Easy Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they cook quickly and uniformly. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option or even use tofu for a vegetarian twist.

Pesto: Prepared basil pesto gives this dish its signature flavor. If you can’t find it or want a different flavor, try sun-dried tomato pesto or make your own using fresh basil, garlic, nuts, and olive oil.

Heavy Cream: Heavy cream creates a rich sauce, but if you need a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cornstarch to thicken. Coconut cream can also work for a dairy-free version.

Cherry Tomatoes: These add freshness and sweetness. If out of season, you can use canned diced tomatoes instead. Just be sure to drain them well before adding!

How Can I Make Sure My Sauce is Perfectly Creamy?

The secret to a creamy sauce is in the simmering process. After adding the cream and pesto, here are some tips:

• Keep the heat on medium. Too high can curdle the cream; too low will take forever to thicken.
• Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes while stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
• If the sauce gets too thick, a splash of chicken broth or a bit more cream can help get it back to your desired consistency.

With these tips, you’ll have a smooth, creamy sauce ready for your chicken!

Easy Creamy Pesto Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish

Time Estimate:

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25 minutes. It’s a quick, delicious meal that you can whip up any night of the week!

Instructions:

1. Season and Cook the Chicken

Start by generously seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the pan and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

2. Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Then, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook them for 2-3 minutes, letting them soften slightly.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the basil pesto, grated Parmesan cheese, and the optional Italian herbs. Let this delicious mixture simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken up nicely.

4. Combine and Finish

Return the chicken breasts to the pan, carefully spooning the creamy pesto sauce over them. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes, giving time for the chicken to warm back up and absorb some of that amazing flavor.

5. Garnish and Serve

Before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve the creamy pesto chicken hot, alongside pasta, rice, or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

Enjoy your rich, flavorful, and creamy pesto chicken!

FAQ for Easy Creamy Pesto Chicken

Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the quick method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour. Pat dry before seasoning and cooking.

What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk with a teaspoon of cornstarch to thicken it. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using coconut cream or almond milk with a thickening agent.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover creamy pesto chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

What Can I Serve with This Dish?

This creamy pesto chicken pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or quinoa. For a lighter option, serve it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. You can even use the sauce as a dressing for the sides!