Thin Crispy Grilled Pesto Chicken Recipe
This Thin Crispy Grilled Pesto Chicken recipe features tender, butterflied chicken breasts marinated in vibrant homemade pesto then grilled to perfection. The quick marination infuses bold herbaceous flavors, while high-heat grilling creates a crispy outer layer and juicy interior, perfect for a light and flavorful meal.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 41 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts, butterflied and separated to create 4 thin breasts
Pesto
- Homemade pesto (ingredients typically include fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Cover both sides of the butterflied chicken breasts generously with homemade pesto. Place them in a storage container or a ziploc bag and refrigerate to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb the herbaceous, garlicky flavors of the pesto.
- Prepare the grill: Preheat your grill to high heat and ensure the grates are well oiled to prevent sticking. This step is key to achieving a crispy exterior on the chicken.
- Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade bag and place the breasts directly on the hot grill grates. Lower the heat to medium and cook for about 3 minutes per side. Grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked but remains juicy inside.
Notes
- Butterflying the chicken breasts helps them cook evenly and quickly.
- Using a meat thermometer ensures the chicken is safely cooked without drying out.
- Homemade pesto can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Serving suggestion: pair with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables.
