If you’re looking for a dish that’s both rich and full of flavor, this Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken is the answer. Tender chicken breasts are seared to perfection and smothered in a luscious garlic pesto cream sauce that’s bound to impress. The combination of garlic, pesto, and Parmesan creates a savory, creamy blend that pairs wonderfully with vegetables, pasta, or a simple salad. Whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a more special occasion, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes and is guaranteed to satisfy.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts according to your preference.
- Prepare the chicken: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Prepare the garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Make the cream sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cream to slightly thicken.
- Add the pesto: Stir in the pesto sauce and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If you prefer a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes at this stage.
- Return the chicken to the pan: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top of the chicken. Allow the mixture to gently bubble for 2 to 3 minutes, letting the cream thicken a little.
- Garnish and serve: If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately with your choice of side, such as pasta, rice, or vegetables.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken is the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy chicken with a rich, flavorful sauce. The creamy pesto and garlic sauce elevate the dish to a restaurant-quality meal, but it’s surprisingly easy and quick to make at home. Whether you’re feeding the family or entertaining guests, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken: A Flavor-Packed Dinner in Minutes
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup pesto sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for a bit of heat
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts according to your preference.
- Prepare the chicken: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Prepare the garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Make the cream sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cream to slightly thicken.
- Add the pesto: Stir in the pesto sauce and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If you prefer a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes at this stage.
- Return the chicken to the pan: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top of the chicken. Allow the mixture to gently bubble for 2 to 3 minutes, letting the cream thicken a little.
- Garnish and serve: If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately with your choice of side, such as pasta, rice, or vegetables.