Creamy Pesto Chicken

Looking for a quick, delicious dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes? This Creamy Pesto Chicken recipe is your answer! It’s packed with vibrant flavors, satisfying textures, and requires only a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. Let’s break down how you can prepare this delightful meal.

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

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken strips with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 7-8 minutes, or until fully cooked, then remove and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce:
   In a mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, chicken broth, and pesto. Set this aside to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
   Return the skillet to heat and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add diced onion and cook for 2 minutes until it softens slightly. Add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the bell peppers and cook for about 4 minutes or until tender.
4. Combine Everything:
   Pour the pesto sauce into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Return the chicken strips to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes or until the chicken is warmed through and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   Sprinkle the dish with freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped basil for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories: 420 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Pesto Chicken combines the earthy flavor of basil pesto with succulent chicken and crisp vegetables for a perfect balance of taste and texture. Serve it with pasta, rice, or a side salad to round out the meal. Enjoy your savory, creamy dinner that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!