Description
Tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich and creamy basil pesto sauce with Parmesan cheese, delivering a flavorful and satisfying Italian-inspired meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup basil pesto
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on each side, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken: Transfer the seared chicken to a plate and set aside temporarily to prepare the sauce.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Prepare the sauce: Stir in basil pesto, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to combine and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer chicken in sauce: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some sauce over them. Simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish before serving. Pair with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Notes
- This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- For added nutrition and flavor, stir in fresh spinach leaves or halved cherry tomatoes when adding the sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
