Print

Creamy Pesto Chicken

Creamy Pesto Chicken
Print Recipe

Creamy Pesto Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish combining tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts with a luscious, herb-packed basil pesto sauce and a creamy blend of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. This quick and simple recipe creates a smooth and indulgent sauce that coats every bite, perfect for a weeknight meal or an impressive dinner. The vibrant flavors, minimal ingredients, and versatility make it a favorite that pairs well with pasta, rice, or fresh vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Sauce

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish (Optional)

  • Fresh basil leaves, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Prepare the Creamy Pesto Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic. Lower the heat slightly and add the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes smooth and creamy.
  4. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the creamy pesto sauce over them, and let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Finish with freshly chopped basil leaves if desired, and serve immediately for maximum flavor and warmth.

Notes

  • Pat chicken dry to achieve a golden crust when sautéing.
  • Use fresh or freshly opened pesto for enhanced flavor.
  • Simmer sauce gently to prevent curdling and maintain creaminess.
  • Adjust sauce consistency by adding more cream or a splash of chicken broth if needed.
  • Serve immediately as the sauce thickens when cooled.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy pesto chicken, chicken pesto recipe, easy dinner, basil pesto chicken, gluten free chicken, creamy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/creamy-pesto-chicken/