Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh paracress leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup pine nuts
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Grill
- Food processor
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a food processor, combine paracress leaves, basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic cloves, and olive oil. Pulse until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Grill chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
5. Serve chicken breasts with paracress pesto on top.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Grill temperature: medium-high heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 30g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Paracress leaves can be substituted with arugula or watercress.
- Pine nuts can be substituted with walnuts or almonds.
Variations:
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the paracress pesto for a tangy flavor.
- Use the paracress pesto as a marinade for the chicken before grilling.
- Substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs or drumsticks.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to season the chicken breasts well with salt and pepper for maximum flavor.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
- Toast the pine nuts before adding them to the food processor for a nuttier flavor.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover chicken and pesto separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat chicken in the microwave or oven until heated through.
- Pesto can be served cold or at room temperature.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve chicken breasts on a bed of greens with a dollop of paracress pesto on top.
- Garnish with fresh paracress leaves or chopped pine nuts.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted asparagus
- Grilled zucchini
- Caesar salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the chicken breasts are too thick, butterfly them before grilling for even cooking.
- If the pesto is too thick, add more olive oil to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked.
Food history:
- Paracress is a type of herb that is native to South America and is known for its numbing and tingling sensation when eaten.
Flavor profiles:
- The paracress pesto has a slightly peppery and nutty flavor, while the grilled chicken is juicy and savory.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.
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