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Easy Pesto Chicken Recipe

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4.1 from 4 reviews

This Easy Pesto Chicken recipe combines tender seared chicken breasts with a rich, creamy pesto sauce, finished off in the oven with melted mozzarella and fresh tomatoes for a flavorful Italian-inspired dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 1 pound chicken breast (4 thin breasts)
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Sauce

  • 1/3 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
  • 3/4 cup pesto
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Toppings (Optional)

  • 1 cup small tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking your chicken dish.
  2. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle both sides of each chicken breast evenly with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to infuse flavor before cooking.
  3. Sear the Chicken: Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear each chicken breast for 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust, then remove and set aside.
  4. Prepare the Pesto Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, add the white wine (or chicken broth), pesto, heavy cream, and grated parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
  5. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Place the seared chicken breasts into an ovenproof skillet or casserole dish and pour the creamy pesto sauce over the chicken evenly.
  6. Add Toppings: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken and arrange small tomatoes on top if using, to enhance flavor and presentation.
  7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked.

Notes

  • You can substitute white wine with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version of the sauce.
  • Using thin chicken breasts helps them cook evenly and quickly.
  • For a richer flavor, consider using homemade pesto.
  • Adding tomatoes is optional but adds a fresh, acidic contrast to the creamy sauce.
  • Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

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