This Pesto Chicken Quiche is a delightful fusion of creamy eggs, savory chicken, and the bold, herby punch of pesto. Baked into a flaky pie crust and layered with cheese, this dish is ideal for a hearty lunch or an impressive brunch centerpiece. It’s protein-rich and packed with flavor, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests with refined yet familiar taste preferences.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
• 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup baby spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup half-and-half (or equal parts milk and cream)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out and place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Press gently into the dish and crimp the edges. Poke the bottom with a fork several times to prevent bubbling.
3. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 2–3 minutes to warm through. Set aside to cool slightly.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
5. Spread the pesto evenly over the bottom of the prepared pie crust.
6. Layer in the chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach.
7. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
8. Slowly pour the egg mixture over the filling, making sure it fills in all gaps and distributes evenly.
9. Place the quiche on a baking sheet and bake for 35–40 minutes or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
10. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts 

• Calories: 310
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 150mg
• Sodium: 430mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 13g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 17g
• Calcium: 200mg
• Iron: 1.5mg

Flavor Profile of Pesto Chicken Quiche

The Pesto Chicken Quiche offers a vibrant, savory profile with herbaceous undertones. The basil pesto is the star, contributing an aromatic richness thanks to its blend of basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan. Paired with tender chunks of cooked chicken, the filling becomes hearty and satisfying. The cheeses add a creamy, nutty dimension, while the sun-dried tomatoes introduce a tangy sweetness that balances the savory components. Every bite is a layered experience—flaky crust, velvety custard, and bursts of bold, fresh flavors.

Nutritional Value and Health Benefits

This quiche is protein-rich, making it an excellent option for individuals looking to maintain muscle mass or balance macronutrient intake. Chicken provides lean protein, while eggs contribute additional protein along with essential vitamins such as B12 and D. Spinach adds a nutritional boost with iron, folate, and antioxidants, and the pesto introduces heart-healthy fats from olive oil and nuts. Despite the cheese content, the overall nutrient density of the quiche makes it a wholesome dish when consumed in moderation.

Ideal Occasions for Serving

Pesto Chicken Quiche is incredibly versatile and fits a variety of occasions. It’s perfect for brunch gatherings, potlucks, and light lunches. Its sophisticated flavors make it suitable for more formal affairs like bridal showers or holiday breakfasts, yet it’s comforting and easy enough for a casual weekend family meal. Because it can be served warm or at room temperature, it’s also great for buffet-style meals or outdoor picnics.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Tips

Serve each slice with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to enhance the herbal notes of the pesto. For brunch, complement the quiche with roasted potatoes or fresh fruit. Garnishing each slice with a fresh basil leaf or a light sprinkle of Parmesan enhances visual appeal and gives a nod to the dish’s pesto base. When serving guests, consider baking the quiche in a tart pan with a removable bottom to achieve a clean, elegant edge.

Possible Ingredient Variations

This recipe is highly customizable. Swap the chicken for turkey, ham, or even roasted vegetables to create a vegetarian version. The pesto can be varied as well—try sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto for a twist. You can experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, goat cheese, or feta for alternative flavor profiles. For a crustless, low-carb version, simply pour the filling into a greased baking dish and bake until set.

Dietary Adaptations

For a gluten-free quiche, use a gluten-free pie crust or skip the crust entirely. To reduce calories and fat, opt for reduced-fat cheeses and use milk instead of half-and-half. For dairy-free needs, plant-based cheese and coconut milk or almond milk can be used, though they may slightly alter the texture and flavor. These adaptations make the recipe more accessible to people with dietary restrictions while still maintaining the essence of the dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This quiche can be fully prepared and baked up to two days in advance. Once cooled, store it tightly covered in the refrigerator. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes or until warmed through. Leftovers keep well for up to four days, and the quiche can also be frozen for up to two months. When freezing, wrap tightly in plastic and foil, and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Pairing Ideas for Complete Meals

Pairing this quiche with complementary sides creates a balanced and memorable meal. Light vegetable soups like tomato basil or roasted red pepper make excellent pairings. For beverages, a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a citrusy sparkling water enhances the herbal and creamy notes of the dish. At brunch, it pairs well with herbal teas, mimosas, or cold-brew coffee to offer a full, satisfying spread.

Why It’s a Great Meal Prep Option

The structure and flavor stability of this quiche make it ideal for weekly meal prep. It reheats beautifully without becoming watery or rubbery, and it holds its shape well for packed lunches. Slice it into portions and store in airtight containers for grab-and-go meals. It also serves as a convenient breakfast option, providing protein and fats to start the day with lasting energy.

How It Compares to Traditional Quiche

Traditional quiches like Quiche Lorraine rely heavily on cream, bacon, and nutty cheeses. The Pesto Chicken Quiche introduces a more modern, Mediterranean twist, replacing pork with lean poultry and incorporating pesto as a flavorful binding element. It feels lighter and fresher while still being filling. The use of sun-dried tomatoes and spinach gives it a nutritious edge, making it a contemporary take on a French classic.

Tips for Perfect Texture and Consistency

Achieving the perfect quiche texture requires balancing the custard ratio and baking time. Using four eggs to one cup of dairy creates a stable, silky custard. Avoid overbaking, which can cause a dry or rubbery consistency. The center should be set but slightly wobbly when you remove it from the oven—it will continue to firm up as it cools. Letting it rest for 10 minutes before slicing helps maintain its shape and allows the flavors to settle.

Seasonal Ingredient Substitutions

Depending on the time of year, you can adjust the vegetables to highlight seasonal produce. In summer, add zucchini or fresh corn for a burst of sweetness. In fall, roasted butternut squash or mushrooms bring a heartier feel. Winter greens like kale can replace spinach, while springtime herbs such as chives or dill can be added for extra freshness. These seasonal swaps allow the recipe to evolve throughout the year while keeping the base intact.

Cultural and Culinary Inspiration

This dish takes its primary inspiration from both French and Italian culinary traditions. The structure and technique of quiche come from French cuisine, while the pesto brings a bold Italian influence, traditionally made in Liguria. Combining these elements showcases how cross-cultural cooking can create harmonious, elevated meals that appeal to a wide range of palates. It celebrates comfort food with a sophisticated twist.

Conclusion

The Pesto Chicken Quiche is a standout dish that masterfully combines rich flavor, satisfying texture, and nutritional balance. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual family lunch, a brunch party, or your weekly meal prep, it delivers both convenience and gourmet appeal. Its versatility in ingredients, ability to adapt to dietary needs, and elegant presentation make it a reliable favorite for all occasions. With its protein-rich filling, herbaceous pesto flair, and flaky crust, this quiche proves that wholesome food can also be deeply delicious and effortlessly stylish.