Broccoli Pesto Chicken: A Flavorful and Nutritious Meal
If you’re looking for a dish that is packed with flavor and nutrients, this broccoli pesto chicken is a perfect choice. Combining the earthy taste of broccoli with the richness of basil and almonds, this pesto adds a unique twist to a classic chicken dish. The crispy, golden-brown chicken thighs complement the fresh, garlicky pesto, creating a meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
• 2 small heads broccoli (no florets)
• 1 cup fresh basil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ cup raw almonds
• ½ cup plus 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan
• 1 clove garlic
• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• Freshly ground black pepper
Making the Broccoli Pesto
To begin, prepare the pesto by blending half of the broccoli, basil, and ½ cup of olive oil in a food processor until smooth. Once combined, add the Parmesan, almonds, and garlic. Season with salt and blend again until all ingredients are fully incorporated. The result is a creamy, nutty, and herbaceous pesto that will serve as the perfect topping for the chicken.
Cooking the Chicken
Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the oil is heating, season the chicken thighs generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 11 minutes per side, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown and the chicken is fully cooked through.
Bringing It All Together
Once the chicken is cooked, add the remaining broccoli to the skillet, allowing it to cook slightly and absorb the flavors from the chicken. Finally, dollop the broccoli pesto over the chicken and serve warm. The combination of crispy chicken and creamy, nutty pesto makes this dish a delicious and wholesome meal.
