Creamy Pesto Chicken is a luscious, flavor-packed dish that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a rich, creamy sauce infused with aromatic basil pesto.
The chicken is typically seared until golden brown, locking in the juices, then simmered in a velvety blend of heavy cream, pesto, and sometimes a hint of garlic or Parmesan for added depth.
The pesto delivers a fresh, herby brightness, while the cream balances it with a smooth, indulgent texture. This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables, making it a versatile option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
This Creamy Pesto Chicken is a rich, flavorful, and easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners. With juicy pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a creamy parmesan pesto sauce, this dish is both decadent and comforting.
It’s a low-carb, protein-packed dish that pairs well with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick yet indulgent meal!
Its beauty lies in its simplicity — minimal prep, quick cooking, and maximum flavor. The creamy pesto sauce clings to every bite, ensuring a comforting, satisfying meal.
Whether you use homemade pesto bursting with fresh basil or a high-quality store-bought jar, the result is equally delightful.
It’s a recipe that feels gourmet without requiring hours in the kitchen. Served with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a garnish of fresh basil, Creamy Pesto Chicken is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Perfect for anyone who loves the irresistible combination of creamy, cheesy, and herbaceous flavors.
Creamy Pesto Chicken combines golden-seared chicken breasts with a garlic-infused, creamy basil pesto sauce.
The addition of Parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes gives it a bold, savory kick, making it a restaurant-quality dish you can make at home!
Slice chicken breasts in half for thinner cutlets.
Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked.
Remove from pan and set aside.
In the same pan, sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in pesto, chicken broth, and heavy cream, then bring to a gentle simmer.
Add red pepper flakes (if using) and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Return chicken to the pan, coating it in the sauce.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
Serve over pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables!
Servings 4
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free pesto.
Use Rotisserie Chicken for a Shortcut
If short on time, shred rotisserie chicken and toss it in the sauce instead of pan-searing fresh chicken.
Pair with the Right Sides
Serve over angel hair pasta, zucchini noodles, mashed potatoes, or garlic bread.
Make It Lighter
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lower-fat version.
Add Veggies for a Balanced Meal
Stir in baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
Make It Dairy-Free
Proper storage ensures that the Creamy Pesto Chicken maintains its creamy texture and fresh flavor, making it a great make-ahead meal option. You can even prepare the sauce separately and store it in the fridge for up to a week to use with freshly cooked chicken when needed.
In conclusion, Creamy Pesto Chicken is a dish that perfectly combines the rich, aromatic flavors of basil pesto with a silky, creamy sauce to create a meal that feels both luxurious and comforting.
The tender chicken breasts, seared to golden perfection and then enveloped in a smooth pesto-infused cream sauce, offer a delightful balance of savory, herbaceous, and creamy notes.
Whether served over pasta, rice, or simply with a side of vegetables, this dish elevates any meal with its vibrant yet mellow flavors.
What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples—pesto, heavy cream, and chicken—you can craft a restaurant-quality dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
The pesto sauce, made from fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil, infuses the cream with its signature punch, creating a rich, decadent finish that complements the mild chicken beautifully.
The entire dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but flavorful.
Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can add vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor, or swap in chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option.
For those looking to lighten up the dish, using a lighter cream or a dairy-free substitute still yields a rich result.
Creamy Pesto Chicken is a meal that pleases all palates, from the pesto lover to those who prefer milder, comforting dishes.
Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or just need a quick weeknight dinner, this dish delivers a satisfying, flavorful experience that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Rich, creamy, and bursting with fresh flavors, it's a meal that will leave you coming back for more.
