Crunchy Baked Pesto Chicken Thighs

These crunchy baked pesto chicken thighs are a flavorful and simple dish that will have your taste buds dancing. The chicken thighs are coated in a delicious pesto sauce and then topped with a crispy breadcrumb and Parmesan cheese crust. Baking them in the oven creates a crispy texture on the outside while keeping the meat tender and juicy on the inside. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty dish to impress guests.

Ingredients

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup pesto sauce
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh basil for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides.
4. Spread the pesto sauce evenly over the top of each chicken thigh.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Coat each chicken thigh with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing it gently to adhere.
7. Place the chicken thighs in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the crust is golden and crispy.
8. Remove the chicken thighs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and serve hot.

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