Creamy Pesto Chicken

Published: February 16, 2026

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This Creamy Pesto Chicken

This incredible Creamy Pesto Chicken transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Creamy Pesto Chicken:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce; opt for full-fat cream for the creamiest texture.
Pesto Sauce: Use homemade or store-bought; either way, it should be vibrant and packed with flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best; it melts beautifully into the sauce.

For the Sauce:

Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Creamy Pesto Chicken:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once it’s shimmering and ready to go, add your seasoned chicken breasts. Cook each side for about 5 minutes until they develop a golden brown crust.

Step 3: Make That Creamy Sauce

Once your chicken is perfectly seared, remove it from the skillet temporarily. In that same skillet (because who wants more dishes?), add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and stir in your pesto sauce along with half of the Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer gently until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Return your lovely chicken breasts back into the skillet swimming in that luscious creamy mixture. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese on top before transferring everything to your preheated oven.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). The smell will drive you wild!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra sauce from the pan for the perfect finishing touch. Serve with crusty bread or over pasta—your taste buds will thank you!

Now that you’ve mastered this creamy pesto chicken recipe, get ready for compliments from everyone around your dinner table! So put on your chef hat (or apron) and dive into this delightful culinary adventure!

You Must Know About Creamy Pesto Chicken

This showstopping Creamy Pesto Chicken delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first until golden brown, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy pesto sauce. This simultaneous cooking method saves time and enhances flavors, ensuring everything is perfectly finished together.

Flavor Your Way

Customize your creamy pesto chicken by adding sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or even some red pepper flakes for a kick. Swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a delightful twist!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover creamy pesto chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat to maintain its creamy texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Creamy Pesto Chicken

This professional-quality Creamy Pesto Chicken relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sharing this creamy pesto chicken recipe always gets me raving reviews from friends! One time, my neighbor practically begged for the recipe after enjoying it during a cozy dinner gathering. It’s moments like these that make cooking so rewarding!

FAQs

What is Creamy Pesto Chicken?

Creamy Pesto Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, creamy pesto sauce. This savory dish features fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese blended into a smooth sauce that perfectly complements the juicy chicken. It’s not only easy to prepare but also offers a burst of flavor that’s both comforting and satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, Creamy Pesto Chicken can be served over pasta, rice, or alongside vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I make Creamy Pesto Chicken?

To make Creamy Pesto Chicken, start by seasoning chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear them in a hot skillet until golden brown. In the same pan, add heavy cream and your favorite pesto sauce. Stir well to combine and allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens slightly. Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the creamy mixture over each piece. Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Serve your creamy dish over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.

Can I make Creamy Pesto Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Creamy Pesto Chicken ahead of time! Cook the chicken and sauce as directed, then let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on low heat until warmed through. Just be cautious not to overcook it during reheating; this helps maintain the tenderness of the chicken. Preparing it in advance allows flavors to meld together for even better taste.

What can I serve with Creamy Pesto Chicken?

Creamy Pesto Chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides. You can serve it over al dente pasta like fettuccine or linguine for a hearty meal. Steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans add a nutritious balance. A light salad with mixed greens and a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish beautifully. Additionally, crusty bread makes an excellent accompaniment for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce from your plate.

Conclusion

In summary, Creamy Pesto Chicken is an easy yet flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce made from fresh ingredients like basil and Parmesan cheese, this recipe can elevate your dinner table effortlessly. Serve it alongside pasta or vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to prepare this delicious dish ahead of time for added convenience during busy evenings! Enjoy making and sharing your Creamy Pesto Chicken with family and friends!