Creamy Pesto Chicken

This Creamy Pesto Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with cherry tomatoes and spinach in a rich sauce of pesto and cream. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this one-pan dinner is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Serve it over pasta, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a satisfying meal everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze!
• Flavor Packed: The combination of creamy pesto, garlic, and fresh vegetables creates a rich and savory sauce.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over pasta, rice, or low-carb zucchini noodles to suit your dietary preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the taste of this creamy chicken dish!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making this delicious Creamy Pesto Chicken, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large frying pan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large frying pan: Allows you to cook multiple ingredients at once without overcrowding.
• Knife: A sharp knife is essential for prepping the chicken and vegetables quickly and safely.
• Cutting board: Provides a clean surface for chopping ingredients, keeping your workspace organized.

Ingredients

This Creamy Pesto Chicken combines tender chicken breasts with cherry tomatoes and spinach in a rich sauce of pesto and cream for a quick and flavorful one-pan dinner.

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 5-6 chicken breasts, thinly sliced (butterflied, sliced in half, or cut into tenders)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cups spinach, roughly chopped with stems removed
• 1/4 cup pesto (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup lightly salted chicken stock
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Garlic powder, to taste
• Onion powder, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by preparing your chicken. If using full chicken breasts, butterfly them or slice them in half horizontally to create thinner pieces that will cook more quickly and evenly. Alternatively, you can cut them into tender-sized strips. Set the chicken aside on a plate. Next, prepare your aromatics and vegetables: mince the garlic, finely chop the shallot, halve the cherry tomatoes, and roughly chop the spinach while removing any tough stems. Having everything prepped will help the cooking process flow smoothly.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season both sides of your prepared chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Don’t be shy with these seasonings; they form the flavor base for the dish. Ensure an even coating across all pieces.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot and shimmering but not smoking, carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces without overcrowding (you may need to work in batches). Sear each piece for just 1–2 minutes per side until lightly golden brown. You don’t need to fully cook it yet; you’ll finish cooking it later in the sauce. Remove all seared chicken from the pan onto a clean plate.

Step 4: Make the Sauce Base

In the same pan (don’t clean it—those browned bits are flavor!), add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add minced garlic, chopped shallot, halved cherry tomatoes, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook this mixture over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally until the tomatoes soften slightly and release their juices.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

To your tomato mixture in the pan, add chopped spinach along with pesto, heavy cream, and chicken stock. Stir everything together until well combined before allowing it to come to a gentle simmer. The spinach will wilt into the sauce as you taste it for seasoning adjustments like salt or pepper as needed. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes so flavors meld together.

Step 6: Finish Cooking the Chicken

Return seared chicken pieces back into the pan by nestling them into your creamy sauce. Let them simmer gently for another 2–3 minutes until fully cooked through while basting some sauce over each piece to ensure even cooking. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Serve

Once everything is cooked through and well combined in sauce that has thickened slightly from simmering together on heat—remove from heat! Serve immediately over pasta, rice or zucchini noodles while spooning plenty of that delicious creamy pesto sauce with its tomatoes & spinach mix on top! Garnish with freshly ground black pepper or grated Parmesan if desired!

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken

Creamy Pesto Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re pairing it with your favorite sides or using it as a base for other meals, the creamy pesto sauce elevates any serving suggestion. Here are some delightful options to consider.

Over Pasta

• Spaghetti or Fettuccine: Toss the chicken and sauce with freshly cooked pasta for a comforting meal.
• Penne: Use penne pasta to capture the creamy sauce in every bite.

On Rice

• White Rice: Serve the chicken over fluffy white rice for a classic pairing that soaks up the flavors.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and complements the dish beautifully.

As a Wrap

• Tortilla Wraps: Slice the chicken and wrap it in a tortilla with fresh veggies for a quick lunch.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with chicken and sauce.

With Zucchini Noodles

• Zoodles: Substitute traditional pasta with zoodles for a lighter, low-carb alternative that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

How to Perfect Creamy Pesto Chicken

To ensure your Creamy Pesto Chicken turns out delicious every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality pesto make a significant difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary; this helps achieve that perfect sear.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.
• Simmer Gently: Allowing the sauce to simmer gently helps all flavors meld together without overcooking the ingredients.
• Check Temperature: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
• Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of Parmesan or fresh herbs can elevate the presentation and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Pesto Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Pesto Chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some top choices that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: A buttery, toasted garlic bread makes for an excellent side to scoop up extra sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing balances out the richness of the chicken.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy crunch and brightens up your meal.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.
6. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad can add texture and fiber while remaining light on the palate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Pesto Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some crucial steps. Here are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcrowding the Pan: If you pile too many chicken pieces into the pan, they will steam instead of sear. Work in batches to ensure an even golden-brown color.

• Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Generously season both sides with salt, pepper, and spices before cooking.

• Not Prepping Ingredients: Failing to prepare your ingredients beforehand can slow down the cooking process. Chop vegetables and mince garlic ahead of time for a smoother experience.

• Ignoring Temperature: Cooking chicken at too high a temperature can lead to burnt outsides and raw insides. Use medium-high heat for optimal cooking without overdoing it.

• Rushing the Simmer: Skipping the simmering step can affect flavor development. Allow the sauce to simmer long enough for the ingredients to meld together beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Creamy Pesto Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure it cools completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Creamy Pesto Chicken

• To freeze, place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container.
• It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Creamy Pesto Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Transfer portions into a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.

• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or stock and heat gently. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Creamy Pesto Chicken healthier?

You can use low-fat cream or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought pesto saves time and works perfectly if you’re short on prep time!

What should I serve with Creamy Pesto Chicken?

This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a lower-carb meal option.

Can I customize the vegetables in Creamy Pesto Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers or mushrooms based on your preference or what you have on hand.

How do I store leftovers of Creamy Pesto Chicken?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to two months.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Pesto Chicken is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor. This versatile recipe allows you to customize ingredients based on your tastes or dietary needs. Whether you serve it over pasta or rice, it’s sure to impress! Give it a try and enjoy a delicious meal that satisfies your cravings!