Grilled Lemon Pesto Chicken
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This Grilled Chicken Lemon Pesto is a high-protein, flavor-packed dish that's perfect for summer... or anytime of year, really! No joke, it's my go to for an easy, high-protein dinner! Juicy grilled chicken is topped with basil pesto and melted parmesan for a fresh, satisfying meal that comes together in minutes.
Quick Look: Grilled Lemon Pesto Chicken
- 🕒 Total Time: 20 minutes
- 👥 Servings: 4
- 📊 Calories: 332 per serving
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If you love this pesto chicken recipe, be sure to check out my Cheesy Pesto Chicken recipe too! It's a similar flavor delivered in a slightly different way, but I think you'll love it!
Why You'll Love The Recipe
- High-Protein & Healthy - This grilled lemon pesto chicken is loaded with lean protein, making it a perfect healthy dinner option for muscle-building, weight management, or just staying full and satisfied.
- Quick & Easy Dinner - With minimal prep and just a few simple ingredients, this recipe comes together in minutes-ideal for weeknight dinners or busy schedules.
- Kid-Friendly & Customizable - You can easily adjust or leave out certain ingredients to suit your kids' tastes, making this a family-friendly meal everyone will enjoy.
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Select Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts - I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are thinly sliced for this recipe. If you have large chicken breasts, slice them from top to bottom to make them thinner.
- Pesto - You can make your own or for an easier route, I love the Classico Basil Pesto.
- Lemon - Use a fresh lemon for best flavor
- Parmesan - Adding fresh shredded parmesan will taste better and melt the best in this recipe. If you don't want to shred your own cheese, you can use pre-shredded parmesan.
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
Recipe Tips & Variations
➡️ Quicker Prep - You can grill your chicken ahead of time and add toppings when ready to save time. You may miss out on the marinade flavor, but it will still taste great!
➡️ Make It Kid Friendly - If you've got picky eaters, let them add their own toppings. Sometimes our kids will skip the pesto and just top with cheese.
➡️ Marinate for Maximum Flavor - Let the chicken sit in the lemon pesto for at least 30 minutes before grilling for a more intense, juicy flavor.
My Baked Crack Chicken Recipe is another delicious variation of a chicken breast that you're going to want to make soon! My kids always request it and as a dietitian, I love how it's a high protein dinner the whole family loves.
What To Serve With Grilled Lemon Pesto Chicken
- We love this recipe with air fried vegetables like green beans or broccoli.
- Add a whole wheat dinner roll or pasta for additional carbohydrates.
How to Make Grilled Lemon Pesto Chicken
Step 1: After chicken is finished marinating, grill it on a grill or in a skillet until it is cooked through and internal temperature is 165 degrees F.
Step 2: Next spread 2 tablespoon pesto on each chicken breast followed by 2 tablespoon shredded parmesan. Lower temperature to low-medium and cover with lid until cheese is melted.
Recipe FAQs
Yes! Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Baking is a great option for indoor meals or weeknight dinners.
I love this with a side of veggies like broccoli or a side salad. You can also serve this over pasta!
Check out my Wholesome Meals Made Easy meal planning app for easy, healthy recipes your whole crew will actually love. It's like having a dietitian in your back pocket - quick, balanced, and family-approved!
Other Delicious Chicken Recipes
If you tried this Grilled Lemon Pesto Chicken or any other recipe on my blog, please leave a star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below! Thanks for visiting today!
Grilled Lemon Pesto Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 Thin boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 4 tablespoon Fresh squeezed lemon juice
- ½ cup Basil pesto
- ½ cup Freshly grated parmesan
Instructions
- In a large ziplock back, add the lemon juice and olive oil then add the 4 thin chicken breasts and mix well to marinate. (You can let this sit in the refrigerator to deepen the flavor if you'd prefer!)
- Next spray a large skillet or grill pan with cooking spray or olive oil and put over medium high heat. Add the chicken breasts.
- Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side for a total of about 12-14 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
- medium and cover with lid until cheese melts.
- Next, spread 2 tablespoon of basil pesto on each chicken followed by 2 tablespoon shredded parmesan to each chicken breast. Lower temperature to low-medium and cover with lid until cheese melts.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
A summer favorite! Shoot, I'll be eating this year round actually! Love the this one so much!
Pesto is my jam, highly rec!