Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs – Irresistible Flavor!

Name: Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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

Published: March 26, 2025

by Liora

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, even if you’re not a culinary wizard.
The flavor profile is a delicious blend of herby pesto and crispy chicken that’s sure to impress.
Visually, it’s stunning with its golden-brown crust and vibrant green pesto.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve on its own or with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients for Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs

For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Bone-In Chicken Thighs: Choose skin-on thighs for maximum flavor and crunch; about 4-6 pieces should do.
Pesto Sauce: Store-bought or homemade; this adds a burst of herbal goodness to your chicken.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give your chicken that irresistible crunch; opt for seasoned panko for extra flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese enhances the flavor and adds a lovely golden color when baked.
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps everything stick together while adding richness; extra virgin is best!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that warmth fills your kitchen, grab a baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray—because nobody wants their dinner glued to the pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat your chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step may seem mundane but trust me; it helps achieve that glorious crunch we’re all craving! Season them generously with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Mix the Crunchy Coating

In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a splash of olive oil. Stir until everything is coated evenly—a little texture never hurt anyone!

Step 4: Slather on the Pesto

Spread a generous layer of pesto sauce over each chicken thigh. Go ahead—be generous! The more pesto love you apply, the better the result will be.

Step 5: Coat with Crunch

Now comes the fun part! Take each pesto-covered thigh and press it into your breadcrumb mixture until well-coated. It’s like giving your chicken a cozy blanket of crunch.

Step 6: Bake Away!

Arrange your beautifully coated chicken thighs in the prepared baking dish. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and golden brown perfection.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining pesto for the perfect finishing touch. Voila! Dinner is served!

There you have it—a flavorful journey from prep to plate with Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs that will leave you smiling (and maybe even dancing) at dinner time! Enjoy every bite!

You Must Know

This amazing Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken thighs in pesto for at least 30 minutes. While they soak up that deliciousness, preheat your oven to 400°F. After marinating, bake the chicken until it reaches a juicy internal temperature of 165°F, creating a perfect crispy crust.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your crunchy baked pesto chicken thighs! Swap out regular pesto for sun-dried tomato pesto or add some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy kick. Top with fresh basil or pine nuts for added texture and flavor before serving.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover crunchy baked pesto chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to keep that crispy goodness intact.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve perfectly crunchy baked pesto chicken thighs, ensure your oven is fully preheated before placing the chicken inside.
Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
Lastly, let the chicken rest briefly before slicing to retain its juices.

Sometimes, I whip up this recipe when my friends come over, and their reactions are priceless! It’s become my secret weapon for impressing guests without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.

FAQs:

What are Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs?

Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs are a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken thighs with a delicious pesto coating. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a crispy texture paired with the vibrant flavors of basil, garlic, and nuts found in traditional pesto. pair with herbed tuna salad The baking method ensures that the chicken remains juicy while developing a golden, crunchy exterior. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed with various sides.

How long does it take to prepare Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs?

Preparation time for Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs is approximately 10 to 15 minutes. The cooking process then takes about 30 to 35 minutes in the oven. Overall, you can have this tasty dish ready in under an hour. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests, ensuring you spend more time enjoying your meal rather than prepping.

What side dishes pair well with Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs?

Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs pair beautifully with various side dishes. Consider serving them alongside roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. These options complement the flavors of the chicken while adding nutritional balance to your meal. grilled chicken salad with blueberry vinaigrette You can also serve it over pasta for a heartier option or with quinoa for a healthy twist.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe if preferred. However, keep in mind that breasts may cook faster due to their leaner nature. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid drying them out. The flavor will remain deliciously similar thanks to the pesto coating, making it a versatile choice based on your personal preference.

Conclusion for Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs:

In summary, Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to please any palate. With straightforward preparation and cooking times, this dish fits seamlessly into any dinner routine. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal experience. Enjoy the rich taste of pesto combined with juicy chicken thighs baked to crunchy perfection!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card