Delicious Pesto Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Have you ever tasted a dish that transports you straight to a sun-drenched Italian terrace? This Pesto Chicken with Parmesan Sauce is just that. Imagine succulent chicken breasts smothered in vibrant green pesto and finished off with a rich, creamy parmesan sauce. The aromatic blend of basil and cheese will awaken your senses and leave you craving more.

Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressive date nights, this dish brings together freshness and comfort in every bite. With its simple preparation, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Get ready to savor the delightful flavors that make this meal an absolute must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Pesto Chicken with Parmesan Sauce

Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in no time! With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh pesto and creamy parmesan sauce creates a flavor profile that’s both robust and comforting. Each bite is filled with the aromatic essence of basil complemented by the richness of cheese, making it an unforgettable dining experience.

Versatile Dish: Whether served over pasta, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables, this pesto chicken can adapt to whatever side dishes you enjoy. It’s also great for meal prep; simply store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.

Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the pesto, this dish offers nutrition without sacrificing taste. You’ll feel good serving it to your family while enjoying its decadent flavors.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts for this recipe, but adjust based on how many servings you need.
• Fresh Basil Pesto: Choose high-quality store-bought or homemade pesto for the best flavor; it serves as the star ingredient.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness to the sauce; opt for full-fat cream for a velvety texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan cheese for an enhanced flavor; pre-grated cheese may lack depth.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for cooking; its flavor complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors; adjust according to taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Pesto Chicken with Parmesan Sauce

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, prepare your baking dish by spraying it lightly with nonstick cooking spray.

Prepare Chicken Breasts: Season the boneless skinless chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.

Sear Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet. Sear them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Then remove them from heat temporarily.

Add Pesto Sauce: Spread a generous layer of basil pesto over each seared chicken breast in the skillet.

Pasta Cooking Method (Optional): If desired, you can cook pasta according to package instructions while preparing the chicken so everything is ready simultaneously.

Make Parmesan Sauce: In a separate saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Pour this sauce over the pesto-coated chicken in the skillet.

Bake Until Done: Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional parmesan sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: For optimal flavor, always choose fresh basil pesto and freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged options.

Don’t Overcook Chicken: Keep an eye on your chicken while it’s baking; overcooking can lead to dry meat. Use a meat thermometer if necessary.

Add Veggies: Enhance nutrition by adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes during baking; they’ll absorb those flavorful juices!

Serve Immediately: This dish tastes best right after cooking—serve it hot so that all flavors remain vibrant!

Make it Creamier!: If you prefer an extra creamy sauce, add more heavy cream along with additional cheese while preparing your parmesan sauce.

Mistakes to avoid

Not seasoning the chicken properly

One common mistake is neglecting to season the chicken before cooking. Proper seasoning enhances the flavor of the chicken, making your Pesto Chicken with Parmesan Sauce much more enjoyable. Use salt and pepper generously on both sides of the chicken. Consider marinating the chicken in pesto for at least 30 minutes before cooking to infuse even more flavor. This step is crucial for achieving a dish that is truly delicious and satisfying.

Overcooking the chicken

Another mistake is overcooking the chicken, which can lead to a dry texture. Cook the chicken breasts until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer. Typically, this takes about 6-7 minutes per side over medium heat. To avoid overcooking, consider using a skillet with a lid or basting the chicken with its juices. This will help retain moisture and keep your Pesto Chicken tender and juicy.

Skipping the Parmesan sauce

Some people may skip making the Parmesan sauce altogether, thinking it’s unnecessary. However, this sauce elevates your Pesto Chicken with Parmesan Sauce to another level. It adds richness and creaminess that complements the vibrant flavors of pesto and chicken perfectly. To make it, combine heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian herbs in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened. Don’t miss out on this crucial step!

Using store-bought pesto without enhancements

While store-bought pesto can save time, using it straight from the jar without any enhancement can lead to a lackluster flavor profile. Always consider adding fresh ingredients like lemon juice or extra garlic to brighten up store-bought pesto. You can also blend in some nuts or additional herbs for depth of flavor. Elevating your pesto will make your Pesto Chicken with Parmesan Sauce stand out even more.

Serving Suggestions

This Pesto Chicken with Parmesan Sauce is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it alongside garlic mashed potatoes for a creamy, comforting experience that complements the rich flavors of the sauce. The buttery texture of the potatoes enhances the dish, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Another great option is to pair this dish with steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. The fresh crunch and vibrant colors not only elevate the presentation but also add a healthy touch to your meal. Drizzle a bit of olive oil and sprinkle some salt before serving for an extra flavor boost.

For a lighter option, consider serving the pesto chicken over a bed of mixed greens. Toss in cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing. This refreshing salad balances the richness of the Parmesan sauce while providing a nutritious element to your meal.

If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, serve this dish with pasta. A simple spaghetti or fettuccine tossed in olive oil and garlic creates a wonderful base that absorbs all the savory flavors of the chicken and sauce. Top with additional Parmesan cheese for an extra indulgent touch.

FAQs

What can I use instead of chicken for Pesto Chicken with Parmesan Sauce?

You can easily substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Both alternatives absorb flavors well and work beautifully with pesto and Parmesan sauce. If using tofu, ensure you press it first to remove excess moisture, allowing it to soak up all the delicious flavors.

Can I make Pesto Chicken in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare Pesto Chicken with Parmesan Sauce ahead of time. Cook it completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Is Pesto Chicken suitable for freezing?

Yes, this dish freezes well! After cooking, let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as desired.

What type of pasta works best with Pesto Chicken?

While many types of pasta complement Pesto Chicken with Parmesan Sauce, fettuccine and penne are particularly popular choices. Their shapes hold onto the sauce nicely, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Don’t forget to cook your pasta al dente for optimal texture!

Conclusion

Pesto Chicken with Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and versatility, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you choose to serve it with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or over pasta, each pairing brings its own unique twist to this savory meal. Preparing this dish ahead of time is convenient; you can enjoy leftovers without losing any flavor by reheating them properly. Additionally, substituting chicken with other proteins like turkey or tofu can cater to different dietary preferences. With its ease of preparation and delectable taste, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your home!