Creamy Pesto Chicken Skillet

Welcome to the ultimate guide on making the perfect Creamy Pesto Chicken Skillet! This hearty and comforting dish is a favorite among many, and for good reason. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will have you whipping up a delicious Creamy Pesto Chicken Skillet in no time.

(Note: the recipe card directly below.PDF )

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pesto Chicken Skillet

There are so many reasons to love this Creamy Pesto Chicken Skillet recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly flavorful. The combination of tender chicken, creamy pesto sauce, and perfectly cooked vegetables creates a symphony of tastes that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup for you!

But that’s not all. This dish is also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want to add more vegetables, swap out the chicken for another protein, or make it dairy-free, the options are endless.

And let’s not forget about the leftovers. This Creamy Pesto Chicken Skillet tastes even better the next day, making it the perfect meal prep option. Just reheat and enjoy!

Ingredients for Creamy Pesto Chicken Skillet

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

• boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• olive oil
• onion, sliced
• cloves garlic, minced
• (Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Variations

One of the best things about this Creamy Pesto Chicken Skillet recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few variations you might want to try:

• Vegetarian Pesto Skillet: Swap out the chicken for a plant-based alternative or add extra vegetables like mushrooms and spinach.
• Spicy Pesto Chicken Skillet: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a kick of heat.
• Dairy-Free Pesto Chicken Skillet: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and omit the Parmesan cheese.
• Pesto Chicken Pasta: Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together for a hearty pasta dish.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken Skillet

Making Creamy Pesto Chicken Skillet is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you along the way:

1. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the pesto, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Pour the sauce over the vegetables in the skillet.
6. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Add the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through.
8. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to make your Creamy Pesto Chicken Skillet even better:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables and herbs for the best flavor.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to suit your taste.
• Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) before serving.
• Freeze Leftovers: This dish freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

How to Serve

Creamy Pesto Chicken Skillet is a hearty meal on its own, but it’s even better with a few sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Bread: Serve with a crusty loaf of bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping.
• Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Pasta: Serve over your favorite pasta for a heartier dish.
• Rice: Serve over steamed rice to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Skillet is perfect for meal prepping. Here’s how to make it ahead and store it:

• Make Ahead: You can make the dish up to 3 days in advance. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Reheat: Reheat the skillet on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave.
• Freeze: To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

While this dish is best made on the stovetop, you can adapt it for the slow cooker. Brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and let it simmer on low for 6-8 hours.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs will work just as well in this recipe and may even add more flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is gluten-free. Just make sure to check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this dish freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a kick of heat.

Can I add more vegetables?

Of course! Feel free to add extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli.

Conclusion

And there you have it—the ultimate guide to making delicious Creamy Pesto Chicken Skillet. This hearty and comforting dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a satisfying lunch to meal prep, this skillet has you covered. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking! Your taste buds will thank you.

Happy cooking!

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