Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and heart-healthy Low Sodium Chicken Pesto recipe, designed to deliver maximum taste without the excess salt. Tender grilled chicken breasts are seasoned with a salt-free multi-purpose seasoning for a burst of savory goodness, while a vibrant homemade pesto made with fresh basil, unsalted pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, and a hint of lemon ties the dish together beautifully. Perfect for those watching their sodium intake, this recipe boasts a quick prep time, making it ideal for busy families or anyone craving a wholesome, delicious meal in under 40 minutes. Serve this light yet satisfying dish with your favorite veggies or a side of whole-grain pasta for a well-rounded dinner your taste buds will thank you for!
Preheat your grill or a grill pan to medium-high heat.
In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, unsalted pine nuts, garlic cloves, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and black pepper.
Pulse the mixture a few times to combine.
While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in 0.5 cups of extra-virgin olive oil until the pesto is smooth.
Add lemon juice and pulse the mixture a couple more times to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Rub the chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle the salt-free multi-purpose seasoning evenly on both sides.
Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Slice the chicken into strips and serve with a generous spoonful of the homemade pesto on top.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a few shavings of Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve immediately.
Calories |
2328 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 194.9 g | 250% | |
| Saturated Fat | 35.7 g | 178% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 334 mg | 111% | |
| Sodium | 1164 mg | 51% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 12.3 g | 4% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.9 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.8 g | ||
| Protein | 135.2 g | 270% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.6 mcg | 3% | |
| Calcium | 757 mg | 58% | |
| Iron | 5.7 mg | 32% | |
| Potassium | 450 mg | 10% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.