Pesto Chicken and Rice Bake

Ingredients and Weight:

• 4 boneless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 cup pesto sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. In an oven-safe baking dish, arrange the chicken breasts and pour the pesto sauce over them.
4. Top with the cooked white rice, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
5. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil leaves over the rice.
6. Drizzle the olive oil over the dish.
7. Cover the baking dish with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the cover and bake for another 15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the top is slightly browned.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: approximately 500 per serving (based on 8 servings)
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 30g

Dish Characteristics:

• This dish combines the flavors of pesto, chicken, and rice, creating a hearty and flavorful meal.
• The pesto sauce adds a rich and creamy texture to the dish, while the chicken provides a lean source of protein.
• The dish is easy to customize, allowing for variations in seasoning and ingredients based on personal preference.

User Comments:

• "This dish was delicious! The pesto sauce added a great flavor to the chicken and rice."
• "I loved the combination of pesto and chicken. The dish was easy to make and was a hit with my family."
• "The parmesan cheese and fresh basil gave this dish a great taste. Will definitely make it again."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use fresh ingredients to enhance the flavor of the dish.
• Adjust the seasoning to taste, according to personal preference.
• Ensure the chicken is cooked through before serving to ensure safety.
• If desired, you can add other ingredients such as vegetables or herbs to customize the dish further.