Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Creamy Pesto Chicken

• A Delicious, Rich Homemade Pesto Sauce

  What truly sets this dish apart is its lusciously creamy basil pesto sauce. Crafted from a blend of heavy cream, savory chicken broth, and a touch of butter, it builds a rich foundation before the star — fresh or store-bought pesto — is folded in. This combination creates a sauce with an incredible depth of flavor that rivals any restaurant creation. The creamy texture perfectly coats each piece of chicken, ensuring every bite is a burst of herbaceous, cheesy goodness.

• Perfectly Cooked, Juicy Chicken Every Time

  Say goodbye to dry, bland chicken! Our method involves lightly coating the chicken breasts in flour and pan-frying them to golden perfection. This technique seals in the juices, resulting in chicken that’s wonderfully tender and moist on the inside, with delightfully crispy edges. The chicken then simmers briefly in the creamy sauce, absorbing all the aromatic flavors, ensuring a truly succulent and flavorful experience.

• An Effortless One-Pan Meal

  Who doesn’t love a delicious meal that requires minimal cleanup? This Creamy Pesto Chicken is a true one-pan wonder, meaning less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your culinary masterpiece. Utilizing common pantry staples, the entire dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need a quick yet satisfying dinner.

• Incredibly Versatile for Any Palate

  Beyond its fantastic taste and ease, this recipe offers amazing versatility. It pairs beautifully with a wide range of sides, from pasta and rice to roasted vegetables and crusty bread. You can easily adapt it to your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family meal or a special gathering, this creamy pesto chicken is sure to please everyone at the table.

Gather Your Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Creating this magnificent dish requires a handful of fresh ingredients and pantry staples. The beauty lies in their synergy, coming together to form a harmonious and flavorful meal. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to prepare both the chicken and the star of the show – the creamy pesto sauce:

For the Juicy Chicken:

• Chicken Breasts: We recommend using large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced lengthwise to create thinner cutlets for even cooking.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: A light coating of flour helps achieve a beautiful golden crust when pan-searing.
• Olive Oil: Used for searing the chicken, adding flavor and promoting browning.

For the Irresistible Creamy Pesto Sauce:

• Heavy Cream: The base for our rich and luxurious sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Adds savory depth and helps thin the sauce to the perfect consistency. Opt for low-sodium to control the overall saltiness.
• All-Purpose Flour: Used as a thickening agent, creating a smooth and velvety sauce.
• Butter: Contributes to the richness and helps create the roux with the flour.
• Salt & Pepper: For seasoning the sauce to your preferred taste.
• Onion Powder: Adds a subtle, savory onion flavor without the texture of fresh onions.
• Garlic Powder: Provides a foundational aromatic garlic flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce, adding a salty, nutty, and umami depth.
• Basil Leaves (Dry): Complements the fresh pesto and adds another layer of herbaceousness.
• Pesto: The star ingredient! You can use your favorite store-bought basil pesto or a homemade version for an even fresher taste.

How to Craft Delicious Creamy Pesto Chicken: Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering Creamy Pesto Chicken dish that tastes like it came straight from a gourmet kitchen. The process is straightforward and designed for efficiency, ensuring a fantastic meal in under half an hour.

1. Prepare and Season the Chicken

   Begin by taking your large chicken breasts and slicing them in half lengthwise. This creates four thinner cutlets, which will cook more quickly and evenly. If the pieces are still uneven, lightly beat them with a kitchen mallet between two sheets of plastic wrap to achieve a uniform thickness. Season both sides of the chicken generously with salt and black pepper, then dredge each piece lightly in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess. This light flour coating is key to getting a beautiful sear.

2. Pan-Sear for Golden Perfection

   Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add about 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pan. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the floured chicken cutlets to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (you may need to work in batches). Sear the chicken for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a clean plate, tent it loosely with aluminum foil, and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

   

3. Build the Creamy Pesto Sauce

   Using the same skillet (no need to clean it, those browned bits add flavor!), reduce the heat to medium-low. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan and allow it to melt. Once melted, sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly with a whisk for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux. This will act as the thickener for your sauce.

   

   Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Add the salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and dried basil leaves. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen!

   

   

   Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the pesto sauce. Mix until everything is well combined and the cheese has melted into the sauce. Allow it to simmer for another 1-2 minutes. This is a crucial moment: taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a bit more pesto to suit your preference.

4. Combine and Simmer to Perfection

   Carefully return the pan-seared chicken breasts back into the skillet with the creamy pesto sauce. Ensure each piece of chicken is nicely coated and nestled into the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer gently for another 3-5 minutes. This final simmer allows the chicken to truly absorb the flavors of the pesto cream sauce, resulting in an incredibly tender and flavorful dish.

