Easy Creamy Pesto Chicken Skillet Recipe

Okay, amiga, listen up! Forget boring weeknight dinners because I’m about to drop a flavor bomb on you: my Creamy Pesto Chicken Skillet! This ain’t your grandma’s chicken recipe – unless your grandma is a total rockstar in the kitchen, like me. I’m talking juicy chicken, vibrant pesto, and a creamy sauce that’ll make you wanna lick the skillet clean.

The first time I made this Pesto Chicken Skillet, I knew I had something special. My neighbor, sweet Abuela Elena, took one bite and said, “¡Ay, Quinn! This tastes like sunshine and a party in my mouth!” That’s when I knew this dish had to be shared with the world.

This Pesto Chicken Skillet is all about taking everyday ingredients and turning them into a flavor explosion. This isn’t just another meal; it’s a culinary adventure. It’s the Cuba Queen way – bold, unapologetic, and guaranteed to make your taste buds sing.

Get ready, amiga, because I’m about to share my secret for turning ordinary chicken into a celebration-worthy Pesto Chicken Skillet.

INGREDIENTS You Need for This

This Pesto Chicken Skillet ingredient list is SHORT but mighty! We’re focusing on quality over quantity here. For this amazing dish, you will need:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes. The key to juicy chicken in this Pesto Chicken Skillet? Don’t overcook it!
• 1/2 cup prepared pesto: Store-bought is totally fine in a pinch, but homemade pesto is next-level. You’ll find the best fresh basil for pesto at your local farmer’s market.
• 1 cup heavy cream: This is where the magic happens. Don’t skimp! Splurge on organic for this one Pesto Chicken Skillet ingredient – trust me
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is always best.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Extra virgin, baby.
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes: Adds a burst of tangy sweetness.
• 2 cloves garlic: Minced. Because everything’s better with garlic, right?
• 1/4 cup chicken broth: Adds a little extra moisture and flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t be shy!
• Optional: Red pepper flakes: For a little kick.

The secret to an epic Pesto Chicken Skillet is using good quality pesto. Try experimenting with different types of pesto – like a sun-dried tomato pesto or a spinach pesto.

Here’s the Pesto Chicken Skillet game-changer that will blow your mind: If you want to level up the flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end. It brightens everything up and balances the richness of the cream.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Alright, flavor adventurers, let’s get this show on the road! Don’t stress – your Pesto Chicken Skillet is going to be incredible. Just follow these simple steps and trust your taste buds.

1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. This helps the chicken brown properly in your Pesto Chicken Skillet.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Pro tip for Pesto Chicken Skillet perfection: Don’t overcrowd the skillet! Work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic, amiga!
4. Build the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds so much flavor! Then, stir in the heavy cream, pesto, and sun-dried tomatoes. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. This is where your Pesto Chicken Skillet transforms into pure magic.
5. Add the Cheese: Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. Remember, you can always add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your Pesto Chicken Skillet.
6. Combine and Simmer: Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Your Pesto Chicken Skillet should look creamy, vibrant, and utterly irresistible!
7. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil (if you have it). Serve immediately and prepare for a flavor explosion! In my kitchen, this Pesto Chicken Skillet takes exactly 30 minutes from start to finish.

Here’s where most people mess up their Pesto Chicken Skillet – but not you! Don’t overcook the sauce. You want it to be thick and creamy, not gloopy.

While your Pesto Chicken Skillet is working its magic, grab your camera – this is Instagram gold! Trust me, your followers will thank you. This Pesto Chicken Skillet reminds me of another flavor explosion, and if this recipe rocks your world, you NEED to try my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers!

PRESENTATION

People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this Pesto Chicken Skillet at casual get-togethers. It’s easy to make, looks beautiful, and tastes even better! This Pesto Chicken Skillet absolutely slays at dinner parties!

• Serve over pasta: Toss with your favorite pasta shape, like fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti. Top with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil.
• Serve with crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
• Serve over rice: A simple and satisfying option. Try serving this Pesto Chicken Skillet over brown rice for a healthier meal.
• Serve with roasted vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts are all great choices. If you’re looking for a one pan pesto chicken dish, check out this recipe from Tastes Better From Scratch, One Pan Pesto Chicken and Vegetables.
• Serve as a topping for bruschetta: Toast slices of baguette, spread with a little ricotta cheese, and top with the Pesto Chicken Skillet.

