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Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 596
A rich, creamy, and flavorful one-pan chicken dish made with pesto, garlic, and vibrant veggies—ready in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients

  • 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ red onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped (reserve the oil for cooking)
  • 3 bell peppers (1 red, ½ yellow, ½ green), sliced
  • ½ cup basil pesto
  • ½ cup heavy whipping cream
  • ½ cup chicken stock
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Chopped fresh basil, for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan, for garnish

Instructions 

Cook the Chicken

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of the reserved tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning, then place the chicken breasts in the skillet.
  • Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. If browning too quickly, lower the heat.
  • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the basil pesto, heavy cream, and chicken stock until well combined.

Sauté the Vegetables

  • In the same skillet, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. If needed, add a bit more of the reserved oil.
  • Sauté over medium-high heat for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add the sliced bell peppers and cook until slightly tender but still crisp.

Combine Everything

  • Pour the prepared pesto sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer.
  • Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return them to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in the sauce and let it warm through for 2-3 minutes.

Serve & Enjoy

  • Garnish with freshly chopped basil and grated Parmesan.
  • Serve immediately over pasta, rice, bulgur, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower rice.
Calories: 596kcal
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American / Italian-inspired
Keyword: Garlic Pesto Chicken