Creamy pesto chicken has become my go-to for those nights when I want something incredibly flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma of garlic and basil filled my entire house, making my mouth water instantly. It’s a truly satisfying meal that’s both elegant enough for guests and simple enough for a Tuesday night. This easy creamy pesto chicken recipe will have you cooking up a storm in no time. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pesto Chicken
This dish is an absolute winner for so many reasons. Get ready to add it to your regular rotation!
- It’s incredibly flavorful with a rich, savory pesto sauce.
- The chicken is always tender and juicy.
- It’s a quick creamy pesto chicken option for busy weeknights.
- Cleanup is a breeze, often a one-pan wonder.
- It’s a simple creamy pesto chicken that even beginner cooks can master.
- You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables.
- The creamy, garlicky sauce is pure comfort food.
- It feels fancy enough for company but is totally weeknight-friendly.
Ingredients for Creamy Pesto Chicken
Gather these simple ingredients for a fantastic creamy pesto chicken dinner. The star here is, of course, the pesto, which brings that vibrant basil and garlic flavor to life. You’ll also need some chicken, cream, and Parmesan cheese for that signature luscious sauce. This recipe is perfect for a garlic creamy pesto chicken dish that truly sings.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – choose your favorite cut!
- 1 tbsp olive oil – for searing the chicken beautifully
- 1 tsp salt – to enhance all the flavors
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – freshly ground is best
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – this is key for that amazing garlic forward flavor
- 1 cup heavy cream – creates that wonderfully rich and creamy texture
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce – a good quality store-bought or homemade version works
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty depth
- Optional: 1/2 cup cooked pasta or vegetables like broccoli – for a complete meal
How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken
Whipping up this amazing creamy pesto chicken is surprisingly straightforward, and the fact that it’s a one pan creamy pesto chicken dish makes cleanup a dream. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can get this dinner on the table!
- Step 1: Grab a large skillet or a Dutch oven and place it over medium-high heat. Season your chicken pieces generously with the 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
- Step 2: Add the 1 tbsp olive oil to the hot skillet. Once shimmering, carefully place the seasoned chicken into the pan. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, until it’s beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Step 3: Lower the heat slightly and add the 2 cloves garlic, minced, to the skillet. Sauté for just about 30 seconds until you can smell that wonderful garlicky aroma – be careful not to burn it! This step really builds the foundation for that delicious chicken with creamy pesto sauce.
- Step 4: Pour in the 1 cup heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble softly for a minute or two, allowing it to start thickening.
- Step 5: Stir in the 1/2 cup pesto sauce and the 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk them together until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and a gorgeous green color.
- Step 6: Return the seared chicken to the skillet. If you’re adding any optional ingredients like pre-cooked pasta or tender broccoli florets, now is the time to toss them in.
- Step 7: Gently stir everything together, making sure the chicken and any additions are completely coated in the luscious, creamy pesto sauce. Let it simmer for another 3-5 minutes, allowing all those flavors to meld beautifully until everything is heated through.
- Step 8: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve your incredible creamy pesto chicken immediately and enjoy every bite!
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Pesto Chicken
Want to elevate your creamy pesto chicken game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference. Follow these simple tips for a truly outstanding dish every time.
- Always sear your chicken in a hot pan; this creates a delicious crust that locks in juices and adds flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken! It finishes cooking in the sauce, so pull it out when it’s just done.
- Use a high-quality pesto for the most vibrant and authentic flavor. Store-bought is fine, but look for one with fresh ingredients.
- If your sauce seems too thick, thin it out with a splash of chicken broth or milk instead of water.
What’s the secret to perfect creamy pesto chicken?
For the absolute best creamy pesto chicken, it’s all about building layers of flavor. Searing the chicken properly and gently sautéing the garlic before adding liquids are key steps. Don’t rush these parts!
Can I make creamy pesto chicken ahead of time?
You can definitely prepare the chicken and sauce separately a day in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Gently reheat the sauce and then add the chicken to warm through, being careful not to overcook it.