For an Instagram-worthy plating technique, swirl a little extra pesto on top of the Pesto Chicken Skillet before serving. It adds a pop of color and flavor.

This Pesto Chicken Skillet is perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. Leftovers (if there are any!) are delicious reheated or used in sandwiches.

For a seasonal Pesto Chicken Skillet variation, try adding roasted butternut squash or pumpkin in the fall. So delish!

FAQs

Okay, amiga, let’s tackle some common questions about this Pesto Chicken Skillet. I’ve tested this recipe a million times, so I’ve got you covered!

• Can I make this Pesto Chicken Skillet spicier? ¡Absolutamente! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or use a spicy pesto. I sometimes add a diced jalapeño when I sauté the garlic for extra heat in my Pesto Chicken Skillet.
• What if I don’t have heavy cream? You can substitute half-and-half or milk, but the sauce won’t be as creamy. If you’re using milk, add a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken it up for the Pesto Chicken Skillet.
• Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking. Frozen chicken tends to release more water, which can affect the consistency of the sauce.
• How do I know when my Pesto Chicken Skillet is perfectly done? The chicken should be cooked through and no longer pink inside. The sauce should be thick and creamy. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken should read 165°F.
• Can I add vegetables to this Pesto Chicken Skillet? Of course! Broccoli, bell peppers, onions, and zucchini are all great additions. Just add them to the skillet when you sauté the garlic. For more inspiration, check out Flavorful Skillet Pesto Chicken- Amee’s Savory Dish.
• Can I make this Pesto Chicken Skillet ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the Pesto Chicken Skillet up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
• Is this Pesto Chicken Skillet keto-friendly? You can modify this recipe to be keto-friendly by using a keto-friendly pesto and serving it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Chef Michael has a great keto pesto chicken recipe.

Amiga, don’t be afraid to experiment with this Pesto Chicken Skillet recipe! It’s all about making it your own and creating a flavor that you love. If you’re looking for another one pan chicken recipe similar to Pesto Chicken Skillet, check out this recipe – One Pan Chicken Feta Pomegranate!

CONCLUSION

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Skillet is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of bold flavors, simple ingredients, and the joy of cooking. It represents everything Cuba Queen stands for: unapologetic deliciousness that brings people together.

Here are my Pesto Chicken Skillet Power Tips:

• Use high-quality pesto: It makes all the difference!
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Keep it juicy and tender.
• Taste and adjust seasoning: Make it your own!

Here are a few Pesto Chicken Skillet variations I’ve created and loved:

• Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Chicken Skillet: Use sun-dried tomato pesto for a sweeter, tangier flavor.
• Spinach Pesto Chicken Skillet: Use spinach pesto for a vibrant green color and a slightly earthy flavor.
• Spicy Pesto Chicken Skillet: Add red pepper flakes or use a spicy pesto for a kick.

The Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Chicken Skillet version always gets the biggest reactions from my friends and family. It’s like a flavor fiesta in your mouth!

I’m confident that you, amiga, can make this Pesto Chicken Skillet your signature dish. It’s easy, delicious, and guaranteed to impress. And, for another way to prepare chicken, check out this easy chicken recipe!

So, go ahead, create some Pesto Chicken Skillet memories! I know you’ll absolutely slay this recipe. Don’t forget to share your results with me – I can’t wait to see your flavor creations! ✨🔥🌮

Pesto Chicken Skillet

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This Pesto Chicken Skillet is a quick and easy weeknight meal, packed with flavor from pesto, juicy chicken, and your favorite vegetables. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s ready in under 30 minutes!

• Author: Quinn
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup prepared pesto
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Optional: Fresh basil, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add bell peppers and red onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
6. Stir in pesto and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
7. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the pesto sauce.
8. If using, add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet.
9. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
10. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.
11. Serve immediately.

Notes

Serve over pasta, rice, or quinoa for a complete meal. You can also add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.