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Irresistible Creamy Pesto Chicken for Busy Weeknights


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  • Author: Penny Smith
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

A comforting yet elegant chicken dish simmered in a rich, creamy pesto sauce, perfect for busy weeknights when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort.


Ingredients

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – 1 ½ pounds (680 g)

  • Olive oil – 2 tablespoons

  • Salt – 1 teaspoon

  • Black pepper – ½ teaspoon

  • Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon

  • Onion powder – 1 teaspoon

  • Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons

  • Garlic, minced – 4 cloves

  • Heavy cream – 1 cup (240 ml)

  • Chicken broth – ½ cup (120 ml)

  • Basil pesto – ½ cup (120 g)

  • Grated Parmesan cheese – ½ cup (50 g)

  • Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon

  • Red pepper flakes – ¼ teaspoon (optional)


Instructions

  • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

  • Lower the heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.

  • Stir in chicken broth, scraping the pan, then add heavy cream, pesto, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.

  • Simmer the sauce for 3–4 minutes, then return the chicken to the skillet.

  • Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and simmer for 5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is creamy.

Notes

  • Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.

  • Serve with pasta, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes