Tasty Grilled Pesto Chicken with Squash

A flavorful pesto marinade transforms this grilled chicken. This grilled pesto Chicken Recipe is healthy and light, but full of flavor and over-the-top delicious! Basil garlic chicken is stir-fried and served over fresh veggie pasta that's been tossed in a silky, herbaceous basil pesto sauce.

This recipe contains yellow squash and pesto and it's topped with fresh basil. You're going to love how fresh and delicious this grilled pesto chicken is, it's a sneaky way to get vegetables into your mealtime rotation! 

INGREDIENTS OF GRILLED PESTO CHICKEN

• 1/4 c. toasted walnuts
• 3 tbsp. refrigerated pesto
• 1 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
• Kosher salt and black pepper
• 3 zucchini
• 2 yellow squash, cut lengthwise into thick slices
• 1 tbsp. olive oil
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast fillets
• 2 tsp. salt-free garlic and herb seasoning blend
• Fresh basil, for serving

INSTRUCTIONS FOR GRILLED PESTO CHICKEN

1. To make this dish, first preheat your grill to medium-high. In a bowl, mix together walnuts, pesto, and lemon juice until combined. If the mixture is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of water. Then season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Drizzle olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper on 3 zucchini and 2 yellow squash (cut lengthwise into thick slices).
3. Season your boneless, skinless chicken breast fillets with a salt-free garlic and herb seasoning blend, kosher salt, and black pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 5 to 6 minutes per side, and grill squash for 2 to 4 minutes per side. Once done, top the vegetables and chicken with pesto and fresh basil before serving.

What to Serve With Grilled Pesto Chicken
Here are some side dishes that pair well with grilled pesto chicken:

• Mashed potatoes: A classic side that balances the strong flavors of the pesto.
• Roasted cherry tomatoes: Their sweetness complements the savory pesto.
• Grilled asparagus: Adds a crunchy texture and smoky flavor.
• Jasmine rice: A light side that can absorb the pesto sauce.
• Green beans with bacon and onion: Offers a blend of textures and flavors.
• Rice pilaf: An aromatic side that pairs well with many main dishes.
• Italian salad: A fresh, crunchy side that can lighten the meal.
• Sautéed spinach: A healthy and flavorful addition.
• Aglio e olio pasta: A simple, garlic-infused pasta that pairs well with chicken.
• Pesto pasta salad: Combines cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
• Cauliflower rice: A nutritious and delicious low-carb option.
• Eggplant parmesan: A hearty side dish that matches well with the chicken.
• Garlic roasted asparagus: Another vegetable side that adds a distinct flavor.
• Southern Pan-Fried Potatoes and Onions: A comforting side dish that is easy to prepare.

Tips for making Grilled Pesto Chicken
Here are some tips to help you make the best Grilled Pesto Chicken:

• Marinate the chicken: Marinating the chicken in pesto for a few hours or overnight will infuse it with more flavor.
• Choose quality pesto: If you're not making your own, choose a high-quality store-bought pesto for the best flavor.
• Grill temperature: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Too high can cause the pesto to burn, while too low won't give you the desired sear.
• Avoid cross-contamination: Don't use the same brush for raw and cooked chicken. Also, don't return cooked chicken on a plate with raw chicken.
• Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Rest the chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making it juicier.
• Freshen it up: Serve the grilled chicken with a fresh dollop of pesto or sprinkle of fresh basil for extra flavor.
• Grill veggies: Consider grilling some vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus on the side. They pair beautifully with the flavors of the pesto chicken.

Alternative Ways to cook Grilled Pesto Chicken
Here are some alternative ways to cook Grilled Pesto Chicken:

• Baked Pesto Chicken: Instead of grilling, you can bake your pesto-marinated chicken in the oven. This method is perfect for a hands-off approach and can result in tender, juicy chicken.
• Pesto Chicken Skewers: Cut the chicken into chunks, skewer them with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes, then grill or bake.
• Pesto Chicken Stir-Fry: Cut the chicken into strips and stir-fry with a variety of vegetables. Add the pesto towards the end of cooking.
• Pesto-Marinated Grilled Chicken: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of pesto, rice vinegar, salt, and sugar before grilling for a different flavor profile.
• BBQ Basil Pesto Grilled Chicken: Mix some BBQ sauce into your pesto for a smoky, tangy twist on the classic pesto chicken.
• Balsamic and Pesto Grilled Chicken: Add balsamic vinegar to your pesto marinade for a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Pesto Chicken and Tomato Kebabs: Similar to skewers, but with the addition of tomatoes. The tomatoes will become sweet and slightly charred on the grill, adding another layer of flavor.
• Grilled Pesto Chicken Stuffed with Mozzarella: Slice a pocket into your chicken breasts, stuff with mozzarella, then coat with pesto and grill for a cheesy surprise.

Outdoor Kitchen Outlet
Are you looking for an easy and delicious way to enjoy your next backyard barbecue? Try grilling pesto chicken! Grilling chicken with a flavorful pesto sauce is a great way to add some zest to any meal. Outdoor Kitchen Outlet supplies the best grills so that you can get the perfect finish every time. Our unique grills provide even heat over a wide surface area, so that you can get perfectly cooked results without any mess or hassle. So come on down to Outdoor Kitchen Outlet and get the best grills for your next backyard barbecue!  You won't regret it.  We promise perfect results every time! Contact us today at (888) 667-4986 or visit our website for more information.