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Creamy Pesto Chicken

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This creamy pesto chicken is a quick and easy dinner that’s packed with flavor. Juicy chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, cheesy pesto sauce—perfect for serving over pasta, rice, or veggies. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a weeknight favorite that feels fancy without the fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  • Add the chicken and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

  • In the same skillet, lower the heat and add minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  • Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the pesto and Parmesan cheese. Add red pepper flakes if using.

  • Simmer the sauce for 2–3 minutes, until slightly thickened.

  • Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.

 

  • Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

Notes

  • Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.

  • You can swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs if preferred.

  • For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.