Grilled Chicken with Basil Pesto Beans invites you into a world of refined flavors and elegant presentation. This dish harmoniously combines the smoky richness of grilled chicken with the vibrant freshness of basil pesto and the hearty texture of white beans. Its simplicity belies the sophistication of its taste, making it a memorable centerpiece for intimate gatherings or casual dinners alike.
Why Make This Recipe
- Effortless Yet Elegant: Achieve a gourmet meal without extensive cooking time or complex techniques.
- Minimal Ingredients: Utilize just a handful of high-quality ingredients to create layers of flavor.
- Impressive Flavor: The contrast of smoky chicken, rich pesto, and creamy beans offers a delightful culinary experience.
This dish stands out by marrying the classic elements of Italian cuisine with the approachability of modern cooking. Each bite presents a medley of textures and a lush balance of flavors.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the Sauce
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, tightly packed
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
For the Topping
- 2 cups cooked white beans (such as cannellini or navy)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh basil, torn, for garnish
How to Make Grilled Chicken with Basil Pesto Beans
- Prepare the Basil Pesto: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, garlic, parmesan cheese, and toasted pine nuts. Pulse until coarsely blended. Gradually drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil while blending until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry, then drizzle with olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper. This step enhances the chicken’s flavor profile while allowing for a beautiful sear.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and you have a lovely char. Let rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Sauté the Beans: In a separate pan, heat the cooked white beans over medium heat. Stir in a few tablespoons of the basil pesto, warming the beans through. Don’t overcook; maintain their tender texture while the flavors meld.
- Combine and Serve: On each plate, create a bed of the coated beans. Slice the chicken and place it artfully atop the beans. Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest and torn fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken with Basil Pesto Beans
For a sophisticated presentation, use a white plate to create a clean canvas. Arrange a generous scoop of pesto beans as the base, and elegantly layer the sliced grilled chicken on top. A drizzle of pesto around the plate adds a polished touch, while scattered basil leaves enhance visual appeal.
How to Store Grilled Chicken with Basil Pesto Beans
To preserve freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure the chicken is completely cool before covering. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out, adding a splash of water or broth for moisture if needed.
Tips to Make Grilled Chicken with Basil Pesto Beans
- Marinate for Depth: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for at least an hour to deepen the flavor.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest basil and high-quality olive oil for the best pesto.
- Don’t Rush the Grill: Allow the chicken to naturally release from the grill before flipping; this ensures the best sear.
Variation
- For added luxury, consider topping with shaved truffle or swapping pine nuts for macadamia nuts for an unexpected twist on the pesto.
- Experiment with different beans, such as heirloom varieties, for unique colors and flavors.
FAQs
Can I make the basil pesto in advance?
Yes, basil pesto can be prepared up to three days in advance. Store it in an airtight container, drizzling a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent oxidation.
Is it possible to use other proteins?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with grilled shrimp or pan-seared salmon as an alternative to chicken.
How can I make this dish vegan?
For a vegan version, substitute the chicken with grilled Portobello mushrooms and replace parmesan with nutritional yeast in the pesto.
Conclusion
Grilled Chicken with Basil Pesto Beans encapsulates the essence of refined cuisine while remaining accessible for home cooks. Its simplicity, combined with luxurious flavors, offers a delightful experience that merits sharing. What unique touch would you incorporate to make this dish your own?
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Grilled Chicken with Basil Pesto Beans
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A harmonious blend of smoky grilled chicken, vibrant basil pesto, and hearty white beans, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, tightly packed
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 cups cooked white beans (such as cannellini or navy)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh basil, torn, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Basil Pesto: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, garlic, parmesan cheese, and toasted pine nuts. Pulse until coarsely blended. Gradually drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil while blending until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry, then drizzle with olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for a few minutes.
- Sauté the Beans: In a separate pan, heat the cooked white beans over medium heat. Stir in a few tablespoons of the basil pesto, warming them through.
- Combine and Serve: On each plate, create a bed of the coated beans. Slice the chicken and place it artfully atop the beans. Finish with lemon zest and torn basil.
Notes
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for 1 hour prior to grilling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 70mg