Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes

Creamy pesto chicken with roasted tomatoes is a rich and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, a luscious pesto cream sauce, and sweet, juicy roasted tomatoes. This restaurant-quality meal is surprisingly simple to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of pesto, cream, and roasted tomatoes is irresistible.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and minimal prep time make this a quick and hassle-free recipe.
• Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for both adults and kids.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil

For the Roasted Tomatoes:

• Cherry or grape tomatoes
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper

For the Creamy Pesto Sauce:

• Butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Heavy cream
• Basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Directions

1. Roast the Tomatoes:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet.
   • Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and slightly blistered.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
   • Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and pesto, mixing until well combined.
   • Add Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine and Serve:
   • Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
   • Add the roasted tomatoes to the skillet. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
   • Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Add Veggies: Include sautéed spinach, asparagus, or mushrooms in the sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
• Cheesy Twist: Top with mozzarella or provolone cheese and broil for a few minutes before serving.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based cream, pesto, and a chicken substitute.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.
• Freezing: Freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and stay moist.

2. How do I make homemade pesto?

Blend fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, pine nuts (or walnuts), olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.

3. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter sauce, you can use milk, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a cornstarch slurry to thicken if needed.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce and chicken separately. Reheat and combine before serving.

5. What can I serve this with?

It pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

6. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as written, it’s naturally gluten-free. Ensure your pesto and Parmesan are gluten-free if needed.

7. Can I use sun-dried tomatoes instead of roasted tomatoes?

Yes, they’ll add a slightly different but delicious flavor to the dish.

8. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Cook the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Avoid overcooking.

9. Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works perfectly for convenience.

10. Can I add other herbs to the sauce?

Yes, fresh parsley or oregano would complement the flavors nicely.

Conclusion

Creamy pesto chicken with roasted tomatoes is a delightful blend of savory and tangy flavors, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try and enjoy the rich, comforting taste of this easy skillet meal!

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