Ingredients for Creamy Pesto Chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star essential protein for this creamy pesto chicken. Provides tender texture. Cut into cutlets for quicker cooking.
• Olive oil: Provides the foundation for sautéing the chicken and aromatics. Adds richness. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil.
• Heavy cream: The essential “creamy” element in this creamy pesto chicken recipe. Creates luxurious texture. Don’t substitute for lower fat options.
• Basil pesto: The essential vibrant flavor for this ultimate creamy pesto chicken. Use good quality store-bought or homemade.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Thins the creamy sauce to the perfect consistency. Adds savory depth. Use low-sodium to control saltiness.
• Garlic, minced: An aromatic essential for building the sauce’s flavor. Mince fresh cloves for the most vibrant taste.
• Shallot, finely diced: Milder onion flavor adds subtle sweetness without overpowering the pesto. Finely dice for even distribution.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce): Adds salty, umami depth to the rich sauce. Helps thicken. Grate fresh for superior flavor.
• Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the rich, creamy sauce. Cuts through creaminess. Squeeze fresh for vibrant zest.
• Kosher salt: The essential seasoning that enhances all flavors in the dish. Crucial for seasoning. Season gradually and taste as you go.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle, aromatic kick that balances the sauce’s richness. Freshly grind for best flavor.
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish: Provides a fresh aromatic pop and reinforces the pesto flavor. Chop just before serving for best results.
• Pine nuts, toasted, for garnish: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the finished creamy pesto chicken. Toast lightly for best aroma.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken

Sear Chicken:

Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics:

In the same skillet, add shallots and garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and softened. This creates a delicious flavor base for our Creamy Pesto Chicken.

Build Sauce:

Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in heavy cream, basil pesto, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Simmer Together:

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it evenly in the luscious sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly warmed through and absorbs the rich flavors of this Creamy Pesto Chicken.

Adjust Seasoning:

Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper if needed. The goal is a perfectly balanced flavor for your ultimate Creamy Pesto Chicken. Ensure the sauce is rich and creamy.

Garnish & Serve:

Garnish generously with fresh chopped basil and toasted pine nuts. Serve your delightful Creamy Pesto Chicken immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread. Enjoy this quick and satisfying meal!

How to Store Creamy Pesto Chicken

To store leftover Creamy Pesto Chicken, allow it to cool completely. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly for up to 3-4 days. Don’t leave it out too long, or it won’t stay fresh and safe – a mistake I’ve made! Discard if any unusual smell or sliminess appears.

For make-ahead convenience, cook chicken and sauce separately. Store each in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop or microwave; a splash of broth helps maintain creaminess for optimal results.

What to Serve with Creamy Pesto Chicken

Serve this delightful Creamy Pesto Chicken simply over your favorite pasta, fluffy rice, or with warm crusty bread. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with extra fresh basil and Parmesan. It’s perfect enjoyed warm, and pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad or a glass of light white wine.

I personally love to serve this over a bed of linguine, finished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest. The pasta perfectly catches the creamy sauce, and that hint of citrus brightens every bite. It’s truly the perfect way to enjoy it!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for this Creamy Pesto Chicken?

Yes, absolutely! Chicken thighs add even more moisture and flavor to this dish. Adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a minute or two longer to cook through. I love the richness they bring.

→ How do I prevent the chicken from becoming dry or tough in this Creamy Pesto Chicken recipe?

Don’t overcook the chicken! Sear until just golden and cooked through, then only simmer briefly in the sauce. Overcooking is a common mistake I made early on; tender chicken is key for the ultimate Creamy Pesto Chicken.

→ How long can I store leftover Creamy Pesto Chicken in the refrigerator safely?

Leftover Creamy Pesto Chicken stores well in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Ensure it cools completely before storing to maintain freshness. A splash of broth helps when reheating to keep it creamy.

→ Can I freeze this Creamy Pesto Chicken recipe for later meal preparation?

Freezing creamy sauces can alter their texture upon reheating, sometimes making them separate. While technically possible, I don’t recommend freezing the finished Creamy Pesto Chicken. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

→ Can I make The Ultimate Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Creamy Pesto Chicken recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure your chosen basil pesto is also certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain hidden ingredients. Serve it with rice or gluten-free pasta.