, cheesy goodness with this hassle-free, delectable dinner option!

    Ingredients

    Scale
    • 4 small to medium chicken breasts
    • 8 tablespoons pesto (store-bought or homemade)
    • 1 cup your favorite marinara sauce
    • 1 cup Parmesan cheese
    • 1 1/3 cups shredded mozzarella or 4 slices of provolone cheese (whatever you have on hand)

    Instructions

    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Line or spray a baking sheet with cooking spray.
    • Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
    • Cover each chicken breast with 2 tablespoons of pesto.
    • Spoon 1/4 cup of marinara sauce over each chicken breast.
    • Sprinkle 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the sauce on each chicken breast.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
    • After baking, top each chicken breast with 1/3 cup of shredded mozzarella or a slice of provolone cheese.
    • Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
    • Serve hot with pasta or your favorite side dish.
    • Prep Time: 5
    • Cook Time: 28

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