Hey there, Lykkers! Craving a dish that’s quick, delicious, and guaranteed to impress? These Pesto Baked Chicken Thighs are about to become your go-to! With just simple ingredients, you’ll whip up golden, flavorful chicken in a mere 20 minutes.


The pesto brings a punch of garlicky herb goodness, while a hint of spice and a crispy exterior seal the deal. Perfect for pairing with anything from a crisp salad to a cozy pasta, this recipe is as versatile as it is tasty. Let’s dive into this flavor-packed adventure!


Detailed Information


Chicken thighs are the star here—juicy, tender, and nearly impossible to dry out, they’re a forgiving canvas for bold flavors. The pesto, whether store-bought or homemade, infuses every bite with basil, garlic, and a nutty richness. A sprinkle of Italian herbs and a dash of red pepper flakes add layers of savoriness and a gentle kick. This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be dairy-free with the right pesto, making it a win for all kinds of eaters. Ready to cook? Let’s break it down!


Ingredients


Here’s what you’ll need to create this chicken masterpiece:


4 skinless chicken thighs – Roughly 6 oz. each, about 1 ½ lbs total. Opt for organic, pasture-raised like Bell & Evans (~$10-$12 per pack) for top-notch taste.


1 tsp garlic powder – A savory foundation.


2 tsp dried Italian herb blend


1/4 tsp sea salt – Brings out every flavor.


1/2 tsp black pepper – Freshly cracked for zing.


1/2 tsp red pepper flakes – Skip or cut back if you prefer mild.


3-4 Tbsp basil pesto – Go for 3 Tbsp with store-bought (try Gotham Greens Vegan Pesto, ~$5) or 4 Tbsp if homemade for extra oomph.


Quick Tip: Using skin-on thighs? Drop the oil to 1 tsp—the skin has it you covered!


Preparation


Let’s get that chicken primed for greatness:


Preheat the Oven


Crank it to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 10-12 inch cast iron skillet—or any oven-safe skillet will do.


Season Up


In a bowl, toss the thighs with garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and pesto.


Flavor Boost


Let the seasoned chicken sit for 10 minutes if you can—it’ll soak up all that goodness!


Cooking


Now, let’s crisp it up and bake it to perfection:


Sear It


Heat your skillet over medium-high. Add the olive oil, wait 1 minute, then lay the thighs in (skin side down if applicable). Sear for 3-4 minutes until golden, then flip and sear 2-3 minutes more.


Bake It


Slide the skillet into the oven (grab an oven mitt!). Bake 5-10 minutes, until the internal temp hits 170°F (76°C)—use a meat thermometer in the thickest part.


Rest It


Pull it out and let the chicken rest in the skillet for 5 minutes. This locks in the juiciness!


Plan B: No skillet? Bake the seasoned thighs on an oiled, lined baking sheet at 425°F (218°C) for 20-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until they reach 170°F. Less crispy, still amazing!


Serving Suggestions


This chicken plays well with others—try these pairings:


Veggie Vibes: Roast some asparagus, eggplant, or potatoes alongside for a filling meal.


Pasta Party: Serve with pesto pasta or a garlic-olive oil spaghetti.


Salad Style: Team it with a zesty lemon-dressed green salad for a lighter bite.


And there you have it, Lykkers—a zesty pesto chicken dish that’s quick, juicy, and downright irresistible. That golden crust and herb-packed flavor make it a weeknight staple you’ll want to revisit. How did you serve yours? Any clever tweaks or favorite sides? Share your thoughts below—I’m all ears for your tasty tales!