Your Cool Home is supported by its readers. Please assume all links are affiliate links. If you purchase something from one of our links, we make a small commission from Amazon. Thank you!
What to serve with basil pesto chicken is one of those questions that can turn a simple weeknight dinner into something truly special.
The best sides for basil pesto chicken are light, fresh, and vibrant so they complement the herbaceous, garlicky flavors of the pesto without overpowering them.
You want dishes that soak up that gorgeous green sauce, balance the richness of the chicken, and add texture and color to your plate.
In this post, we’ll explore what to serve with basil pesto chicken, from classic Italian pairings to quick and easy sides that make the meal complete.
Let’s dig into the delicious possibilities you can start making tonight.
Why Choosing the Right Sides for Basil Pesto Chicken Matters
When you’re deciding what to serve with basil pesto chicken, think about the flavor profile of the dish itself.
Basil pesto is bold, with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil creating a rich and aromatic sauce.
Right sides for basil pesto chicken should either mirror that freshness or provide a neutral, starchy base to balance things out.
The right side dish can elevate your basil pesto chicken from a simple protein to a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
1. The Classic: Pasta with Basil Pesto Chicken
If you’re wondering what to serve with basil pesto chicken, pasta is the most iconic answer.
Tossing your basil pesto chicken with pasta is a match made in heaven because the noodles catch every bit of that herby sauce.
Penne, fusilli, or trofie are perfect choices for holding pesto, while spaghetti or linguine work beautifully too.
Cook your pasta al dente, reserve some pasta water, and toss it with your chicken and extra pesto for a creamy, cohesive dish.
Add a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil on top, and you have a full Italian-inspired feast.
2. Light and Zesty: Lemon Butter Green Beans
Another fantastic option for what to serve with basil pesto chicken is a bright, tangy vegetable side.
Lemon butter green beans bring a pop of acidity that cuts through the richness of the pesto beautifully.
Steam or sauté fresh green beans until crisp-tender, then toss them with butter, lemon zest, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
The citrus notes complement the basil and garlic without competing for attention.
This side dish is quick, healthy, and makes your basil pesto chicken plate look vibrant and colorful.
3. Crusty Bread for Soaking Up Every Drop
If you’re looking for what to serve with basil pesto chicken that’s simple yet satisfying, crusty bread is a winner.
A warm baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough loaf is perfect for mopping up extra pesto sauce from your plate.
Slice the bread, toast it lightly with a brush of olive oil, and serve it alongside your chicken.
This side add texture and makes the meal feel more complete, especially if you’re serving pesto chicken as a main course.
Your guests will love dipping bread into that delicious green sauce, so it’s a practical and delicious choice for what to serve with basil pesto chicken.
Fresh Salads That Pair Perfectly with Basil Pesto Chicken
A crisp salad can be the ideal answer when you’re thinking about what to serve with basil pesto chicken.
The cool, crunchy vegetables balance the warm, savory chicken and add a refreshing element to the meal.
1. Caprese Salad with Tomatoes and Mozzarella
The classic Caprese salad is a natural companion for what to serve with basil pesto chicken.
Layers of juicy tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and whole basil leaves echo the flavors in your pesto.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze and good olive oil to enhance the sweetness and acidity.
This salad is light, elegant, and doesn’t require any cooking, making it a super easy side dish.
It’s one of the best choices for basil pesto chicken because it strengthens the Italian theme beautifully.
2. Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan
Peppery arugula is another outstanding side for basil pesto chicken, as its bitterness contrasts nicely with the herbal pesto.
Toss arugula with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper, then top with shaved Parmesan.
Add some cherry tomatoes or toasted pine nuts for extra texture and flavor depth.
The simplicity of this salad lets the basil pesto chicken stay the star while still adding freshness.
This is a go-to side when you want something quick, healthy, and perfectly matched to your main dish.
Hearty Grains and Vegetables to Serve with Basil Pesto Chicken
For a more filling meal, think about what to serve with basil pesto chicken in terms of grains and roasted veggies.
These sides add substance and make the dish feel like a complete, comforting dinner.
1. Creamy Polenta or Mashed Potatoes
Creamy polenta is a wonderful base for basil pesto chicken, as its soft, buttery texture absorbs the pesto wonderfully.
Mashed potatoes are another comforting option that pairs perfectly with the sauce.
Both are neutral enough to let the basil and garlic shine while adding a rich, satisfying mouthfeel.
Spoon the chicken and some pesto over the polenta or potatoes, and you have a cozy, hearty meal.
This side dish choice for what to serve with basil pesto chicken is especially great during cooler months.
2. Roasted Vegetables with Balsamic Glaze
Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, which balances the savory pesto chicken nicely.
Zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes all roast beautifully and pair well with basil flavors.
Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F until caramelized and tender.
Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze to add a tangy-sweet contrast to the pesto.
This colorful side makes your basil pesto chicken dinner feel abundant and nutritionally balanced.
So, What to Serve with Basil Pesto Chicken?
Now you have plenty of options for what to serve with basil pesto chicken that will satisfy everyone at the table.
From classic pasta and crusty bread to fresh salads and hearty grains, there’s a side dish idea for every craving.
The best sides for basil pesto chicken are those that highlight its fresh, herby sauce while adding their own texture and flavor.
Try a few of these pairings and see which ones become your family’s favorites.
Whether you go light and zesty or hearty and comforting, the perfect side dish is just a few steps away.
So get creative, experiment with these ideas, and enjoy every delicious bite of your basil pesto chicken dinner.