Description
This Creamy Pesto Chicken recipe features tender, golden-brown chicken breasts simmered in a rich and flavorful sauce made from pesto, heavy cream, garlic, and sweet grape tomatoes. Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish offers a perfect blend of creamy and savory tastes that make for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.3 lb. total)
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
Sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint grape tomatoes, sliced in half
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup pesto
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Fillet the chicken breasts into two thinner pieces each, or pound them evenly and cut each breast in half to make four portions. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper for balanced flavor.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and swirl it around to coat the surface. Add the chicken pieces and cook them about 7 to 10 minutes total, flipping once, until golden brown and thoroughly cooked. Remove the cooked chicken onto a clean plate.
- Sauté garlic and tomatoes: Reduce heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil along with the minced garlic and halved grape tomatoes. Sauté for about five minutes until the tomatoes soften and begin to break down.
- Make the creamy pesto sauce: Add the heavy cream and pesto into the skillet with the softened tomatoes. Stir well to combine and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed.
- Finish the dish: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet, coating them thoroughly with the creamy tomato pesto sauce. Let the chicken simmer for a few more minutes to heat through completely. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor.
Notes
- For a lower-fat version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- If fresh garlic is not available, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder can be used instead.
- Pesto can be store-bought or homemade depending on your preference.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
