Creamy Pesto Chicken is a one-pan dinner with tender chicken, a rich pesto cream sauce, and fresh basil throughout.
Author’s Notes
Pesto Is My Love Language!
If you’ve followed along for any length of time, you probably know how much It is satisfying to pesto. I almost always have some in my fridge, either a reliable store-bought kind (Rana’s) or a batch of from-scratch. It adds so much flavor and takes any dish up a notch. I’m always mixing it into whatever I’m making.
But today, pesto isn’t just an extra. It’s the star of the show. The chicken is quickly pan-seared and coated in the most amazing pesto cream sauce.
The flavor tastes truly restaurant quality, thanks to a few little boosts like fresh lemon juice and a touch of Dijon mustard.
Creamy Pesto Chicken Ingredients
| Ingredient(s) | Tips |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | Slice in half for even and quicker cooking. |
| Chicken broth | Use low or reduced-sodium broth to better control the salt. |
| Parmesan | Use freshly grated Parmesan (I grate a block with a microplane). Skip pre-grated; it won’t melt smoothly into the sauce. |
| Basil pesto | Use a good-quality store-bought or from-scratch pesto. Swap basil for spinach or kale if you like. |
| Dijon mustard & Lemon | skippable additions, but they help to brighten and balance the sauce. |
| Fresh basil | Add at the end for max flavor and color. |
How To Make Creamy Pesto Chicken (Tips)
- Pound chicken to even thickness: For even cooking and more tender meat.
- Deglaze well: After adding broth, scrape up browned bits for extra flavor.
- Cut basil just before using: Keeps it from browning or going limp.
- Don’t overcook the garlic: Burnt garlic turns bitter fast; keep it golden.
- Double the sauce: If serving over pasta or rice, more sauce is always a good idea.
Storage
Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over a low burner, stirring often so the sauce stays smooth. [/storageUse Leftover Pesto In One Of These Dishes:
Dinner
Pesto Chicken Tortellini
Dinner
Grilled Pesto Chicken
Dinner
Sausage Pesto and Veggies
Sandwiches
Pesto Chickpea SaladVariations
Change Things Up!
- Add spinach, thinly ribboned kale, or frozen peas to the sauce for a veggie boost.
- Swap the chicken breasts for chicken thighs. (Cook time will be a bit longer.)
- Sprinkle mozzarella over the chicken before serving.
- mix in sliced sun-dried tomatoes for a Marry Me Chicken-esque meal.
What to Serve with Creamy Pesto Chicken
- Grain: White rice or brown rice.
- Potatoes: Mashed or roasted.
- Bread: French bread or crusty no-knead; reliable for dipping in the sauce!
- Pasta: Angel hair, penne, or spaghetti. Save some pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Veggies: Roasted green beans or asparagus.
- Salad: Garden salad or Italian salad.
