Garlic Pesto Chicken Skillet
A mouthwatering dish that combines succulent chicken with the aromatic allure of fresh basil pesto, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 5-6 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until cooked through.
- Reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the basil pesto and heavy cream, stirring to combine and create a creamy sauce enveloping the chicken.
- Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
For perfect results, pound chicken to an even thickness, use high-quality ingredients, do not rush the searing process, and serve warm for the best flavor. Variations include swapping heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut cream, and adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini.