Garlic Pesto Chicken Skillet – Juicy, Easy & Perfect Weeknight Dinner!
A quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring juicy chicken breasts cooked with aromatic garlic, olive oil, and vibrant pesto. This Garlic Pesto Chicken Skillet is perfect for weeknights, with tender chicken and robust Italian-inspired flavors. Serve with garlic-infused pesto and optional fresh basil for a fresh, zesty touch that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/2 cup prepared pesto sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
- Add seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet
- Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side until golden crust formed
- Flip chicken over and add minced garlic to the skillet
- Cook for another 5-6 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F)
- Stir in pesto sauce, coating each piece generously
- Simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes to meld flavors
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired
Notes
Butterfly thick chicken breasts for even cooking
Add a splash of lemon juice to the pesto for an added tangy flavor
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F
For a creamier texture, mix in a bit of heavy cream with the pesto
Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain moisture
Variations/Substitutions: Use chicken thighs for richer flavor and more moisture; substitute chicken with zucchini noodles or grilled veggies and plant-based pesto for a vegetarian version. Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through
Add a splash of lemon juice to the pesto for an added tangy flavor
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F
For a creamier texture, mix in a bit of heavy cream with the pesto
Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain moisture
Variations/Substitutions: Use chicken thighs for richer flavor and more moisture; substitute chicken with zucchini noodles or grilled veggies and plant-based pesto for a vegetarian version. Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through