Garlicky Trader Joe's Chicken Pesto Bowl

Name: Garlicky Trader Joe's Chicken Pesto Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, diced; 1 cup Trader Joe's basil pesto; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups spinach; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked quinoa or rice, for serving

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love this Garlicky Trader Joe's Chicken Pesto Bowl! The combination of tender chicken, vibrant pesto, and fresh vegetables creates a delightful dish that's perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. I often whip this up on busy weeknights, and it never fails to impress. Plus, using ready-made pesto from Trader Joe's cuts down on prep time without sacrificing flavor. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a regular in your meal rotation.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-12T09:18:18.613Z

When I first tried making a chicken pesto bowl, I wanted to ensure that it wasn’t just another bland meal. I decided to add garlic oil to really elevate the flavor profile. This combination turned out to be a game-changer! The garlic infuses throughout the chicken, enhancing the overall taste and making each bite burst with flavor. For extra freshness, I throw in some cherry tomatoes and spinach, which pair beautifully with the rich pesto.

During my experimentation, I discovered that using a high-quality store-bought pesto provides that homemade touch without all the hassle. The key is to sauté the chicken until golden brown, which gives it a nice texture and locks in moisture. This approach not only speeds up the cooking process but also keeps the chicken juicy. You'll love how convenient and delicious this dish is!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Delicious garlicky flavor that elevates the dish
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Healthy and hearty, packed with protein and veggies

Key Techniques for Perfect Chicken

When cooking the chicken, it's essential to start with a preheated skillet. Medium heat is ideal; this allows the chicken to sear quickly, developing a golden crust that enhances flavor. If your chicken tends to stick, ensure the skillet is well-oiled, and give it time to brown before attempting to flip. You should see clear, golden edges before deciding it’s time to turn the pieces. This step locks in moisture, keeping the chicken tender and juicy.

Another important technique is to add the minced garlic after the chicken has browned. Garlic can burn quickly, leading to a bitter taste if added too early. By stirring it in for just the last 2 minutes of cooking, you’ll release its aromatic properties while maintaining a slight crunch, balancing beautifully with the tender chicken.

Ingredient Spotlight: Pesto Variations

While I love using Trader Joe's basil pesto for its convenience and flavor, feel free to experiment with different varieties. You could substitute with sun-dried tomato pesto for a tangy twist or a vegan basil pesto if you're looking to cut dairy. Homemade pesto can also elevate this dish—blend fresh basil, nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan for a personal touch. Each variation will impart its unique characteristics, enriching the overall depth of flavor in the bowl.

Don’t underestimate the spinach and cherry tomatoes! The spinach adds a nutritious boost, wilting down significantly but retaining a bright color that enhances presentation. If you want to add more vibrant color and nutrients, consider substituting with kale or adding bell peppers for extra crunch and sweetness.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Pesto Bowl

2 chicken breasts, diced
1 cup Trader Joe's basil pesto
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups spinach
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked quinoa or rice, for serving

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, until browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Pesto and Veggies

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the basil pesto, spinach, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the chicken pesto mixture over a bed of cooked quinoa or rice. Garnish with extra garlic and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Enjoy your freshly made Garlicky Trader Joe's Chicken Pesto Bowl!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice before serving. It brightens up the dish beautifully.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Garlicky Chicken Pesto Bowl is an excellent candidate for meal prepping. You can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember to add the pesto the day you plan to eat it to preserve its freshness and flavor. It will stay good for about 3-4 days when properly stored.

For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken mixture on its own without the pesto. Transfer it into freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then simply reheat it on the stovetop before adding the fresh pesto to bring everything back to life.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your chicken pesto bowl over cooked quinoa or rice, but you can also try it with pasta or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. To elevate the flavors, consider a sprinkle of Parmesan or feta cheese, which adds a creamy tang that complements the garlicky pesto beautifully. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens all the flavors and gives it a refreshing twist.

If you’re looking for extra protein, feel free to top your bowl with a fried or poached egg. The yolk will add a rich creaminess that melds perfectly with the texture of the pesto and chicken. An optional side of crusty bread can also help soak up any leftover pesto sauce on your plate, making it a hearty meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Using store-bought pesto saves time and is just as delicious.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can easily substitute grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ Can I make this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and veggies in advance and reheat them when ready to serve.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you serve it with gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice, it's gluten-free.