This Easy Creamy Pesto Chicken is a tasty dish you’ll love! It’s made with tender chicken and a rich, creamy pesto sauce that makes every bite burst with flavor.
This meal is a breeze to whip up on a busy night. I like to serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Perfect comfort food! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you want a quicker option, use thin chicken cutlets. Alternatively, thighs work well for more flavor and juiciness.
Pesto: Fresh basil pesto offers the best flavor, but store-bought is a quick time-saver. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try a nut-based pesto instead. You can even use sun-dried tomato pesto for a twist!
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess, but you can swap it for half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option. If lactose-free is a must, find lactose-free cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness and color, but if they’re not available, diced regular tomatoes will do. You can also add a handful of spinach for extra nutrition!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your chicken tender and juicy is key. Start by seasoning well, then follow these steps:
- Heat your skillet before adding oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook on medium heat so the chicken browns without burning. If you choose thicker breasts, you may need to adjust the cooking time.
- Use a meat thermometer: when it reaches 165°F (75°C), it’s ready!
Let the chicken rest a couple of minutes after cooking to hold its juices better. You’ll enjoy every flavorful bite! 😊
Easy Creamy Pesto Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and approximately 15 minutes cooking the chicken and making the creamy sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt and pepper. This enhances the flavor of the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. To ensure they’re fully cooked, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). When done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it is fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Add Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook them for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and burst slightly.
5. Create the Sauce:
Now, stir in the basil pesto along with the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to create a creamy sauce. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens just a bit.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce and tomatoes over the top. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through and the flavors meld beautifully.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, garnish the dish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the creamy pesto chicken hot, over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Enjoy your delightful homemade meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken thighs for a juicier option. You can also try pork or even shrimp for a fun twist on the flavors.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and reheat before serving for the best results.
