Pesto Chicken Recipe
An easy pesto chicken recipe that’s flavorful, versatile, and ready in just 20 minutes—perfect for weeknights or dinner parties.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts about 6 oz each – juicy and lean.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – for searing to golden perfection.
- 1 teaspoon salt – season with salt generously.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – adds balance to the herby pesto.
- For the Pesto Sauce
- 1/2 cup homemade pesto or store bought pesto – basil pesto gives the best flavor.
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan – nutty and salty makes the sauce silky.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half – optional but creates a luscious texture.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth – to thin the sauce if it’s too thick.
- Optional Garnishes & Add-Ons
- Cherry tomatoes halved – for color and sweetness.
- Pine nuts toasted – add crunch and nuttiness.
- Extra parmesan – because more cheese is always welcome.
- Fresh basil leaves – for that vibrant finish.
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels (this helps with browning).
- Season generously with salt and black pepper.
- Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F).
- Transfer chicken to a plate and cover with foil.
- Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
- Add pesto, parmesan, and cream. Stir until smooth, about 2–3 minutes.
- If too thick, add chicken broth a splash at a time.
- Combine
- Return chicken to skillet.
- Spoon pesto sauce over the chicken.
- Simmer for 2 minutes so flavors meld together.
- Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with cherry tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, or fresh basil.
Notes
- This recipe works with chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier cut.
- Homemade pesto always tastes fresher, but store bought pesto is a convenient option.
- For dairy-free, swap the cream for cashew or coconut cream and use dairy-free pesto.
- Leftovers reheat best in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth.