This Creamy Basil Pesto Chicken is an easy, flavorful dish you’ll want to add to your regular meal rotation. Ready in about 30 minutes, it feels comforting and impressive—perfect for weeknights or for serving company. Simple ingredients and a one-pan approach make it convenient without sacrificing taste.
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You will need:
4 thin-sliced chicken breast cutlets
2 tbsp olive oil
7 oz basil pesto (refrigerated jar works well)
1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
4 garlic cloves, pressed
¼ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
20 cherry tomatoes
3 tbsp butter
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Fresh basil (optional) for garnish
Large frying pan
Directions for Creamy Basil Pesto Chicken:
1. Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium to medium-high heat. Pan-fry the chicken for about 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until cooked through and registering 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken and set aside; reduce the heat to medium.
3. In the same pan, add the butter, pressed garlic, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté until the tomatoes begin to blister and soften, then remove the tomatoes and set aside.
4. Pour the heavy cream into the pan and stir in the Parmesan. Simmer for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Stir in the basil pesto until the sauce is smooth and evenly combined.
6. Return the tomatoes and the cooked chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce over the chicken to heat everything through and meld the flavors.
7. Garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan if desired.
8. Serve over orzo, rice, or angel hair pasta. This sauce also works well tossed with pasta for a saucier presentation.
This Creamy Basil Pesto Chicken is rich, satisfying, and versatile. We often mix the sauce with orzo or rice, but it’s equally delicious with angel hair pasta. It’s a simple recipe that consistently impresses and has become a repeat favorite in our kitchen.
For more one-pan dinner ideas like smothered pork chops and gravy, try similar simple recipes that combine quick cooking with comforting flavors.
