Quick Lemon Pesto Chicken (Print Version)

A vibrant dish featuring pesto-marinated chicken and lemon-kissed roasted vegetables.

# What You'll Need:

→ Chicken

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 lbs)
02 - 3 tablespoons basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
03 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
04 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
05 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Vegetables

08 - 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
09 - 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
10 - 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
11 - 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
12 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
13 - 1 cup broccoli florets
14 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
15 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
16 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
17 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Garnish (optional)

18 - Fresh basil leaves
19 - Extra lemon wedges

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or foil.
02 - Whisk pesto, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Add chicken breasts and toss to coat evenly. Set aside to marinate while preparing vegetables.
03 - Combine zucchini, red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, oregano, salt, and black pepper; toss until everything is evenly coated.
04 - Spread vegetables evenly on the prepared sheet pan. Nestle the marinated chicken breasts among the vegetables.
05 - Roast for 22 to 25 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and vegetables are tender with golden edges.
06 - Remove from oven. Let chicken rest for 3 minutes before slicing, if desired.
07 - Top with fresh basil leaves and extra lemon wedges before serving.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Colorful, nutrient-packed meal ready in 40 minutes
  • Minimal cleanup from one pan, perfect for busy evenings
02 -
  • If using chicken thighs instead of breasts, increase roasting time by 5 minutes
  • Check pesto label for allergens like nuts, dairy, or egg
03 -
  • For even cooking, slice veggies uniformly so they roast at the same rate
  • Let your chicken marinate up to 30 minutes for richer flavor if you have time
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