Go Back
Creamy Pesto Chicken sliced in basil cream sauce with roasted asparagus

Creamy Pesto Chicken

Emily Wilson
This creamy pesto chicken is a quick and flavorful dish made with just five ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines tender chicken breasts with a velvety basil cream sauce. Simple to prepare and satisfying to eat, it’s a go-to option for healthy, high-protein dinners that don’t compromise on flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 plates
Calories 507 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 large chicken breasts cut in half lengthwise
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 0.5 cup basil pesto store-bought or homemade
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create four cutlets. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  • Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about four to five minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
  • Reduce heat to medium. Add the pesto and heavy cream to the pan. Stir until smooth.
  • Return the chicken to the skillet along with any juices. Simmer for about five minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is cooked through.
  • Serve hot with your choice of side dish such as mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh salad.

Notes

To lower the calories, you can substitute with light cream or Greek yogurt. Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra vegetables and flavor.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 507
Carbohydrates: 4 g
Protein: 27 g
Fat: 42 g
Saturated Fat: 19 g
Cholesterol: 150 mg
Sodium: 460 mg
Potassium: 476 mg
Fiber: 0.5 g
Sugar: 3 g
Vitamin A: 1 IU
Vitamin C: 2 mg
Calcium: 96 mg
Iron: 1 mg