Name: Pesto Ranch Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: ½ cup basil pesto; ¼ cup olive oil; ½ cup bottled ranch dressing; 3 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 Tbsp minced garlic (or to taste); salt; pepper; 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

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The first time I made Pesto Ranch Chicken, it was on a busy weeknight when I needed something quick yet satisfying. I had just returned from a long day at work, and the last thing I wanted was to spend hours in the kitchen. I rummaged through my pantry and found a jar of basil pesto, some ranch dressing, and a few chicken breasts waiting to be transformed into a delicious meal. As the aroma filled the kitchen, I knew I had struck gold with this simple yet flavorful dish. Pesto Ranch Chicken became a staple in my home, loved by both my family and friends.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
35 g

Tools Used:
Charcoal Chimney Starter, Grilling Tongs, Cast Iron Grill Pan, Meat Thermometer

Why You Need This Pesto Ranch Chicken

Effortless Preparation

The beauty of Pesto Ranch Chicken lies in its simplicity. With minimal ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful marinade in no time. All it takes is a mix of pesto, ranch dressing, and a few other pantry staples to create a delicious coating for the chicken. I love how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for busy evenings when you still want to serve something amazing.

Versatile Marinade

This marinade is not just for chicken! You can use it on any cut of chicken, whether it’s breasts, thighs, or even wings. The pesto and ranch blend together to create a creamy, zesty flavor that complements any type of poultry. You can also experiment by adding different herbs or spices to customize it to your liking.

Grill to Perfection

Grilling the chicken adds a beautiful char and depth of flavor that makes Pesto Ranch Chicken even more delightful. As it sizzles on the grill, the chicken becomes juicy and tender, while the marinade caramelizes to create a delicious crust. This method of cooking keeps the flavors intact and ensures that each bite is packed with flavor.

Family-Friendly Meal

If you’re looking for something the whole family will enjoy, this dish is it! Kids love the creamy flavors of the pesto and ranch dressing, and it’s easy for adults to appreciate the depth of flavors too. It’s a fantastic way to introduce new flavors to younger palates without overwhelming them, making it a win-win for family dinners.

Great for Meal Prep

Pesto Ranch Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. When you’re ready to cook, just fire up the grill or oven, and dinner will be ready in no time. It’s a fantastic way to ensure you have a delicious meal ready to go during a busy week.

Main Ingredients for Pesto Ranch Chicken

Each ingredient in Pesto Ranch Chicken contributes to a harmonious flavor profile, making it a favorite in many households. The key players in this dish are the basil pesto and ranch dressing, which bring a creamy, herbaceous, and tangy element that perfectly complements the chicken. Combine these with the richness of olive oil and the umami depth of Worcestershire sauce for a truly delectable meal.

Basil Pesto: A fresh blend of basil, garlic, nuts, and cheese, basil pesto adds a vibrant flavor to the marinade and keeps the chicken moist.
Olive Oil: This healthy fat not only helps to keep the chicken juicy but also enhances the flavors of the marinade.
Bottled Ranch Dressing: A creamy dressing that adds tang and richness to the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce contributes a savory depth and complexity to the marinade.
Minced Garlic: Garlic adds a lovely aroma and flavor that elevates the overall taste.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that absorbs the marinade beautifully and cooks quickly.

Preparation Steps for Pesto Ranch Chicken

Cooking Pesto Ranch Chicken is a delightful experience. The process is straightforward yet rewarding, leading to a meal that feels indulgent. Just follow these easy steps to create a flavor-packed dish everyone will rave about.

Start by preparing the marinade. In a medium bowl, stir together the olive oil, bottled ranch dressing, basil pesto, and Worcestershire sauce. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Let this mixture stand for about five minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Take your chicken breasts and pound them to an even thickness of about a quarter inch. This ensures they cook evenly and remain tender. You can use a meat mallet or a heavy pan for this step.
Place the pounded chicken in a gallon-sized ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least two hours, or even better, overnight. This allows the chicken to soak in all those delicious flavors.
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot to achieve that perfect char. If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the chicken on a stovetop grill pan or in the oven.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the preheated grill. Cook for about eight to twelve minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring a juicy bite every time.
Slice the Pesto Ranch Chicken and serve it up hot. This dish is perfect on its own or served alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.

Things Worth Knowing

Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will become. Aim for at least two hours, but overnight works best.
Grilling Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high for the best results. This helps achieve a nice sear while keeping the inside tender.
Cooking Temperature: Always check for an internal temperature of 165ºF to ensure your chicken is safely cooked.
Resting Period: Letting the chicken rest after cooking helps retain moisture, resulting in a juicier bite.

Helpful Hints

Here are some tips that might help you enjoy Pesto Ranch Chicken even more:

Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for up to four days.
Freezing: You can freeze both uncooked and cooked chicken. For the best results, prepare the marinade, place the chicken in a freezer bag, and pour the marinade over it. Seal and freeze.
Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
Cooking Options: If you don’t have a grill, feel free to pan-sear the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes per side and bake it in the oven at 400ºF for 10 minutes.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different marinades or toppings. Adding cheese like mozzarella or parmesan can enhance flavor.

What Complements This Pesto Ranch Chicken

Serve with a side salad: A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the creamy flavors of Pesto Ranch Chicken.
Accompany with roasted vegetables: Roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add a colorful and healthy side to this dish.
Enjoy it for lunch or dinner: This meal is versatile enough for any time of day, whether it’s a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner.
Great for gatherings: If you’re hosting a barbecue or family get-together, Pesto Ranch Chicken is sure to impress your guests.
Store leftovers creatively: Leftover chicken is great tossed in pasta or on a salad for an easy next-day lunch.

FAQ

You can pair Pesto Ranch Chicken with various side dishes such as roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or even over pasta for a satisfying meal. The creamy flavors complement many options, making it versatile for family dinners or gatherings.

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and coat the chicken in advance. Simply let it marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight, then grill or bake it when you’re ready to enjoy it. This makes it a great option for meal prep.

The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked properly is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165ºF. Additionally, the juices should run clear, and there should be no pink in the center.

Yes, you can use any cut of chicken you prefer! Whether it’s boneless chicken thighs, wings, or even drumsticks, just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Each type will bring its unique flavor and texture to the dish.

Conclusion

In summary, Pesto Ranch Chicken is a delightful meal that combines convenience with incredible flavors. Ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. I encourage you to give it a try; you won’t be disappointed. Enjoy making lasting memories around the dinner table with this easy and delicious recipe!