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Creamy Pesto Chicken Breast

This creamy pesto chicken breast is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Juicy pan-seared chicken breasts are simmered in a creamy basil pesto sauce with garlic and Parmesan, creating a restaurant-quality meal in just 30 minutes. Serve it over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or with roasted vegetables for a comforting dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course: dinner, lounch
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • ⅓ cup basil pesto
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup chicken broth
  • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley optional, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If they are thick, pound them to an even thickness.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season both sides evenly with the spice mixture.
  4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  5. Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and basil pesto until well combined.
  7. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce becomes smooth.
  8. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the creamy pesto sauce over the top.
  9. Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  10. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Use refrigerated basil pesto for the freshest flavor.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan creates a smoother, creamier sauce.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a splash of chicken broth or milk.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Serve with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, zucchini noodles, or roasted vegetables.