Description
Creamy Pesto Chicken is a rich yet balanced dinner made with seared chicken breasts simmered in a creamy basil pesto sauce with garlic, Parmesan, spinach, and cherry tomatoes. This high-protein Mediterranean-inspired meal is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or healthy meal prep.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or light cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- 1 medium zucchini sliced optional
Instructions
1. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Slice horizontally if thick to create thinner cutlets.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
3. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F or 75°C. Remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to rest.
4. In the same skillet reduce heat to medium low and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to release browned bits for extra flavor.
6. Add Greek yogurt or light cream and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
7. Stir in the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce turns light green and aromatic.
8. Add cherry tomatoes, zucchini slices, and spinach. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until spinach wilts.
9. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the creamy pesto sauce over the top.
10. Simmer together for 3 to 4 minutes so the chicken absorbs the sauce flavors.
11. Finish with lemon juice and optional red pepper flakes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Use Greek yogurt for a lighter and higher protein sauce.
- Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or asparagus for variety.
- Serve with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or cauliflower rice.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk to keep the sauce creamy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 48g
- Cholesterol: 110mg