Garlic Chicken & Roasted Potatoes with Creamy Pesto Sauce

A Mediterranean-inspired comfort meal with juicy chicken, crispy potatoes, and a creamy basil twist.

Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

Garlic-Oregano Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for freshness)
• Roasted Potatoes
• 2 medium potatoes, cubed
• 1½ tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Herbed Rice

• 1 cup basmati or jasmine rice
• 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• 1 tsp dried dill or basil
• Salt, to taste
• Creamy Basil Pesto Sauce
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• A pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

1. Slice the chicken breasts into strips.

2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add lemon juice if using.

3. Toss the chicken in the marinade and let sit for at least 15 minutes.

4. Pan-sear in a hot skillet over medium heat until golden and cooked through (about 4–5 minutes per side). Set aside.

2. Roast the Potatoes:

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).

2. Toss cubed potatoes with olive oil, paprika, thyme or rosemary, salt, and pepper.

3. Spread on a baking tray and roast for 25–30 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway.

3. Cook the Rice:

1. Rinse the rice until the water runs clear.

2. In a pot, bring 2 cups water or broth to a boil, add rice and a pinch of salt.

3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and water is absorbed (about 12–15 minutes).

4. Stir in chopped parsley and dried dill/basil before serving.

4. Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, pesto, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.

2. Stir until smooth. Chill until ready to serve.

To Serve:

Spoon the herbed rice onto plates.

Top with garlic chicken slices and a side of crispy roasted potatoes.

Drizzle or serve the creamy pesto sauce on top or on the side.