If you're craving a dish that embodies the rich, comforting flavors of Italian cuisine, look no further than our Creamy Pesto Parmesan Chicken! This mouthwatering recipe combines succulent chicken breasts with a luscious creamy pesto sauce, making it the perfect centerpiece for any dinner table. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, you can impress your family or guests with a gourmet meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to make. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a golden-brown sear.
- Cook the chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Keep the chicken warm by covering it loosely with aluminum foil.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add the pesto sauce to the cream, whisking continuously to create a smooth, uniform sauce.
- Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and well combined.
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy pesto sauce over each piece to coat thoroughly.
- Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to reheat the chicken and allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired. Pair with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Perfectly Seasoned Chicken: Don’t skimp on seasoning! Generously season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
- Achieve the Perfect Sear: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. A good sear locks in moisture and gives the chicken a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Scrape the Pan: When adding the heavy cream, take a moment to scrape up the browned bits from the skillet. This adds extra flavor to your sauce.
- Whisk for Creaminess: Continuously whisk the pesto and cream together to achieve a smooth, creamy sauce without lumps.
- Let the Flavors Meld: Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for a few minutes. This step is crucial for the flavors to blend and the chicken to absorb the creamy goodness.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t forget to garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil before serving. It adds a fresh touch and makes the dish visually appealing.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve this dish with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 130mg
