Name: The Best Pesto Rice with Chicken, Tomatoes, and Pine Nuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3 cups Cooked Brown Rice (Pre-cooked or frozen varieties recommended.); 1 cup Prepared Pesto (High-quality options like Kirkland brand are ideal.); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Use fresh lemons for best flavor.); 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest; 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste.); 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust to taste.); 2 cups Cooked Chicken Breast (Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.); 1 cup Grape Tomatoes (Can be substituted with other types of tomatoes.); 0.5 cup Pine Nuts (Toast them beforehand for best flavor.); 2 tablespoons Honey Balsamic Glaze (Optional for added flavor.)

Pesto Rice with Chicken, Tomatoes and Pine Nuts

When the hectic pace of the week starts to wear me down, I crave meals that are not only nourishing but also a breeze to whip up. Enter my Quick and Easy Pesto Rice with Chicken, Tomatoes, and Pine Nuts-a dish that marries the nutty crunch of pine nuts with the bright zing of fresh lemon and the rich, herby embrace of pesto. The vibrant pop of grape tomatoes adds just the right touch of freshness, transforming simple ingredients into a delightful and satisfying meal.

Perfect for family dinners or meal-prep lunches, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those busy days when fast food is all too tempting. With only six key ingredients, including convenience options like pre-cooked rice and ready-made pesto (hello, Costco!), you can enjoy a wholesome, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. And for those leaning towards vegetarian meals, swapping chicken for beans is a seamless transition. Ready to bring this flavorful gem to your dinner table? Let's dive in!

Why will you love Pesto Rice with Chicken?

Simplicity at Its Best: You'll love how easily this dish comes together, with just 30 minutes and minimal ingredients required.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of toasted pine nuts, zesty lemon, and vibrant grape tomatoes creates a symphony of taste that will have your taste buds dancing.

Meal-Prep Friendly: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can make a big batch and enjoy it for lunches all week.

Versatile Options: Whether you're in the mood for chicken or want a vegetarian twist, this recipe adapts seamlessly.

Crowd-Pleasing Choice: With its colorful presentation and flavor-packed profile, it's a sure winner for family dinners or gatherings.

For those busy evenings, consider incorporating some of our other easy dinner recipes for more variety!

Pesto Rice Ingredients

• For a delicious meal prep experience.

For the Base

Cooked Brown Rice - Acts as the hearty foundation; opt for pre-cooked or frozen varieties for effortless preparation.
Prepared Pesto - Brings a rich, herby flavor; look for high-quality options like Costco's Kirkland brand.

For the Accents

Lemon Juice and Zest - Brightens the dish beautifully; fresh lemons are a great budget-friendly choice.
Salt and Pepper - Essential seasonings to enhance flavor without overpowering the dish.

For the Protein

Cooked Chicken Breast - Adds protein and substance; consider using rotisserie chicken for time-saving convenience or white beans for a vegetarian option.

For the Freshness

Grape Tomatoes - Introduce freshness and a pop of color; feel free to swap with any other tomato variety if preferred.

For the Crunch

Pine Nuts - Provide a delightful crunch and richness; toast them beforehand for enhanced flavor, and consider using sunflower seeds as a nut-free alternative.

For the Drizzle (Optional)

Honey Balsamic Glaze - Adds a sweet and tangy finish when drizzled before serving; it's an optional touch that takes flavors to the next level.

How to Make Pesto Rice with Chicken

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This step sets the perfect baking environment to warm and meld the flavors of your dish.
Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and slightly browned, about 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly! Set aside.
Combine the rice, pesto, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Stir until well mixed, ensuring the rice is evenly coated in that delicious pesto goodness.
Add diced chicken and halved grape tomatoes to the bowl. Gently mix to combine, allowing those fresh flavors to mingle beautifully.
Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts on top for that irresistible crunch!
Bake uncovered for 15 minutes or until heated through and slightly golden. You'll know it's done when it's bubbly and smells amazing!
Serve with a drizzle of honey balsamic glaze if desired, adding that sweet tang to elevate your dish.

Optional: Garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Pesto Rice with Chicken

Toast with Care: Don't rush to toast the pine nuts. Keep them moving in the skillet to prevent burning, which can ruin the flavor.
Rice Options: For an easy dinner recipe, using pre-cooked or frozen brown rice significantly cuts down on prep time, making your weekdays easier.
Juicy Tomatoes: Use ripe grape tomatoes for juiciness and flavor; if unavailable, substitute with diced regular tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a twist.
Vegan Variation: Consider replacing chicken with chickpeas or other white beans to create a nourishing vegetarian-friendly meal that still satisfies.
Balanced Flavoring: Adjust salt and pepper to taste after mixing everything. It's always easier to add a little more if needed, but hard to fix if over-seasoned.

Pesto Rice Variations

Get ready to personalize your dish and delight your taste buds in new ways!

Quinoa Base: Swap out brown rice for quinoa to make this dish lighter and boost protein content.
Cauliflower Rice: Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that adds a nice texture without losing flavor.
Creamy Twist: Stir in a bit of cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a creamy finish that elevates the dish's richness.
Veggie Power: Add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to pump up your veggie intake and add wonderful color.
Shrimp Option: For a seafood twist, replace chicken with sautéed shrimp, providing a fresh, coastal flavor.
Nut-Free Delight: If nut allergies are a concern, skip the pine nuts and sprinkle sunflower seeds for a crunchy finish.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce before baking to give your dish an exciting heat boost!
Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, right before serving for a burst of freshness.

Make Ahead Options

These Pesto Rice with Chicken, Tomatoes, and Pine Nuts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the rice and mix it with pesto, lemon juice, and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can cook the chicken and chop the tomatoes up to 3 days ahead-just keep them stored separately in the fridge to prevent moisture from softening the tomatoes. When you're ready to serve, simply combine all the components, sprinkle the toasted pine nuts on top, and bake for 15 minutes. This way, you'll enjoy quick, wholesome meals that taste just as delicious as if made fresh!

What to Serve with Pesto Rice with Chicken, Tomatoes, and Pine Nuts?

When gathering around the dinner table, it helps to complement your meal with delightful sides that enhance every bite of this vibrant dish.

Crispy Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery crunch of garlic bread pairs perfectly, offering a delightful contrast to the creamy pesto rice. It's the ultimate comfort food addition to complete your experience.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with a mix of greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch, balancing the richness of the pesto rice beautifully. The crispness of the vegetables brightens every mouthful.
Sautéed Spinach with Lemon: This easy side offers a nutritious burst of flavor; the lemon brightens up the sautéed spinach, making it a delightful contrast to the nutty rice dish.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables adds vibrant color and earthy flavors, complementing the pesto's richness. Consider bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for a tasty touch.
Honey Balsamic Glaze: Drizzling a bit more of this glaze on your dish or sides infuses an extra layer of sweetness and tang that enhances the meal. It's a secret weapon for transforming flavors!
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with this dish, enhancing the herbaceous notes of the pesto while keeping the dining experience light and enjoyable.

By adding these thoughtful accompaniments, you're sure to create a wholesome meal that's as satisfying as it is delicious!

Storage Tips for Pesto Rice

Fridge: Store leftover pesto rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Transfer to a freezer-safe container, ensuring it's airtight to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the pesto rice overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Serving Ideas: For a quick meal on busy days, consider pairing the reheated pesto rice with a fresh side salad, enhancing your overall dining experience.

Pesto Rice with Chicken, Tomatoes, and Pine Nuts Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When picking grape tomatoes, look for those that are firm with glossy skin-if you see dark spots all over, it's a sign they are overripe. For basil in the pesto, fresh is best! If you're opting for store-bought, a good quality brand like Costco's Kirkland pesto is a fantastic choice, as it balances flavor and cost.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover Pesto Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before sealing to help maintain freshness. If you want to prep meals in advance, place servings in individual containers for easy reheating throughout the week.

Can I freeze Pesto Rice with Chicken?
Absolutely! This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. First, allow it to cool, then transfer your Pesto Rice into a freezer-safe container, making sure it's airtight to avoid freezer burn. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave with a splash of water for moisture.

What can I do if the pine nuts are burning while toasting?
If your pine nuts are browning too quickly, it's an excellent idea to lower the heat slightly or shift the pan to a cooler part of the burner. Watch them closely; it only takes a minute to go from perfectly toasted to burnt! You could even toast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway.

Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly, and what substitutions can I make?
Yes, very! To create a vegetarian Pesto Rice version, simply replace the cooked chicken with a cup of canned white beans or chickpeas. You could also add more veggies, like sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers. The dish remains just as satisfying, packed with protein and fiber!

How long does the dish last when stored in the fridge or freezer?
You can enjoy your stored Pesto Rice with Chicken for a total of up to 3 days in the fridge and up to 2 months in the freezer. Just remember to keep it sealed airtight to keep all the aromatic flavors intact! And be sure to visually check each time you reheat to ensure freshness.