Pesto Chicken Breast & Roasted Zucchini Meal Prep Bowl
Pesto-basted grilled chicken with roasted zucchini and tomatoes over whole-wheat orzo.
- Prep
- 15 min
- Cook
- 25 min
- Total
- 40 min
- Makes
- 4 bowls
Pesto does two jobs here: brushed on the chicken at the end of grilling and tossed through the orzo. Zucchini roasted at high heat browns and concentrates, so it doesn't turn watery in the fridge.
Why this recipe works
High-heat roasting drives water out of the zucchini, so it keeps its texture. Brushing pesto on only at the end keeps the basil from burning on the grill.
Ingredient notes
Whole-wheat orzo has more fiber and a nuttier taste than regular. Pesto darkens slightly over days but still tastes good.
Common mistakes
- Roasting zucchini at low heat, which steams it.
- Grilling with pesto from the start.
What to serve with it
Fresh basil or red pepper flakes.
Meal prep
Lasts 4 days.
More bowls like this
Cooking tips
Leave space between zucchini pieces on the pan. Add a squeeze of lemon when reheating.
Swaps and variations
Use regular orzo or quinoa. Use dairy-free pesto and skip the Parmesan.
Storing and reheating
Refrigerate within 2 hours for up to 4 days. Reheat to 165°F (74°C), adding a splash of water to the orzo.
Recipe
Pesto Chicken Breast & Roasted Zucchini Meal Prep Bowl
- Prep
- 15 min
- Cook
- 25 min
- Total
- 40 min
- Makes
- 4 bowls
Ingredients
You’ll need: rimmed sheet pan; grill pan; medium pot; 4 meal prep containers; instant-read thermometer
Method
-
Heat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Toss the zucchini and tomatoes with the olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon salt and roast 20 minutes, until browned.
-
Cook the orzo in salted boiling water according to the package. Drain and toss with 1/4 cup pesto and the Parmesan.
-
Season the chicken with the remaining salt. Grill on a grill pan over medium-high heat 5 to 6 minutes per side, until 165°F (74°C).
-
Brush the chicken with 2 tablespoons pesto in the last minute. Rest 5 minutes and slice.
-
Divide orzo, vegetables and chicken among 4 containers, spoon the remaining pesto over the chicken and cool before sealing.
Questions
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes.
Can I eat it cold?
Yes, like a pasta salad.
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