Name: Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs Chicken breasts (Cut into 1-inch pieces); 1 cup Pesto (Homemade or store-bought); 4 cloves Garlic (Minced); 1 cup Heavy cream; 1 tsp Salt; 0.5 tsp Black pepper

Okay, friends, let me tell you about a dish that’s basically a hug in a bowl: Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken. If you love the bright, herby flavors of pesto and the comforting richness of a creamy sauce, then buckle up, because this recipe is about to become your new go-to. It’s easier than making a basic tomato sauce pasta, honestly. Think of it as an elevated chicken piccata, but instead of lemon and capers, you’re getting a symphony of garlic, basil, and Parmesan. My family goes absolutely bonkers for this, and I bet yours will too!

What is Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken?

Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken is, at its heart, a simple skillet dish. It’s essentially pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a luscious sauce made with pesto, garlic, cream, and a touch of Parmesan cheese. I often tell my friends that it’s like marrying the best of Italian comfort food with a quick and easy weeknight meal. The pesto brings a vibrant, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the cream, while the garlic adds that unmistakable savory depth. It’s a dish that feels fancy but requires minimal effort, which is exactly what I need on busy weeknights. Think of it as pesto pasta’s cooler, more sophisticated cousin.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

There are so many reasons to adore this Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken, but let’s start with the most obvious: the flavor! It’s an explosion of fresh basil, pungent garlic, and salty Parmesan, all balanced by the creamy sauce. It’s truly irresistible. And honestly, what I love most about this is how incredibly easy it is to make. From start to finish, you’re looking at maybe 30 minutes, tops. That makes it perfect for those nights when you’re staring into the fridge, wondering what on earth to cook. This recipe is also super cost-efficient. Chicken breasts are relatively affordable, and pesto, while it can be pricey store-bought, is easy and cheap to whip up yourself (I’ll often make a big batch in the summer and freeze it). Plus, it’s so versatile! You can serve it over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even with a side of crusty bread for soaking up that delicious sauce. It’s my go-to when I want something that feels special but doesn’t require a ton of effort, unlike say, a complex lasagna. This one hits the spot every single time! Seriously, try it, you won’t regret it.

How do I make creamy garlic pesto chicken?

Quick Overview

Making Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken is a breeze. You’ll start by searing the Chicken Breasts until golden brown. Then, you’ll whisk together the creamy pesto sauce right in the same skillet. Finally, nestle the chicken back into the sauce and let it simmer until cooked through. The key is to not overcook the chicken – you want it to be tender and juicy, not dry and rubbery. This method is special because it maximizes flavor with minimal cleanup – everything happens in one pan!

Ingredients

For the Chicken: What is the recipe
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each) – I prefer organic, but use whatever you like. * 1 tablespoon olive oil – Extra virgin is best for flavor, but any kind works. * Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper, to taste – Don’t be shy with the seasoning!

What is the recipe for Creamy Garlic Pesto Sauce?
* 2 cloves garlic, minced – Freshly minced is a must for that pungent flavor.
* 1/2 cup prepared pesto – Homemade is amazing, but store-bought works in a pinch (I like the Kirkland brand).
* 1/2 cup heavy cream – This is what makes it so rich and delicious; you can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version, but it won’t be as creamy. I’ve even tried almond milk and it surprisingly tasted good.
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated is always best, but the pre-grated stuff works too.
* 1/4 cup chicken broth – This helps to thin the sauce and add extra flavor.
* Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) – For a little kick!

How do I follow step

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

First, preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and swirl to coat the pan. While the pan is heating, pat the Chicken Breasts dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Salt and pepper. How do you dry a chicken?

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

What is the best way to cook Chicken Breasts in a hot skillet? Is it necessary to sear for 5-7 minutes per side? If the internal temperature is 165°F (74°C), use a meat thermometer to be sure! Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. How do you burn garlic?

Step 4: Make the Sauce

If the chicken broth is too thick for your liking, scrape off any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. What are some of the best sauces to make? Stir in the pesto, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes. I always taste the sauce at this point and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Simmer

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and nestle them into the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. This allows the chicken to absorb all that delicious pesto flavor. I always make sure the chicken is fully coated in the sauce before covering the skillet.

Step 6: Rest

Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. How do you make the juices in chicken more evenly distributed?

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot, spooning the Creamy Garlic pesto sauce over the chicken. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired. I love serving this with a side of pasta or rice to soak up all that delicious sauce.

What should I serve it with?

Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken is incredibly versatile, so the serving options are endless!
What is a quick weeknight dinner?Serve it over pasta (I love it with linguine or fettuccine), alongside a simple green salad. What are some good crusty breads for dipping?For a More Elegant Meal:Pair it with roasted asparagus or green beans and a side of creamy mashed potatoes or risotto. What makes it feel fancy enough for guests?For a lighter option: Serve it with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
For a Cozy Night In: Just grab a loaf of warm bread and soak up all the sauce. My family loves this on a cold winter evening.

How do I make a creamy garlic pesto chicken?

What are some tips for making Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken? Absolutely perfect.

Don’t overcook a chicken: DonWhat is the biggest mistake people make when overcooked chicken is dry and tough? Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and if it is too hot to eat it, it will be hard to cook it. Don’t cook it longer than necessary.

How do I sear chicken properly?What are the best ways to sear chicken? Make sure the pan is hot and the chicken is dry before searing. I like to pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season it generously with salt and pepper.

How do I use fresh garlic?Freshly minced garlic is essential for that pungent flavor. Don’t use jarred garlic – it just doesn’t compare.

How do you make your own pesto? Homemade pesto is always best, but store-bought works in a pinch. If you’re using store-bought, look for a high-quality brand with fresh ingredients. I like to make a big batch of pesto in the summer and freeze it for use throughout the year.

Don’t skimp on Parmesan: It’s Parmesan cheese adds richness and flavor to the sauce. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results. The pre-grated stuff works too, but it doesn’t melt as well and the flavor isn’t as pronounced.

Adjust the Seasoning: What is theAlways taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. What are some good substitutes for Parmesan cheese? What is a pinch of red pepper flakes?

Simmer, Don’t BoilWhen simmering chicken in sauce, make sure the heat is low enough to prevent the sauce from sticking to the chicken. If you boil the sauce, it will curdle and separate. I like to keep the heat on low and let the chicken simmer gently in the sauce until it’s heated through.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Here’s how to store and reheat your Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken:

Room Temperature: I don’t recommend leaving it at room temperature for longer than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate or freeze it as soon as possible.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the chicken cool completely before storing it to prevent condensation from forming inside the container.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken. Wrap the chicken and sauce tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Serve the chicken over gluten-free pasta, rice, or cauliflower rice. Just make sure the pesto you’re using is also gluten-free (some brands add wheat).

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C) for the best results.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Sauté some vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes in the skillet before adding the sauce. They’ll add extra flavor and nutrients.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Just be aware that the flavor will be slightly different. You can also skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.

My sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it?

You can thicken the sauce by simmering it for a few more minutes without the chicken. You can also whisk in a slurry of cornstarch and water (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) while the sauce is simmering.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my go-to Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken recipe! It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. It’s one of those recipes that I always feel good about making, because I know it’s going to be a hit. This one is special because of that luscious creamy sauce that perfectly compliments the seared chicken. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like my Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken or my Creamy Tomato Pasta. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think, and don’t forget to rate the recipe. I love seeing your creations, so feel free to share your own variations as well!

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