One pan pesto cherry chicken has become my absolute go-to for a quick weeknight dinner, and I can’t wait for you to try it! I remember the first time I made this easy one pan pesto cherry tomatoes dish; the aroma of garlic and basil filling my kitchen was incredible, and the way the cherry tomatoes burst into a vibrant, flavorful sauce was pure magic. It’s the kind of meal that looks impressive but is secretly so simple, making it perfect for busy evenings when you still want something delicious and satisfying. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This One Pan Pesto Cherry Tomato Chicken
This sheet pan pesto cherry tomato recipe is a weeknight game-changer for so many reasons:
- Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of basil pesto, bursting cherry tomatoes, and tender chicken is simply divine.
- Minimal Cleanup: Seriously, just one pan! This makes cooking and cleanup a breeze.
- Quick to Make: You can have this delicious meal on the table in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- Healthy and Low-Carb: Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, it’s a guilt-free way to enjoy a satisfying dinner.
- Visually Appealing: The bright red tomatoes and green pesto make for a gorgeous presentation.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to your favorite vegetables or even different proteins.
- Impressive Results: It tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but it’s so simple to prepare.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This easy one pan pesto cherry tomatoes dish reheats beautifully.
Ingredients for One Pan Pesto Cherry Tomato Chicken
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making this incredibly flavorful one pan meal pesto cherry. You’ll be amazed at how few items are needed for such a delicious dish!
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – I like to pound them to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Extra virgin for the best flavor.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved – Use ripe tomatoes; they’ll burst and create a lovely sauce for this pesto chicken and cherry tomato recipe.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aromatic base.
- ½ teaspoon salt – To enhance all the other flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground is always best!
- ½ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought) – This is the star ingredient that brings all the Italian-inspired flavor.
- ¼ cup chicken broth or water – Helps create the sauce and deglazes the pan.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – A little acidity brightens everything up.
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish – Adds a pop of freshness and color.
- Shaved Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional) – For a salty, cheesy finish.
- Crushed red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional) – If you like a little heat!
How to Make One Pan Pesto Cherry Tomato Chicken
This quick one pan pesto chicken recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. Follow these simple steps for a delicious weeknight dinner that’s ready in about 30 minutes!
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First, pat your chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step for getting a beautiful golden-brown sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken breasts in the pan. Sear them for about 4–5 minutes per side until they develop a lovely golden-brown crust. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Tomatoes
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for just 30 seconds until you can smell their fragrant aroma – be careful not to burn them! Now, add the 2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll see the tomatoes start to soften and burst, releasing their sweet juices and creating the base for our delicious sauce. Gently press down on some of the tomatoes with your spoon to help them break down further.
- Step 3: Deglaze and Combine Sauce
Pour in the ¼ cup chicken broth or water. As it heats up, use your spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan – that’s where a lot of the flavor is! Once the pan is deglazed, lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the ½ cup basil pesto and 1 tablespoon lemon juice until everything is well combined. This creates the savory, herbaceous sauce that will coat the chicken and tomatoes. For more pesto-inspired dishes, check out this Lemon Chicken Orzo with Pesto.
- Step 4: Simmer and Finish Cooking
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them down into the bubbling tomato and pesto sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 5–7 minutes. You want to ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce has thickened slightly. The aroma at this stage is absolutely mouthwatering!
- Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce is just right, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness. If you like, sprinkle on some shaved Parmesan cheese and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick. This pesto chicken and cherry tomato recipe is now ready to be served!
Pro Tips for the Best One Pan Pesto Cherry Tomato Chicken
I’ve made this dish more times than I can count, and I’ve picked up a few tricks to make it absolutely perfect every time. These little tips for your sheet pan pesto cherry tomato recipe will elevate it from good to unforgettable!
- Always use good quality pesto. It’s the heart of the sauce, so a flavorful one makes a huge difference.
- Don’t skip patting the chicken dry! This is key to getting that gorgeous golden-brown sear.
- For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter or a splash of heavy cream at the very end, just before serving.
What’s the secret to perfect One Pan Pesto Cherry Tomato Chicken?
The key is building layers of flavor. First, get a great sear on the chicken. Then, let those cherry tomatoes burst and create a juicy sauce, and finally, use the broth to deglaze and capture all those delicious browned bits from the pan. This pesto chicken and cherry tomato recipe comes together beautifully. For more tips on searing meat, you can refer to Serious Eats’ guide on searing meat.
Can I make One Pan Pesto Cherry Tomato Chicken ahead of time?
You can prepare the components ahead of time for a truly quick one pan pesto chicken meal. Sear the chicken and prepare the tomato sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to eat, combine them in the skillet and simmer until the chicken is heated through. This is similar to how you might prepare components for stuffed burritos.
How do I avoid common mistakes with One Pan Pesto Cherry Tomato Chicken?
Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing chicken, or it will steam instead of brown. Also, be careful not to overcook the chicken; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Finally, use ripe cherry tomatoes for the best sweetness and burst factor in this one pan meal pesto cherry.
Best Ways to Serve One Pan Pesto Cherry Tomato Chicken
This incredibly flavorful one pan pesto cherry tomato chicken is so versatile, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a complete, satisfying meal, I love serving it over fluffy quinoa or a bed of your favorite pasta, like linguine or penne, to soak up all that delicious sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, a simple side of steamed broccoli or asparagus complements the Mediterranean flavors perfectly. This pesto chicken and cherry tomato recipe truly shines when served alongside crusty bread for dipping! You might also enjoy it with a side of homemade bread.
Nutrition Facts for One Pan Pesto Cherry Tomato Chicken
This pesto chicken and cherry tomato recipe is not only delicious but also quite nutritious. A single serving offers a good balance of macronutrients, making it a satisfying and healthy choice.
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of pesto and chicken broth.
How to Store and Reheat One Pan Pesto Cherry Tomato Chicken
Once you’ve enjoyed this delicious one pan pesto cherry tomato chicken, you’ll be happy to know it stores and reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. After cooking, allow the dish to cool completely on the counter for about an hour. This is important to prevent condensation in your storage containers. Once cooled, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, this pesto chicken and cherry tomato recipe freezes really well; portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, simply place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry. This makes enjoying leftovers a breeze!
Frequently Asked Questions About One Pan Pesto Cherry Tomato Chicken
What is the best way to cook One Pan Pesto Cherry Tomato Chicken?
The best method is the skillet approach detailed in this pesto chicken and cherry tomato recipe. Searing the chicken first ensures a beautiful crust, while simmering it in the tomato and pesto sauce locks in moisture and flavor. This one pan meal pesto cherry method is quick and results in minimal cleanup.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this One Pan Pesto Cherry Tomato Chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative for this easy one pan pesto cherry tomatoes dish. They are more forgiving and tend to stay moister. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs can take a few minutes longer to cook through completely. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How do I make this a vegetarian One Pan Pesto Cherry Tomato dish?
To make a vegetarian version of this sheet pan pesto cherry tomato recipe, simply omit the chicken. You can add hearty vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even chickpeas. Sauté them after the garlic and tomatoes, then add the pesto and broth. It makes for a wonderful vegetarian one pan pesto cherry option. For other vegetarian ideas, consider Air Fryer Halloumi.
Can I add other vegetables to this One Pan Pesto Cherry Tomato Chicken?
Yes, this one pan chicken pesto cherry tomatoes recipe is very adaptable! I often add spinach or kale during the last few minutes of simmering, letting it wilt into the sauce. Sliced zucchini or bell peppers can be added with the cherry tomatoes to soften.
Variations of One Pan Pesto Cherry Tomato Chicken You Can Try
This versatile sheet pan pesto cherry tomato recipe is fantastic as is, but it’s also a wonderful base for creative variations. Whether you’re looking for a different protein, a dietary swap, or just a new flavor profile, there’s an option for everyone. Here are a few ideas to get you inspired for your next pesto chicken and cherry tomato recipe!
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap the chicken for firm tofu or a can of drained chickpeas. Sauté them until golden, then proceed with the sauce. This creates a delicious vegetarian one pan pesto cherry meal that’s just as satisfying.
- Protein Swap: For a lighter, omega-3 rich option, try using salmon fillets instead of chicken. This one pan pesto cherry salmon variation cooks quickly; add the salmon during the last 5-7 minutes of simmering until it flakes easily.
- Pasta Lover’s Dream: If you love pasta, consider making a one pan pesto cherry tomato pasta. Cook your favorite pasta separately, then toss it with the finished pesto cherry tomato sauce and some cooked chicken or even some white beans for added protein.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, add extra crushed red pepper flakes when you add the tomatoes, or even a diced jalapeño with the garlic. This adds a wonderful spicy note to the classic one pan chicken pesto cherry tomatoes.
One Pan Pesto Cherry: 30-Minute Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and flavorful One Pan Pesto Cherry Tomato Chicken recipe perfect for weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are seared and simmered in a sauce of bursting cherry tomatoes, garlic, and basil pesto, creating a healthy, low-carb meal bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- ¼ cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Shaved Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
- Crushed red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes burst and release their juices. Gently press some tomatoes to create a chunky sauce.
- Pour in chicken broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Lower the heat to medium, then stir in basil pesto and lemon juice until combined.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, shaved Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
- To ensure even cooking, pound chicken breasts to an even thickness.
- Use ripe cherry tomatoes for the best natural sweetness.
- Do not overcook the chicken; remove from heat once it reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For optimal flavor, use high-quality pesto.
- Consider adding a splash of cream or butter at the end for extra richness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g