If you have been searching for a dish that combines rich flavors with effortless cooking, this Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe is an absolute must-try. It brings together tender chicken bathed in a luscious herb-infused sauce that’s velvety and packed with the fragrant brightness of basil pesto. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe delivers comfort and flair in every bite. The creamy texture perfectly balances the vibrant herbal notes, making it a memorable crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a key role in creating the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color in this dish. Fresh herbs, quality pesto, and simple pantry staples come together to transform chicken into something truly special.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Choose your favorite cut for juicy, tender meat that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For golden searing that locks in flavor and adds a subtle richness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: The essential seasoning to enhance all the natural flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick and balances the creaminess.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings aromatic warmth and depth to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, luxurious base of the sauce.
- ½ cup prepared basil pesto: The star ingredient delivering that unmistakable fresh herb flavor and vibrant green color.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty complement to the creamy sauce.
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle touch of heat that brightens the dish.
- Fresh basil and extra Parmesan for garnish: To finish with an elegant, fresh, and cheesy note.
How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by liberally seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the chicken pieces in the skillet and sear for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, allowing them to develop a gorgeous golden crust. This searing step locks in juices and builds flavor for the sauce to cling to. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Reduce the heat to medium, then add minced garlic to the now-empty skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. This quick step infuses the oil with garlic’s warm aroma, laying the foundation for the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Pesto Sauce
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer, keeping an eye so it doesn’t boil over. Stir in the prepared basil pesto, Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly and has a smooth, luscious consistency. This sauce captures all the bright, herbal flavors in a rich, creamy embrace.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling each piece in the sauce. Spoon the creamy pesto mixture over the chicken generously, then let everything simmer together for another 2 to 3 minutes. This reheating step melds the flavors and ensures every bite of chicken is coated with that irresistible pesto cream.
How to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
When plating, fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese add freshness and a colorful pop that makes the dish visually stunning. These final touches elevate the meal and highlight the fresh, herbaceous notes of the pesto.
Side Dishes
This dish shines served alongside creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or al dente pasta. Any of these sides wonderfully soak up the extra sauce, making your meal feel complete and truly satisfying. For a lighter option, try steamed veggies or a crisp garden salad to balance out the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the chicken and serve it over toasted baguette slices as an appetizer or on a fresh salad bed for a light lunch. You can also spoon the creamy pesto sauce over grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes for a vegetarian-friendly spin that keeps the magic alive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy pesto chicken keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more deeply, making for an easy next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well as long as you let it cool completely first. Transfer servings to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth without breaking. You can also reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to preserve that perfect creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and tend to stay even juicier, especially when seared well. Just adjust cooking time slightly if needed.
Is it possible to lighten the sauce?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce version. The texture will be slightly less rich but still delicious and creamy.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The flavor will be different but still tasty.
What type of pesto is best for this recipe?
Classic basil pesto is recommended here for its fresh, herbaceous flavor. However, sun-dried tomato pesto makes a fantastic variation if you want to switch things up.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add just a mild, background heat that complements the creaminess without overwhelming the flavors. Feel free to omit or adjust to your spice preference.
Final Thoughts
It’s hard to beat the comforting yet fresh flavors of this Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe. Easy to prepare and brimming with deliciousness, it quickly becomes one of those go-to meals you feel great about serving. So, grab your skillet, gather those simple ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a dish that tastes like love in every forkful. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll be a favorite for years to come!
Print
Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Pesto Chicken recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts or thighs cooked to golden perfection and smothered in a rich, flavorful sauce made from basil pesto, heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. It’s a quick and delicious Italian-inspired main course perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, served best over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup prepared basil pesto
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh basil
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor throughout the meat.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken in the skillet and sear for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the basil pesto, grated Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Continue to simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken pieces and simmer together for another 2 to 3 minutes to reheat the chicken and allow it to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation. Serve warm over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to create a lighter sauce.
- Use sun-dried tomato pesto instead of basil pesto for a delicious variation.