   

   

5. Garnish and Serve

   Once the chicken has finished simmering and is thoroughly heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and an added layer of herbaceous freshness. A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese is always a welcome addition. Serve immediately and prepare for rave reviews! Enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal with your favorite side dishes.

   

Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Pesto Chicken

To ensure your Creamy Pesto Chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these valuable tips in mind:

• Even Chicken Thickness: For uniform cooking, it’s crucial to have chicken pieces of similar thickness. If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half lengthwise or use a kitchen mallet to gently pound them until they are about ¾-inch thick. This prevents some parts from being overcooked while others are still raw.
• Pesto Choice Matters: You can absolutely use your favorite store-bought pesto from the grocer’s, which makes this recipe incredibly convenient. However, if you have access to fresh basil, making your own pesto can elevate the flavors even further. Both options yield delicious results.
• Seasoning is Key: Don’t forget to taste your sauce as you go! Adjust the salt, pepper, and even the amount of pesto to suit your personal preference. Starting with the recommended amounts and then adding more ensures the flavors are perfectly balanced.
• Consider Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, boneless chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative. They tend to stay juicier and are very flavorful. Just be aware that cooking times might need slight adjustment, as thighs generally require a bit longer to cook through than breasts.
• Check for Doneness: The safest way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken; it’s done when it reads 165°F (74°C). This prevents both undercooking and overcooking, guaranteeing juicy results.
• Garnish for Impact: A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves not only adds a beautiful pop of vibrant green color but also enhances the overall freshness and aroma of the dish. A final dusting of Parmesan cheese can also add an extra layer of savory goodness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the chicken, work in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan can lower the temperature, leading to steamed rather than beautifully seared and golden-brown chicken.

Creamy Pesto Chicken FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Have some lingering questions about this delightful Creamy Pesto Chicken? Here are answers to common queries that will help you master this recipe.

Discover More Irresistible Chicken Recipes

If you loved this Creamy Pesto Chicken, you’re in for a treat! Our collection of chicken recipes is designed to inspire and delight, offering a variety of flavors and cooking styles for every occasion. Explore more ways to enjoy chicken with these fantastic dishes:

• Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders: A healthier take on a family favorite, perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad: A vibrant and spicy salad that’s packed with flavor and satisfying textures.
• Amazing Jalapeño Popper Chicken: A deliciously creamy and slightly spicy dish inspired by the popular appetizer.
• Bruschetta Stuffed Chicken: Chicken breasts stuffed with a fresh and flavorful bruschetta mixture.
• Caprese Chicken Recipe: A light and fresh dish featuring the classic flavors of tomato, mozzarella, and basil.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe

Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe

By: Mariam Ezzeddine

This Creamy Pesto Chicken is a restaurant-quality meal that you can whip up in no time! Succulent chicken in a creamy pesto sauce, packed with flavor and bound to satisfy.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise (to make 4 cutlets)
• ⅓ tsp. salt
• ½ tsp. black pepper
• 2 tbsps. all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsps. olive oil

For the Creamy Pesto Sauce

• 1½ cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup chicken broth, low sodium
• 1 tbsp. all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp. butter
• ½ tsp. black pepper
• 1 tsp. onion powder
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp. dry basil leaves
• ½ cup pesto sauce (fresh or store-bought)
• ¼ tsp. salt, or more to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare and Season Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts lengthwise to create 4 thinner pieces. If needed, lightly beat with a kitchen mallet to ensure even thickness. Season both sides of the chicken with ⅓ tsp. salt and ½ tsp. black pepper, then dredge each piece lightly in 2 tbsps. all-purpose flour.

2. Pan-Sear Chicken: Heat 2 tbsps. of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned chicken for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Transfer the chicken to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp. of butter over medium-low heat. Add 1 tbsp. all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a smooth roux. Gradually whisk in 1½ cup heavy cream and ¾ cup chicken broth until smooth.

4. Flavor the Sauce: Add ½ tsp. black pepper, 1 tsp. onion powder, 1 tsp. garlic powder, and ½ tsp. dry basil leaves to the sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken slightly.

5. Add Pesto and Parmesan: Stir in ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese and ½ cup pesto sauce. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is fully combined. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with ¼ tsp. salt (or more) as needed.

6. Combine and Finish: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy pesto sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 3-5 more minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors and heat through.

7. Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan cheese (optional) before serving immediately. Enjoy!

Notes

• Lightly beat chicken with a kitchen mallet if needed to even out the pieces for uniform cooking.
• You can use either jarred or fresh pesto from the grocer’s.
• Always taste the sauce as you go and adjust seasonings to your liking.
• Boneless chicken thighs can be used, but adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are done.
• Use a meat thermometer to check chicken doneness; it’s ready when it reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra pop of color and freshness.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 756kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 61g | Saturated Fat: 28g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 214mg | Sodium: 976mg | Potassium: 593mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 2200IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 278mg | Iron: 2mg