This Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken is a simple yet elegant dish that combines tender chicken breasts with the bold flavors of garlic, basil pesto, and cream. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is rich, comforting, and bursting with fresh, herby goodness. Pair it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the decadent sauce, and watch this dish quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and pesto, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Simmer for 2-3 more minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
Tip: For an extra pop of flavor, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or sun-dried tomatoes over the dish before serving.
