I’m about to share a recipe that’s not just dinner, it’ is an *vibe*. What are some of the comforting Alfredo recipes that we all grew up with? What is Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken? Is there a killer new personality? Is it really that easy to make a smoothie? Is it like a flavor explosion in your mouth? I promise, this one’s going to be a new staple.

What is Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken?

Alright, let’s break it down. Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken is essentially tender, juicy chicken breasts simmered in a luscious, creamy sauce that’s infused with garlic and vibrant pesto. Think of it as a cross between chicken Alfredo and pesto pasta, but with a whole lot more character. The pesto gives it this bright, herby freshness that cuts through the richness of the cream, and the garlic, well, the garlic just makes everything better, doesn’t it? It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for weeknights but fancy enough for company. This dish is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It’s incredibly comforting, and I always feel like I’m giving everyone a big, warm hug when I serve it.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Oh, where do I even begin? This Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken is a winner for so many reasons. First and foremost, the flavor is just out of this world! The combination of garlic, creamy sauce, and the bright, herby pesto is unbelievably good. It’s a symphony in your mouth! Then there’s the simplicity – seriously, you can whip this up in under 30 minutes. I often find myself making this recipe when I don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen but still want something delicious and satisfying. What I love most about this is how adaptable it is! You can use any kind of pasta you like, serve it over rice, or even just enjoy it with some crusty bread. It’s also surprisingly budget-friendly – chicken breasts are usually pretty reasonable, and you can often find pesto on sale. Plus, it’s a total crowd-pleaser. My kids literally cheer when I tell them we’re having this for dinner! I’ve made chicken recipes before, but this Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken is unique!

How do you make creamy garlic pesto chicken?

Quick Overview

Making this Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken is a breeze! You’ll start by searing the chicken breasts to golden perfection. Then, you’ll create the creamy garlic pesto sauce right in the same pan. Finally, you’ll let the chicken simmer in that heavenly sauce until it’s cooked through and utterly irresistible. The beauty of this method is that everything happens in one pan, which means fewer dishes to wash – yay! It’s so easy, and I’ve honestly taught friends how to make it over the phone. Don’t be intimidated – you’ve got this!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 6-8 ounces each. How do you find chicken breasts that are roughly the same size so they cook evenly. I always like to pat them dry with paper towels for a better sear.
* 1 tablespoon olive oil. Extra virgin olive is my go-to, but any kind of oil will work. If you don’t have olive oil, use vegetable oil.
* 1 teaspoon salt. I prefer sea salt or kosher salt for cooking.
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Freshly ground is always best, but pre-ground works too.

What is the recipe for Creamy Garlic Pesto Sauce?
* 2 tablespoons butter. Unsalted is preferable, so you can control the saltiness of the sauce.
* 4 cloves garlic, minced. Don’t skimp on the garlic! It’s key to the flavor of the sauce. I sometimes add an extra clove for good measure.
* 1 cup heavy cream. This is what makes the sauce so rich and decadent. If you substitute half and half for a lighter version, but the texture won’t be quite as thick.
* 1/2 cup pesto. Store-bought is perfectly fine, but homemade is even better! I love making my own pesto in the summer when basil is in season.
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese is a must! What is the best way to make it melt better and add more flavor?
* 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper flakes (optional). For a little kick. I love adding a pinch for subtle heat. My kids do not like that, so I leave this out.
* Salt and pepper to taste. Always taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
* Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional). Adds a pop of color and freshness.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

How do you pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels? Season them with salt and pepper on both sides. I usually do this step while my pan is preheating, so they’re ready to go.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown. What is the best way to cook a chicken If you want an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is what you’re looking for. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Repeat with the remaining ingredients. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. How do you avoid burning garlic?

Step 4: Add Cream and Pesto

Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper. I always give the sauce a taste at this point and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Step 5: Simmer Chicken in Sauce

If you have chicken breasts, place them in a large skillet and top with the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. If the sauce has thickened a little, it will be served immediately. The longer you simmer, the more the chicken will absorb the flavors of the sauce. YUM!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or crusty bread. What’s better, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese doesn’t hurt either!

Step 7: Enjoy

What is a creamy garlic pesto chicken? Is this a flavor explosion? What is a good dish to share with your loved ones?

What should I serve it with?

What is a good pesto chicken recipe?

What is the classic Italian meal?Serve over pasta – spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne all work beautifully. Add garlic bread and a simple salad for an easy meal. I sometimes roast some cherry tomatoes with garlic and herbs to toss with pasta – it adds a flavor. What a lovely touch of sweetness.

For a lighter option: For an enlargeServe the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. How do you soak up all that delicious sauce? What are some healthy side dishes that can be served with steamed or roasted vegetables? I love serving it with asparagus or Green Beans.

For a Casual Get-Together:Serve the chicken with some crusty bread for dipping in the sauce. This is perfect for a potluck. Can you serve it with roasted potatoes or a simple Caprese salad?

For a Cozy Night In:Sometimes, I like to enjoy this chicken on its own, with a big spoon. No sides needed! What is the perfect meal for a night on the couch? My family loves to eat it as a main dish as well!

How do I make a creamy garlic pesto chicken?

I’ve made this Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken countless times, so I have picked up a few tricks along the way.

Chicken Prep:Make sure to pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels before searing. How do I get a nice golden brown crust? I also like to pound them slightly to an even thickness so they cook evenly.

Garlic:Don’t burn the garlic! Burnt garlic tastes bitter and can ruin the whole dish. Cook it over medium heat for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. If you’re worried about burning it, you can add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan.

Cream: Use heavy cream for the richest, most decadent sauce. However, if you’re looking to lighten things up, you can substitute half-and-half or even milk. Just keep in mind that the sauce won’t be quite as thick.

Pesto: Store-bought pesto is perfectly fine, but homemade is always best! If you’re using store-bought, try to find a high-quality brand. I always add a little bit of extra Parmesan cheese to my pesto for an extra boost of flavor.

Simmering: Don’t overcook the chicken! Simmer it in the sauce until it’s heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. I use a meat thermometer to make sure it’s cooked to perfection every time.

Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce it. The perfect sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but not so thick that it’s gloopy.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Refrigerator Storage: Store the Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I like to use glass containers because they’re easy to clean and don’t absorb odors.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to label it with the date so you know when it was frozen.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Then, heat it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin out the sauce. I don’t recommend microwaving it, as it can make the chicken rubbery.

Glaze Timing Advice: It is important to make sure that all components are chilled properly before the reheating takes place so that it does not lose any quality in regards to taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my all-time favorite Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken recipe! I truly believe this is a dish that everyone should have in their repertoire. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or just looking for a comforting meal on a busy weeknight, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. I really hope you give it a try – I know you’re going to love it as much as we do! And if you’re looking for more easy and Delicious Chicken recipes, be sure to check out my other posts. Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment and rating below, and share your own variations of this recipe!