Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs – A Flavorful Delight

Name: Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 bone-in chicken thighs (skin-on); 1 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade); ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: March 13, 2025

by Chloe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The simplicity of this recipe makes it perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor or presentation.
With its mouthwatering blend of pesto and crispy texture, it’s sure to impress your guests.
The vibrant colors and textures create an eye-catching dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether served with rice or salad, it’s versatile enough to pair beautifully with various sides.

Ingredients for Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs

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

Bone-in Chicken Thighs: These provide juiciness and flavor; look for thighs with skin-on for maximum crunch.
Pesto Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade; either way, it should be fresh and full of flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds an irresistible savory note that enhances the chicken’s flavors.
Breadcrumbs: Choose panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch; they make all the difference in texture.
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps everything brown beautifully while keeping the chicken moist.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors in your dish.

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 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving that crispy skin we all crave. While you wait for the oven to heat up, grab a baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Take your bone-in chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper; don’t be shy! This step is crucial as it enhances the overall flavors.

Step 3: Mix Pesto Goodness

In a mixing bowl, combine about one cup of pesto sauce with half a cup of grated parmesan cheese. This mixture will give our chicken a flavor-packed coating that’s hard to resist.

Step 4: Coat Your Thighs

Using your hands (or a brush if you want to stay fancy), slather each seasoned thigh generously with the pesto-parmesan mixture until fully coated—because who doesn’t love extra flavor?

Step 5: Add Crunch

In another bowl, add one cup of panko breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of olive oil. Toss them together until they’re evenly coated. Then press these breadcrumbs onto each thigh firmly so they stick well—this is where that glorious crunch comes from!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place your coated chicken thighs in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (73°C). Keep an eye on them in those last few minutes; you want them golden brown!

Transfer to plates and drizzle any remaining pesto sauce over them as a finishing touch that will have everyone swooning over dinner.

So there you have it! Crunchy baked pesto chicken thighs that not only satisfy your taste buds but also bring back sweet memories around the dinner table. Enjoy!

You Must Know

This amazing crunchy baked pesto chicken thighs recipe is not just about flavor; it also makes dinner planning a breeze.
You can easily tweak the ingredients based on what you have.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it a showstopper at any meal.
Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, start by marinating your chicken thighs in pesto for at least an hour. Preheat the oven while you prepare your side dishes. Bake the chicken until it’s golden brown and crisp, around 25-30 minutes, while you whip up a fresh salad.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this dish! Swap out pesto for a sun-dried tomato spread or try adding some fresh herbs like basil or oregano. Toss in some cherry tomatoes or zucchini for added color and nutrition, making it your own masterpiece.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover crunchy baked pesto chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for that crispy texture again.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always pat your chicken thighs dry before marinating; this helps the pesto adhere better and creates a delicious crust.
Use high-quality pesto for maximum flavor; homemade is best if you have time!
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to keep it juicy.

Sometimes I find myself reminiscing about that one dinner party where my friends raved about these crunchy baked pesto chicken thighs—they were practically asking for my secret recipe like I was some kind of culinary magician!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs?

To prepare Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs, gather skin-on chicken thighs, pesto sauce, breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can use homemade or store-bought pesto. The combination of these ingredients creates a delicious crust while keeping the chicken juicy and flavorful. Don’t forget to preheat your oven to ensure even cooking!

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

Cooking Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs takes about 25 to 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the thighs, so using a meat thermometer is a great way to check doneness without guessing.

Can I make Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs in advance?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken thighs in pesto and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This enhances the flavor significantly. When ready to cook, simply coat with breadcrumbs and bake as directed. This makes it convenient for meal prep or quick dinners during busy weeknights!

What can I serve with Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs?

Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a light option, you can serve them over quinoa or rice. These sides balance the richness of the chicken and complement the flavors perfectly.

Conclusion for Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs :

In conclusion, Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs offer a simple yet delectable way to enjoy chicken. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a flavorful dish that impresses everyone at your table. Whether you’re serving it for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe will surely become a favorite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with sides for a complete meal experience!

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📖 Recipe Card