Pesto Chicken Breast

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Common questions

Is Pesto Chicken Breast healthy?

Pesto Chicken Breast scores 75/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This product features high-quality ingredients such as boneless skinless chicken breast and extra virgin olive oil, which are minimally processed and provide essential nutrients.

How processed is Pesto Chicken Breast?

Pesto Chicken Breast is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Pesto Chicken Breast's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Boneless skinless chicken breast, Basil, Extra virgin olive oil count in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Pesto Chicken Breast

Trader Joe's
75 Good

Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 10
Harmful ingredients 0
Owned by Trader Joe's
Category Meat and Seafood
Summary

This product features high-quality ingredients such as boneless skinless chicken breast and extra virgin olive oil, which are minimally processed and provide essential nutrients. The inclusion of fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley adds flavor and potential health benefits without unnecessary additives. Despite being processed, the clean ingredient list and absence of harmful additives allow it to achieve a high score within its processing category.

Key ingredients 13

Extra virgin olive oil
Very Good

High-quality monounsaturated fat with anti-inflammatory properties. Contains antioxidants that support heart health. Cold-pressed extraction preserves beneficial compounds.

Benefits

Rich in monounsaturated fats that support heart health and provide anti-inflammatory properties. Contains antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols that may reduce oxidative stress.

See more about Extra virgin olive oil →
Boneless skinless chicken breast
Good

A high-quality source of lean protein with essential amino acids. It is minimally processed and provides nutrients necessary for muscle growth and repair. Compared to processed meats, it has lower sodium and fat content.

Benefits

Provides a rich source of protein essential for muscle maintenance and overall health. Low in fat and calories, making it suitable for weight management.

Basil
Good

A fresh herb that provides antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. It is minimally processed and adds flavor without calories. Basil is known for its potential health benefits, including supporting digestion.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and may help reduce inflammation. Enhances flavor naturally without added calories.

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Black pepper
Good

A spice that adds flavor and contains piperine, which may enhance nutrient absorption. It is minimally processed and used in small amounts. Black pepper has potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Benefits

May enhance nutrient absorption and provide antioxidant benefits.

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Oregano
Good

A herb known for its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. It is minimally processed and adds flavor without calories. Oregano contains compounds like thymol and carvacrol that may support immune health.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and may support immune health.

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Onion
Good

A vegetable that provides flavor and nutrients like vitamin C and fiber. It is minimally processed and contains antioxidants such as quercetin. Onions may support heart health and have anti-inflammatory effects.

Benefits

Provides antioxidants and nutrients that support heart health and immune function.

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Garlic
Good

A flavorful bulb known for its potential health benefits, including antimicrobial and cardiovascular support. It is minimally processed and contains allicin, which may have health-promoting properties. Garlic is often used to enhance flavor naturally.

Benefits

May support cardiovascular health and provide antimicrobial benefits.

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Parsley
Good

A fresh herb that provides vitamins A, C, and K. It is minimally processed and adds flavor without calories. Parsley may support bone health and has antioxidant properties.

Benefits

Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, supporting overall health.

See more about Parsley →
Walnuts
Good

A nut rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. It is minimally processed and provides healthy fats that support heart health. Walnuts may also improve brain function and reduce inflammation.

Risks

Potential allergen for individuals with nut allergies.

Benefits

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, supporting heart and brain health.

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Milk
Good

Whole dairy ingredient.

Risks

May cause digestive issues for individuals with lactose intolerance.

Benefits

Provides calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle function.

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Pesto sauce
Neutral

A flavorful sauce typically made from basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It can be high in calories and fat due to the oil and cheese content. The quality of pesto can vary based on the ingredients used.

Risks

May contain high levels of sodium and fat, which could be a concern if consumed in large quantities.

Benefits

Adds flavor and contains healthy fats from olive oil and nutrients from basil.

Parmesan cheese
Neutral

A hard cheese that provides calcium and protein. It is aged and contains beneficial bacteria from cheese cultures. However, it can be high in sodium and saturated fat.

Risks

High sodium and saturated fat content may be a concern for those with heart conditions or hypertension.

Benefits

Provides calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle function.

See more about Parmesan cheese →
Salt
Neutral

Common seasoning used to enhance flavor. It is a refined product without additional minerals. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues like hypertension.

Risks

High sodium intake is associated with increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

Benefits

Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function in the body.

See more about Salt →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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