Ingredients for Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein of this ultimate creamy pesto chicken recipe, ensuring tender, juicy bites. Slice evenly for quick, consistent cooking.
• Heavy cream: Provides that luxurious, velvety texture that makes this pesto chicken truly creamy. Don’t substitute for lighter milks.
• Basil pesto: The essential flavor base, infusing every bite with vibrant herbaceousness. Use a high-quality brand or fresh homemade.
• Olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to a golden perfection and building a flavorful foundation. Use extra virgin for best taste.
• Chicken broth: Adds depth to the sauce and helps achieve the perfect consistency without being too heavy. Low-sodium is always best.
• Garlic cloves: An aromatic foundation, crucial for building layers of savory flavor in the creamy pesto sauce. Mince finely for even distribution.
• Shallot: Offers a milder, sweeter onion flavor than regular onions, perfectly complementing the rich pesto sauce. Dice finely for best texture.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Brings a delightful tangy sweetness and umami depth, elevating the overall flavor profile. Chop them well for integrated bursts.
• Fresh spinach: Adds a beautiful pop of color and a boost of nutrients, wilting down perfectly into the creamy sauce. Use fresh, not frozen.
• Kosher salt: The most essential seasoning, enhancing all the other flavors to make them truly shine. Always season to taste.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and aromatic kick, balancing the richness of the creamy sauce. Grind fresh for superior flavor.
• Red pepper flakes: Provides a gentle heat that cuts through the richness, adding an optional but delightful zing. Adjust to your spice preference.
• Fresh Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for extra richness and offers a salty, nutty finish. Grate fresh for superior texture and flavor.
• Fresh basil leaves: The ultimate finishing touch, providing a fresh, aromatic burst that brightens the entire dish. Chop just before serving.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe

Prep Chicken & Aromatics:

Start by cutting chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces and seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mince garlic, dice shallot, and chop sun-dried tomatoes. This prep ensures everything is ready for your delicious Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe.

Sear Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan; sear in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.

Build Sauce:

To the same skillet, add shallots, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing for 2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth to deglaze, then stir in heavy cream and basil pesto. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Thicken & Wilt:

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Fold in the fresh spinach until it wilts into the creamy sauce. This creates a rich Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe.

Finish & Season:

Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, making it extra luscious. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed for your perfect Creamy Pesto Chicken. Ensure all flavors meld beautifully.

Serve Warm:

Garnish your ultimate creamy pesto chicken recipe with fresh chopped basil and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with a fresh salad for a comforting and satisfying meal. Enjoy every delightful bite!

How to Store Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe

To store leftover Creamy Pesto Chicken, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. I learned not to leave it out too long, ending up with a spoiled batch! Always check for an off smell or slimy texture before enjoying. Proper storage is crucial.

You can prep chicken and chop aromatics a day ahead. For best results, cook the sauce and chicken fresh. When reheating, do so gently, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain a luscious consistency. This helps revive the sauce.

What to Serve with Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe is perfect served over your favorite pasta, like linguine, or fluffy rice, letting the rich sauce shine. For a lighter touch, pair it with a crisp green salad and warm, crusty bread. Always serve warm, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan, to truly enjoy its comforting flavors.

I personally love to serve this ultimate creamy pesto chicken over a generous portion of al dente linguine. The pasta soaks up every bit of that luscious, golden sauce, creating a truly comforting and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent the creamy pesto chicken sauce from curdling?

To prevent curdling, always simmer the sauce gently over low heat. High heat can shock the cream and cause it to separate, which happened to me once! Maintain a steady, low simmer for a beautifully luscious, smooth sauce.

→ Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream in this creamy pesto chicken recipe?

While you can try, I don’t recommend it. Half-and-half has less fat and is more prone to curdling, making your sauce less rich. For the ultimate creamy pesto chicken, stick with heavy cream for the best texture.

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

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. I learned not to leave it out too long, as it can spoil quickly. Always check for any off smells before reheating and enjoying.

→ Can I freeze The Ultimate Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe You’ll Love?

Freezing isn’t ideal for creamy sauces, as they often separate and become grainy upon thawing. While you can freeze the cooked chicken, I recommend making the sauce fresh for the best texture and flavor every time.

→ Can I easily make this creamy pesto chicken recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Absolutely, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure your chicken broth and store-bought pesto are certified gluten-free. Serve it over rice or with a fresh salad instead of pasta for a delicious, celiac-friendly meal.