Pesto Chicken Bowl (Printable View)

Tender pesto chicken over fluffy rice with fresh vegetables for a nourishing, flavorful meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Chicken & Marinade

01 - 1.1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
02 - 4 tablespoons basil pesto
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Rice

06 - 1.25 cups uncooked jasmine or basmati rice
07 - 2 cups water
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Fresh Vegetables & Toppings

09 - 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
10 - 1 medium cucumber, diced
11 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
12 - 1 medium avocado, sliced
13 - 2 cups baby spinach or mixed salad greens
14 - 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts, optional
15 - Fresh basil leaves for garnish

# How To Make It:

01 - In a mixing bowl, combine chicken pieces, basil pesto, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well coated. Cover and marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours refrigerated for deeper flavor development.
02 - Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups water and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes until tender and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let rest covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
03 - Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add marinated chicken with all marinade and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and lightly browned.
04 - Halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber, thinly slice red onion and avocado, and wash spinach or greens. Arrange prepared vegetables for assembly.
05 - Divide cooked rice equally among 4 bowls. Top each bowl with cooked pesto chicken, fresh vegetables, and greens. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
06 - Serve immediately. Recipe may be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
  • Packed with fresh, colorful vegetables for a nutrient-dense meal.
  • Highly versatile and easy to customize with your favorite grains or greens.
02 -
  • Use a high-quality pesto, as it is the primary source of flavor for the chicken.
  • Toast the pine nuts in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes until golden to release their essential oils.
  • Ensure you check pesto labels if you have specific dietary requirements regarding dairy or tree nuts.
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