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Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe

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Creamy Pesto Chicken is a quick and comforting dish featuring tender pan-seared chicken breasts in a luxurious basil pesto and cream sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup pesto
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • Optional: 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Optional: 1/2 onion, diced
  • Optional: 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Instructions

  1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Pan-sear chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5 minutes per side.
  3. Remove chicken from the skillet. Sauté onion and garlic until soft, about 3 minutes.
  4. Deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth if desired.
  5. Stir in pesto and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
  7. Optional: Add cherry tomatoes or spinach before serving for freshness.

Notes

  • Use sun-dried tomato pesto for a variation in flavor.
  • Add grated Parmesan for extra creaminess and umami.
  • Substitute chicken thighs for juicier meat, adjusting cook time as needed.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://lauracooks.com/creamy-pesto-chicken-recipe/