Creamy Pesto Chicken: 5-Star Flavor Quick Dinner

Name: Creamy Pesto Chicken: 5-Star Flavor Quick Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 cup prepared pesto; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Optional: Fresh basil for garnish

by Jannet Lisa

11 de August de 2025

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Creamy pesto chicken has become my absolute go-to for a weeknight meal that feels incredibly luxurious. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of fresh basil and garlic filling my kitchen was pure magic. This recipe is so simple, making it the most easy creamy pesto chicken I’ve ever whipped up, and it’s perfect for those evenings when you need a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Seriously, this quick creamy pesto chicken dinner will change your weeknights forever. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pesto Chicken

An incredibly rich and satisfying taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Super fast prep and cook times, making it an ideal quick creamy pesto chicken dinner.
A surprisingly lighter option when you use half-and-half, offering a healthier take on comfort food.
Remarkably budget-friendly, using common ingredients that don’t break the bank.
A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters adore, making mealtime stress-free.
This chicken with creamy pesto sauce is so versatile, pairing well with almost anything.
You’ll discover a truly flavorful creamy pesto chicken thanks to the vibrant basil and garlic.
Minimal clean-up with this mostly one-pan wonder!

Ingredients for Creamy Pesto Chicken

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making the most delicious creamy pesto chicken you’ve ever tasted. This recipe relies on pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create a truly decadent pesto chicken cream sauce. For a delightful twist, consider adding a clove of minced garlic to the sauce if you’re aiming for a creamy garlic pesto chicken flavor profile.

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking
1 tbsp olive oil – a good quality extra virgin olive oil is best
1/2 cup prepared pesto – store-bought or homemade, your favorite kind!
1 cup heavy cream – this is key for that luscious, creamy texture
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – freshly grated melts best
1/4 tsp salt – adjust to your taste
1/4 tsp black pepper – freshly ground adds more flavor
Optional: Fresh basil for garnish – for a pop of color and fresh basil aroma

How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken

Let’s dive into the simple steps for this amazing skillet creamy pesto chicken. It’s truly one of the easiest ways to get a restaurant-quality meal on your table fast.

Step 1: Prepare the chicken. Cut your 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook quickly and evenly, ensuring you get that perfect tender bite every time in your creamy pesto chicken.
Step 2: Sear the chicken. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken pieces. Cook them, stirring occasionally, until they are nicely browned on all sides and cooked through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You want a nice golden crust.
Step 3: Create the sauce. Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the 1/2 cup prepared pesto, 1 cup heavy cream, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese directly into the skillet with the cooked chicken. This is where the magic happens for your chicken with creamy pesto sauce!
Step 4: Thicken and season. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens up to a luscious, coating consistency. This is a key step in how to make creamy pesto chicken that’s perfectly saucy.
Step 5: Final touches. Season your masterpiece with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust if needed – sometimes the pesto and Parmesan are salty enough!
Step 6: Serve it up! Ladle your beautiful creamy pesto chicken onto plates. Garnish with fresh basil if you have it, for an extra burst of freshness and color. Enjoy this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Pesto Chicken

I’ve made this dish countless times, and a few tricks really elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. Follow these tips for the most delicious flavorful creamy pesto chicken.

Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure a beautiful golden-brown sear rather than steaming the chicken.
Use good quality pesto! It’s the star flavor, so a robust, fresh-tasting pesto makes a huge difference in your creamy pesto chicken.
For an extra creamy sauce, stir in a tablespoon of butter along with the heavy cream and Parmesan.
If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a minute or two longer, or add a little extra Parmesan cheese.

What’s the secret to perfect creamy pesto chicken?

The secret is in the balance of rich flavors and proper technique. Using high-quality pesto and good chicken, then allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken slightly, creates that irresistible pesto chicken cream sauce. Don’t rush the sauce reduction!

Can I make creamy pesto chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken by cutting it and having your sauce ingredients ready. However, for the absolute best texture and flavor, I recommend cooking the sauce fresh. The cream can sometimes separate if reheated too aggressively.

