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)
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.
Notes
- Serve over pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles.
- Try with chicken thighs or half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Enhance with sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg