Description
Creamy Pesto Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, flavorful pesto and cream sauce, complemented by juicy grape tomatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting family meal, this recipe combines savory and fresh elements for a satisfying plate.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
1. 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.3 lb.)
2. 1/8 teaspoon salt
3. 1/8 teaspoon pepper
For Cooking
4. 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
5. 2 cloves garlic, minced
6. 1 pint grape tomatoes, sliced in half
Sauce
7. 1/2 cup heavy cream
8. 1/4 cup pesto
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Fillet the chicken breasts into two thinner pieces or pound them to an even thickness, then cut each into halves to make four pieces. Season both sides with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and swirl to coat. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (total about 7-10 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: Lower heat to medium-low. Add remaining olive oil, then minced garlic and halved grape tomatoes. Sauté for approximately 5 minutes until tomatoes soften and release juices.
- Prepare the sauce: Stir in heavy cream and pesto into the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring to combine. Taste and adjust salt or pepper as desired.
- Combine and simmer: Return cooked chicken to the skillet, turning to coat with sauce. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust pesto quantity for a more or less pronounced basil flavor.
- Can substitute chicken with turkey or even firm tofu for different variations.
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F) before serving.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 33 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
