Why You Will Adore This Recipe

• Only 2 main ingredients
• Quick prep time; simply bake and walk away
• Chicken turns out juicy, flavorful, and has a perfect crisp skin
• Pairs well with virtually any side you have available

Ingredients Needed for Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (trimmed and patted dry)
• ½ cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation Method for Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

First, trim off any excess fat and thoroughly pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This step is crucial, as it helps the pesto cling to the chicken and encourages crispy skin.

Step 2: Marinate

Next, in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag, toss the chicken thighs with pesto. Be sure to cover them and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for enhanced flavor.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Then, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up in the dish. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 175°F and the skin is golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. For an added touch of flavor, spoon some of the pesto-infused juices from the pan over the chicken.

Tips for Achieving Perfectly Crispy Skin

• Make sure to dry the skin thoroughly before marinating; it is essential for achieving that coveted crispiness.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking dish; leave enough space to allow heat circulation.
• For extra-crispy skin, consider broiling the thighs for the last 2–3 minutes of baking. Just watch closely to avoid burning.

Can You Use Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs?

Yes! If you choose boneless skinless chicken thighs, reduce the cooking time to about 30 minutes since they cook faster. The flavor remains exceptional, but crispy skin won’t be achieved without the skin intact.

Serving Suggestions for Pesto Chicken Thighs

These juicy thighs pair seamlessly with nearly everything:

• Cilantro Lime Rice for a zesty twist
• Shaved Brussels Sprouts & Bacon Salad for a hearty side
• Pasta tossed in extra pesto for an authentic Italian vibe
• Roasted vegetables or light steamed greens for a healthier option

Final Thoughts on Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs

This Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs recipe serves as a wonderful reminder that dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be impressive. With just a few minutes of preparation and some pantry staples, you’ll create a dish that feels fancy yet fits perfectly into any busy night. Do yourself a favor and make extra—you’ll definitely want leftovers for lunch tomorrow.