Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken Recipe

Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken Recipe


Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken – A One-Pan, 30-Minute Flavor Bomb!

If you love big flavors with minimal effort, this Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken is about to become your new go-to dinner. Juicy chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and rich sun-dried tomatoes come together in a luxuriously creamy pesto sauce—all in one pan and under 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is comfort food with a gourmet twist—without the hassle. Serve it over pasta, rice, or keep it low-carb with zucchini noodles. Once you try it, you’ll be making it on repeat!

Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken Recipe

A rich, creamy, and flavorful one-pan chicken dish made with pesto, garlic, and vibrant veggies—ready in just 30 minutes!

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American / Italian-inspired

Keyword: Garlic Pesto Chicken

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 596kcal

Ingredients

  • 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ red onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped (reserve the oil for cooking)
  • 3 bell peppers (1 red, ½ yellow, ½ green), sliced
  • ½ cup basil pesto
  • ½ cup heavy whipping cream
  • ½ cup chicken stock
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Chopped fresh basil, for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of the reserved tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  • Add the red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning, then place the chicken breasts in the skillet.

  • Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. If browning too quickly, lower the heat.

  • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the basil pesto, heavy cream, and chicken stock until well combined.

Sauté the Vegetables

  • In the same skillet, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. If needed, add a bit more of the reserved oil.

  • Sauté over medium-high heat for about 1 minute until fragrant.

  • Add the sliced bell peppers and cook until slightly tender but still crisp.

Combine Everything

  • Pour the prepared pesto sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer.

  • Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return them to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in the sauce and let it warm through for 2-3 minutes.

Serve & Enjoy

  • Garnish with freshly chopped basil and grated Parmesan.

  • Serve immediately over pasta, rice, bulgur, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower rice.

Nutrition

Calories: 596kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 60g | Fat: 33g | Sodium: 270mg

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Tips & Variations

  • Room Temperature Chicken: Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking for even cooking.
  • Spice It Up: Add a drizzle of hot sauce or Sriracha for extra heat!
  • Alternative Protein: Try this recipe with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

This creamy garlic pesto chicken is a perfect balance of flavors, making it an easy and satisfying meal. Enjoy!

 



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