Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this Creamy Pesto Chicken recipe! With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The combination of creamy pesto sauce and juicy chicken creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
This recipe comes together in just a few easy steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it with your favorite side dishes or ingredients.

Ingredient Notes:

Boneless, skinless chicken breast: Provides a lean source of protein for this dish.
Salt and pepper: Enhances the flavor of the chicken and sauce.

Olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken and sautéing the garlic.
Garlic: Adds a savory depth of flavor to the dish.
Grape tomatoes: Bring a burst of freshness to the creamy sauce.

Heavy cream: Creates a rich and velvety texture for the sauce.
Pesto: Infuses the dish with the vibrant flavors of basil and pine nuts.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken until browned and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add more olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.

Add grape tomatoes and cook until they start to soften.
Stir in heavy cream and pesto, then return the chicken to the skillet.
Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.

Helpful Tips:

To elevate the dish, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Serve the Creamy Pesto Chicken over pasta or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
For a lighter version, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Use homemade pesto for the freshest flavor.
For added depth, marinate the chicken in pesto before cooking.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and herbaceous aroma.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this Creamy Pesto Chicken with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. For drinks, a glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing lemonade would complement the dish perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftover Creamy Pesto Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor.

Can I freeze the Creamy Pesto Chicken?
While you can freeze the dish, the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon reheating.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the heavy cream?
You can use coconut cream or a non-dairy milk, but the sauce may be thinner in consistency.

Conclusion:

Now that you have all the tips and tricks for making this Creamy Pesto Chicken, it’s time to get cooking! Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish with your loved ones and don’t forget to share your feedback. Happy cooking!

Creamy Pesto Chicken

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Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins

Total Time: 30 mins
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main-course

Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Creamy Pesto Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken breast with a flavorful pesto cream sauce. The dish is further enhanced with the addition of garlic and juicy grape tomatoes, creating a creamy and savory meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 1.3 lb. total)
1/8 tsp salt

1/8 tsp pepper
2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
2 cloves garlic, minced

1 pint grape tomatoes, sliced in half
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup pesto

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Instructions

Season Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Cook Chicken: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and cook chicken until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. Cook until tomatoes soften. Stir in heavy cream and pesto.

Combine: Return chicken to the skillet and simmer in the sauce for a few minutes.
Serve: Serve the creamy pesto chicken hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.