How do I avoid common mistakes with creamy pesto chicken?
A common pitfall is overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry. Another is burning the garlic – sauté it very briefly. Lastly, ensure your pesto is fresh; an old, dull pesto won’t give you that bright flavor. For more on pesto, check out this guide to pesto.
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. For a classic Italian-American meal, serving it over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta is a must; it’s the ideal way to enjoy pesto chicken pasta creamy style. I also love to pair it with some tender roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to add a fresh, green element. If you’re looking for something lighter, zucchini noodles or even a fluffy bed of rice make excellent partners for soaking up that delicious sauce. Try serving it with some focaccia bread to sop up every last drop of sauce.
Nutrition Facts for Creamy Pesto Chicken
When you’re enjoying this delicious creamy pesto chicken, it’s good to have an idea of what you’re eating. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving, giving you a clear picture of this flavorful dish.
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on healthy eating, you can explore resources on nutrition.gov.
How to Store and Reheat Creamy Pesto Chicken
Leftover creamy pesto chicken is a treasure, and knowing how to store and reheat it properly ensures you can enjoy it just as much the next day. Once your delicious meal has cooled down completely, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This is crucial for keeping your creamy chicken with basil pesto fresh and preventing freezer burn. Store it in your refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, the best method is to gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a tiny splash of water or broth if the sauce seems too thick. You can also microwave it, stirring halfway through, until heated through. This dish is a great alternative to mediterranean chicken for a quick dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Pesto Chicken
What is the best way to make creamy pesto chicken?
The best way to make creamy pesto chicken involves searing the chicken until golden brown to lock in juices, then creating a luscious sauce with garlic, heavy cream, pesto, and Parmesan. This method ensures a flavorful and tender result every time, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for creamy pesto chicken?
Absolutely! Using creamy pesto chicken thighs is a fantastic option. Thighs are naturally more forgiving and stay incredibly moist, even if cooked a little longer. They absorb the creamy pesto sauce beautifully, offering a rich flavor that many prefer. If you’re looking for other chicken thigh recipes, check out these sticky sweet chili chicken thighs.
How do I make creamy pesto chicken healthier?
To make your creamy pesto chicken healthier, try using half-and-half or even a blend of milk and a little cornstarch instead of heavy cream. You can also boost the nutritional value and color by adding extra vegetables like spinach or broccoli directly into the sauce as it simmers.
What can I serve with creamy pesto chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with many sides! It’s delicious over pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also complement the rich sauce perfectly. Honestly, you can serve it with almost anything and it will be a hit. For another great chicken dish, try this chicken etouffee recipe.
Variations of Creamy Pesto Chicken You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic creamy pesto chicken, you’ll find there are so many fun ways to switch it up! For a complete meal that’s both healthy and delicious, try making creamy pesto chicken and broccoli by adding florets directly into the sauce during the last few minutes of simmering. If you’re a fan of chicken breast, a simple pan-sear followed by simmering in the creamy pesto sauce creates a wonderfully light yet flavorful chicken breast creamy pesto dish. You could also try adding sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy kick or a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. For a dairy-free option, experiment with full-fat coconut milk and nutritional yeast. If you enjoy Italian flavors, you might also like this cajun lasagna recipe.
Creamy Pesto Chicken: 1 Pan Wonder
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy creamy pesto chicken recipe is a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Enjoy tender chicken coated in a rich, creamy pesto sauce, often made in one pot for minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: 1/2 cup cooked pasta or vegetables like broccoli
Instructions
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken until browned on both sides and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in pesto sauce and Parmesan cheese until well combined and the sauce is creamy.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. If adding pasta or vegetables, add them now.
- Toss everything to coat the chicken and ingredients in the creamy pesto sauce.
- Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce has thickened and everything is heated through.
- Serve your delicious creamy pesto chicken immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Ensure your pesto is good quality for the best flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- This creamy pesto chicken is also great served over rice or zucchini noodles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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