Creamy Pesto Chicken
Creamy Pesto Chicken is a culinary masterpiece that brings together the rich flavors of creamy sauce and vibrant pesto in a dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds.
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Approximately 1.5 pounds total.
Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream Forms the base of the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce Homemade or store-bought.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Use extra virgin for best flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic adds depth.
Seasoning
- to taste salt Essential for seasoning.
- to taste pepper Essential for seasoning.
Cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Choose freshly grated for best melting.
Garnish
- to taste fresh basil leaves Optional, for garnish.
Instructions
- 1. Start by preparing the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- 2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- 3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 4. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow to simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- 5. Add the pesto sauce, stirring until fully incorporated. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- 6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
- 7. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- 8. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately.
Notes
Consider adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition. Serve with garlic bread or a fresh salad.