How do I avoid common mistakes with creamy pesto chicken?

A common pitfall is overcooking the chicken, which makes it dry. Also, avoid boiling the sauce too rapidly, as it can break the cream. If you’re aiming for a creamy pesto chicken bake, ensure your sauce is slightly looser as it will thicken in the oven.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken

This versatile creamy pesto chicken is fantastic on its own, but it truly shines when paired with the right sides. My personal favorite is serving it over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta. A simple spaghetti or fettuccine makes for an amazing creamy pesto chicken pasta dish that’s hearty and satisfying.

If you’re looking for something a little lighter or a different grain, this chicken is also wonderful with fluffy white rice or even quinoa. The creamy sauce coats the grains beautifully, creating a delightful pesto chicken and rice combination that’s both comforting and flavorful. For a low-carb option, try serving it alongside grilled zucchini or roasted asparagus.

Creamy Pesto Chicken: 5-Star Flavor Quick Dinner - serving suggestion with pasta

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Pesto Chicken

This recipe offers a rich and satisfying meal, and understanding its nutritional profile helps you make informed choices. While it’s indulgent, you can still enjoy it as part of a balanced diet. For those looking for a healthy creamy pesto chicken, portion control is key, and you can always opt for the lighter cream variation mentioned in the notes.

Calories: 450
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 400mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially if you opt for different types of pesto or cream.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Pesto Chicken

Once your delicious creamy pesto chicken has cooled down, it’s time to think about storing any leftovers. For the absolute best flavor and texture, I recommend storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh and tasty for about 3 to 4 days. If you know you won’t get to it within that time, freezing is a great option. Properly packaged, your pesto chicken cream sauce leftovers can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to reheat, gentle methods are best. For refrigerated leftovers, you can warm them gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between each, until perfectly warm. If reheating from frozen, thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight first. This helps maintain the integrity of the creamy sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Pesto Chicken

What is creamy pesto chicken?

Creamy pesto chicken is a delightful dish featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a rich, velvety sauce made from basil pesto, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy classic Italian flavors in a comforting main course. This dish is often praised for its simplicity and luxurious taste.

Is this recipe truly easy creamy pesto chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe is designed to be incredibly straightforward, making it an ideal choice for even beginner cooks or those short on time. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up this delicious meal, proving it’s a truly easy creamy pesto chicken option for any night of the week.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can! Chicken thighs are often more forgiving and stay moist, so they work wonderfully in this dish. Just ensure they are cooked through before adding the sauce. Using thighs can make your creamy pesto chicken even more tender and flavorful.

How do I make the sauce thicker if needed?

If your pesto chicken cream sauce isn’t as thick as you’d like, you can simmer it for a few extra minutes over low heat, stirring constantly. Another option is to whisk together a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the simmering sauce until it thickens.

Variations of Creamy Pesto Chicken You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic creamy pesto chicken, you’ll love experimenting with different twists! Here are a few ideas to keep things exciting and cater to various needs or preferences.

One Pan Creamy Pesto Chicken: For ultimate convenience and minimal cleanup, try a one pan creamy pesto chicken. After searing the chicken, you can often finish cooking it directly in the sauce in the oven, or even cook vegetables like cherry tomatoes and spinach in the same skillet with the chicken and sauce.
Creamy Pesto Chicken Bake: Transform this into a comforting bake by transferring the cooked chicken and sauce to a small casserole dish. Top with extra Parmesan or breadcrumbs and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Lighter Version: If you’re seeking a healthy creamy pesto chicken, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even a blend of milk and a little cornstarch for thickening. This still yields a delicious, creamy result with fewer calories and fat.
Chicken Breast with Pesto Cream and Veggies: For a complete meal, consider adding vegetables directly to the skillet. Asparagus spears, broccoli florets, or bell pepper strips can be sautéed alongside the chicken or stirred into the sauce, creating a vibrant and nutritious chicken breast with pesto cream dish.