When I first tried this Creamy Pesto Chicken, I was amazed at how such a simple dish could look so elegant and taste divine. The juicy chicken, creamy pesto sauce, and burst of fresh tomatoes come together so perfectly.
This recipe is my go-to for a cozy dinner that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to make. Plus, it pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even some crusty bread to soak up all that rich sauce. Trust me, you’re going to fall in love with every bite of it!
Credit: jocooks
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.3 lb.): Filleting or pounding them evenly ensures quicker and uniform cooking.
- 1/8 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp pepper: Adds simple seasoning to highlight the chicken’s natural flavor.
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided: One tablespoon for cooking the chicken and the other for sautéing the garlic and tomatoes.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced garlic intensifies the aromatic flavors.
- 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved: Their natural sweetness balances the richness of the sauce. Avoid using canned tomatoes for the best texture.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Brings that luxurious, creamy base to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup pesto sauce: Both store-bought and homemade pesto work, but homemade basil pesto offers an unbeatable freshness.
Note: This recipe yields enough for 4 servings. Feel free to scale up ingredients for a larger crowd!
Variations
Want to tweak this Creamy Pesto Chicken to suit your taste or dietary needs? Here are a few variations to try:
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a plant-based version.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Toss in spinach, artichokes, or steamed broccoli to add a healthy touch.
- Cheese-Lovers’ Delight: Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top before serving.
- Flavor Twist: Swap classic basil pesto for a sun-dried tomato or kale pesto for a unique spin.
You can also enjoy similar chicken and broccoli dishes if you’re into healthy, protein-packed meals.
Cooking Time
This dish is wonderfully quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Cutting board and knife: For preparing the chicken and halving the tomatoes.
- Large skillet: The ideal pan for searing the chicken and making the sauce.
- Tongs: To easily flip the chicken while cooking.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for sautéing ingredients and stirring the sauce.
How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken?
Prepare the Chicken
Fillet the chicken breasts lengthwise into thinner layers or pound them to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking. Season both sides with a pinch of salt and pepper for a simple but effective flavor boost.
Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a clean plate.
Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes
Turn the heat down slightly and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and halved grape tomatoes. Cook for around 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, creating the base for the sauce.
Create the Creamy Pesto Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the pesto. Mix well until it becomes a silky, fragrant sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. This step adds the rich, creamy flavor that elevates the whole dish.
Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, turning each piece to coat it in the creamy sauce. Simmer the chicken for another 3-5 minutes, letting it soak up the flavors of the sauce. Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
Credit: jocooks
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
I’ve made this dish plenty of times, and here are some tips to make it absolutely perfect:
- Slice the chicken thinly before serving if you’re making it for guests. It looks professional and makes plating easier.
- Using fresh pesto makes a big difference, especially if it’s basil season. The flavor will be more vibrant.
- Always sauté the garlic first to mellow its sharpness and enhance its sweetness.
- Don’t skimp on the cream. While substitutes work, traditional heavy cream adds a richness that’s hard to beat.
- Double the sauce if you’re serving this over pasta or rice. Everyone loves extra sauce to drizzle!
How to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken?
This dish already looks stunning on its own, but a thoughtful presentation can elevate it further. Serve the chicken and sauce over fettuccine, linguine, or even a mound of fluffy white jasmine rice. Garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley for extra flavor and color. A few slices of warm, crusty garlic bread on the side will complete the meal and offer a delightful way to mop up every last drop of sauce.
For sides, go for a crisp, fresh salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette or lightly steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. Their freshness complements this rich and creamy dish beautifully. Or enjoy your leftovers alongside this flavorful one pan balsamic chicken for variety throughout the week.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutrition for a single serving of this dish:
- Calories: 415
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fat: 28g
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This dish is a bit tricky to freeze due to the creamy sauce, but if you must, freeze the chicken without the sauce and prepare fresh sauce when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This creamy pesto chicken dish is bound to become a favorite, and here’s why:
- Quick and Easy: It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner with minimal prep work.
- Versatile: Pair it with pasta, rice, or veggies for a complete meal.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or spices to tailor it to your taste.
- Impressive Yet Simple: It looks gourmet but is totally beginner-friendly.
- Packed with Flavor: The pesto and cream create a dynamite combination that’s irresistible.
This Creamy Pesto Chicken is deliciously effortless and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again! For more ideas like this, browse our range of chicken recipes.