One-Pan Pesto Chicken & Rice 🍃
A dreamy weeknight dinner that comes together in just one pan- minimal cleanup, maximum flavor. Juicy chicken breasts are nestled into garlicky pesto-infused rice, with bursts of sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fresh basil ribbons to finish. It’s cozy, herby, and wildly satisfying… the kind of meal that feels like comfort food but still has a fresh, feel-good twist.
I love this dish not just for the flavors, but because it’s built on a method that’s endlessly versatile. Once you get the hang of it, searing the meat, layering in aromatics, adding rice and liquid, then letting the pan do its magic — you can swap ingredients based on what you have or what you're craving. The combos are truly endless, and it always turns out so good.
P.S. Sorry for the rough photo 😅 I didn’t plan on posting this one, so all I have are a few choppy video clips. That said, I’m trying to push past the perfectionist in me and just share—because it’s a solid little recipe and maybe it’ll come in handy for you too!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
One pan = easy cleanup
Loaded with flavor thanks to pesto, garlic, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil
Comforting yet balanced, with protein, carbs, and veggies in one dish
Perfect for busy weeknights or even casual entertaining
Easily customizable based on what you have on hand
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Sear
In a large, deep skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Sear the chicken for about 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden. They won’t be cooked through yet — no worries. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté Onion & Tomatoes
To the same pan, add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until it starts to soften. Then toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2–3 minutes until they begin to break down slightly and get glossy. This step adds a delicious, jammy sweetness.
4. Toast the Rice
Stir the rinsed rice into the onion and tomato mixture. Let it toast for a minute or two to build flavor and help the grains stay fluffy.
5. Add Broth & Pesto
Pour in the bone broth and stir in the pesto until everything is well combined.
6. Nestle in Chicken
Gently add the seared chicken breasts back into the pan, nestling them into the rice.
7. Simmer & Cover
Bring everything to a low simmer, cover with a lid, and cook for 18–20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon right at the end to brighten things up.
8. Finish with Cheese & Basil
Turn off the heat. Scatter the mozzarella balls over the top, cover again for a few minutes until they melt into dreamy little puddles. Finish with fresh basil ribbons and a generous dusting of grated parmesan.
Tips & Variations
Don’t skip rinsing your rice! It helps prevent stickiness and ensures a better texture.
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts if you prefer, just adjust cook time.
Swap in orzo or farro or even quinoa if you’re feeling adventurous (just adjust liquid ratios).
Want it creamy? Stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of mascarpone at the end.
Kid-friendly tip: Chop the chicken before serving and skip the basil garnish if your little one’s picky.
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