Chicken Breast With Orange Basil Pesto
Juicy chicken breasts are marinated in a vibrant orange basil pesto, offering fresh, citrusy flavors perfect for a quick, flavorful meal suitable for summer dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place basil, orange rind, and garlic in a blender or food processor.
- Add orange juice, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Process until a paste is formed.
- Marinate chicken breasts in the mixture overnight.
- Spread the mixture over the chicken breasts.
- Grill or broil the chicken until cooked through.
- Optional: Serve with additional orange and basil garnish.
Tips & Substitutions
For best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight as suggested. If fresh basil is unavailable, you can use spinach or arugula for a different twist. Adjust the garlic based on your preference; roasted garlic adds a milder flavor. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken hot, garnished with extra orange slices and basil for a fresh touch. This dish pairs beautifully with Paella Style Vegetables or a light salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Mediterranean recipes like couscous or a quinoa salad to complement the citrus flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Microwaving is also an option, but be careful not to overcook, as it can dry out the chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Breast With Orange Basil Pesto contains roughly 143 calories, with 12g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (77% of the Daily Value), calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2396mg per serving (104% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier option. Alternatively, pork tenderloin or firm fish like salmon also work well with the orange basil pesto. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is cooked through.
What can I do if I don't have fresh basil?
If fresh basil isn't available, dried basil can be used, but the flavor will be less vibrant. Use about one-third of the amount in dried form. Alternatively, you can explore other herbs such as cilantro or parsley for a different flavor profile.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and use the orange basil pesto to marinate grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. Serve them over pasta or grains for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).