Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Foil Packets

Name: Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Foil Packets
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; ½ cup basil pesto; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; Juice of ½ lemon

Published: August 22, 2025

by Hailey parker

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Foil Packets are a breeze to prepare, making dinner time stress-free
The bright flavors of basil and garlic create an unforgettable taste experience
These packets not only look fabulous but also keep everything moist and delicious
Perfect for grilling outdoors or baking indoors, they’re incredibly versatile too!

I remember serving this Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Foil Packets during a family reunion, and they were gone in minutes. flavorful zaatar garlic salmon Everyone kept asking for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
Fresh Broccoli: Choose vibrant green florets for the best texture and flavor; frozen broccoli works too if you’re in a pinch.
Pesto Sauce: Homemade or store-bought works wonders; just ensure it’s packed with fresh basil flavor for optimal taste.
Olive Oil: A splash of extra virgin olive oil adds richness while helping prevent sticking during cooking.
Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and veggies; don’t skimp on them!
Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the entire dish with its zesty goodness. mini lemon blueberry cheesecakes.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or get your grill going if you’re feeling adventurous. Grab some heavy-duty aluminum foil that can hold up against all that goodness we’re about to pack inside.

Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning those boneless chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial! Coating them evenly ensures every bite bursts with flavor.

Mix Your Magic Sauce: In a bowl, combine pesto sauce with a splash of olive oil and lemon juice. Stir until it’s well blended; trust me, the aroma will have your mouth watering already!

Add Broccoli Florets: Toss fresh broccoli florets into the pesto mixture until they’re well coated. This step not only amps up the flavor but also ensures they cook perfectly alongside the chicken.

Create Foil Packets: Lay out large pieces of aluminum foil on your counter. Place one seasoned chicken breast on each piece and top it generously with the broccoli-pesto mixture.

Seal & Cook!: Fold up the sides of the foil to create sealed packets, make sure no steam can escape! Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or grill over medium heat until chicken is cooked through.

Once you’ve opened those packets after cooking, prepare for an aromatic explosion! Serve hot right away for maximum enjoyment.

Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Foil Packets are not just easy to make; they’re also incredibly versatile! You can swap out chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a plant-based alternative. savory honey garlic meatballs Add other vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus if you want more color on your plate! Enjoy this dish as part of a salad or serve it over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Now go ahead and treat yourself to this delightful dish that promises laughter-filled dinners shared with loved ones!

You Must Know

Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Foil Packets are a game-changer for busy weeknights
They offer a delicious, healthy meal with minimal cleanup
The blend of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors makes it a family favorite, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your grill or oven while you prep the ingredients. Assemble the packets with chicken, broccoli, and pesto before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and juicy results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the broccoli for asparagus or snap peas for a different flavor profile. Adding cheese on top before sealing the foil packets can create a delightful melty layer.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, or microwave for about two minutes, stirring halfway through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use high-quality pesto for richer flavor; homemade versions can elevate your dish significantly
Ensure chicken pieces are uniform in size for consistent cooking
Avoid overcooking broccoli to maintain its crunch and vibrant color

Sharing this recipe with friends led to unexpected compliments and requests for more dinners together; it’s always great when simple meals create lasting memories!

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken in Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Foil Packets?

For more inspiration, check out this Hot Honey BBQ Chicken recipe.

Yes, just increase cooking time by 5-10 minutes to ensure thorough cooking.

What can I substitute for pesto in this recipe?

Try using sun-dried tomato paste or any homemade herb sauce as alternatives.

Is it possible to make these foil packets ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare them a few hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card