Creamy Pesto Chicken
This Creamy Pesto Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of pesto with tender chicken in a creamy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it's quick to prepare and sure to impress.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 persons
Calories 400 kcal
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts About 1.5 pounds.
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup basil pesto
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- as needed pieces fresh basil leaves For garnish (optional).
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly, and then add the basil pesto. Mix well until the sauce is combined and heated through.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the chicken, and let it simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes for the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
Serve the creamy pesto chicken garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
This dish pairs well with pasta or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
You can adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more or less heavy cream, depending on your preference.