Get ready to fall in love with dinner all over again thanks to this Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe! Tender chicken breasts are pan-seared until golden, then bathed in a luxurious Parmesan-basil pesto cream sauce that’s absolutely packed with flavor. Whether you’re a weeknight dinner warrior or you love cooking for friends and family, this dish brings an Italian-inspired magic to your table with minimal fuss and truly unforgettable taste.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe are simple yet powerful. Each one plays a starring role, creating layers of flavor and that signature creamy texture while keeping the recipe approachable even on the busiest evenings.

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless and juicy, these are the perfect base for soaking up the savory sauce.
Olive oil: Helps you get that beautiful sear while adding mild, fruity notes.
Salt and black pepper: Season generously for the best depth of flavor in the finished dish.
Heavy cream: Gives the sauce its decadent richness and thick, creamy consistency.
Basil pesto: Brings a bold herbal punch—feel free to use your favorite store-bought or homemade blend!
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty complexity and helps the sauce thicken.
Garlic powder: Delivers a fragrant, mellow garlicky backdrop.
Fresh basil and extra Parmesan (optional): For a gorgeous, aromatic finishing touch.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle both sides of each chicken breast with salt and black pepper. This simple step not only enhances the chicken’s flavor but also ensures every bite is perfectly seasoned from the inside out.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side without moving them too much so you get that irresistible golden crust. When the chicken is cooked through and deeply browned, transfer it to a plate and set aside—trust me, the anticipation builds with every minute!

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Pesto Sauce

Turn the heat down to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the basil pesto, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. This is when the kitchen starts to smell absolutely heavenly! Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring now and then until it thickens just enough to coat the back of your spoon.

Step 4: Simmer and Finish

Return the chicken (plus any delicious juices that have collected on the plate) to the skillet. Spoon the creamy pesto sauce over the top and let everything simmer together for another 2 to 3 minutes. This final simmer lets the flavors mingle and ensures your chicken is juicy, tender, and fully infused with that basil-Parmesan magic.

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

A flurry of fresh basil leaves and a final dusting of Parmesan cheese take this Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe from great to show-stopping. The basil adds brightness while extra cheese melts into the sauce, creating an ultra-enticing finish.

Side Dishes

Serve your chicken over twirls of buttery pasta, fluffy cooked rice, or a bed of quick-sauteed zucchini noodles for a lighter, low-carb spin. Roasted veggies or a crisp salad with lemony vinaigrette make perfect, colorful companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For guests, try slicing the chicken and fanning it out on a platter with sauce drizzled over top—gorgeous and convenient for serving. Or tuck the chicken and sauce into a crusty roll or soft hoagie bun for an epic, gourmet sandwich!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers from your Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The sauce may thicken slightly as it chills, but the flavors only get deeper and more delicious.

Freezing

While you can freeze leftovers for up to two months, keep in mind that cream-based sauces may separate slightly after thawing. If you plan to freeze, cool the chicken and sauce completely first, then pack them together in freezer-safe containers.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the chicken and sauce together gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the sauce seems thick, add a splash of milk or cream to bring it back to silky perfection.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and add a slightly richer flavor. Just be sure to adjust cook times as needed to ensure they’re fully cooked through.

Is it possible to make this Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe lighter?

Definitely—swap the heavy cream for half-and-half, and use a reduced-fat Parmesan if you prefer. You’ll still end up with a deliciously creamy sauce but with a few less calories.

Can I make my own pesto for this recipe?

Homemade pesto is always welcome! Blend together fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, pine nuts, and olive oil for a beautifully fresh, vibrant sauce that shines in this Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe.

What other add-ins work well in the sauce?

You can stir in a handful of baby spinach, some chopped sun-dried tomatoes, or even a few artichoke hearts to add color, texture, and extra bursts of flavor to the creamy pesto sauce.

Is this Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as written, the recipe is gluten-free! Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free pasta or your choice of veggie sides to keep the whole meal friendly for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to wow your family with something quick, comforting, and bursting with bold Italian flavors, this Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe is your new go-to. Give it a try and watch it become a regular at your dinner table!

Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 13 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this delicious Creamy Pesto Chicken recipe. Tender chicken breasts are seared to perfection and smothered in a decadent basil pesto cream sauce. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pesto Cream Sauce:

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For Garnish:

Fresh basil and extra Parmesan (optional)

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Instructions

Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Make the Cream Sauce: Lower heat to medium, pour in heavy cream. Stir in pesto, Parmesan, and garlic powder. Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine and Serve: Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired.