Creamy Chicken

Blog Post: Creamy Chicken Skillet – A Flavorful Weeknight Delight

Are you craving a quick and delicious dinner that’s bursting with flavor? This Creamy Chicken Skillet recipe is just what you need! With tender chicken strips, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich pesto sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

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Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
• 2 small bell peppers, cut into long thin strips (any color)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup low sodium chicken broth
• 3 tablespoons basil pesto
• Chopped fresh basil, for garnish
• Grated parmesan, for garnish

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Directions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat.
   • Season the chicken strips with Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
   • Cook the seasoned chicken in the skillet for 7-8 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Make the Pesto Cream Sauce:
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, and basil pesto. Set this mixture aside for later.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Return the skillet to the heat and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
   • Add the diced onions to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes, until they begin to soften.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for an additional minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant.
   • Add the bell pepper strips to the skillet and sauté for about 4 minutes, or until the peppers are tender but still slightly crisp.
4. Combine and Simmer:
   • Pour the prepared pesto cream sauce into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
   • Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet. Allow everything to cook together for 2 more minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve and Garnish:
   • Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly grated parmesan and chopped basil for a burst of freshness.
   • Serve the creamy chicken skillet over rice, pasta, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

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Serving Suggestions:

This Creamy Chicken Skillet pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, or with a simple side salad for a complete meal. If you’re in the mood for something a bit heartier, serve it alongside garlic bread or roasted potatoes.

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Recipe Tips:

• Customize the Veggies: Feel free to swap out the bell peppers for your favorite vegetables. Mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach would all be great additions.
• Lighter Option: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.

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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 420 kcal per serving

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Enjoy this Creamy Chicken Skillet as a comforting and flavorful dinner option. It’s sure to become a family favorite in no time!

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