Creamy Garlic Pesto Chicken
A quick one-skillet chicken dinner with a rich basil pesto cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and bell peppers.
Equipment
- 12-inch nonstick skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil divided
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced into strips
- 0.5 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper adjusted to taste
- 1 small yellow onion finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes preserved in oil drained and finely chopped
- 2 small bell peppers any color, sliced into thin, long strips
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 3 tbsp basil pesto
- Fresh basil chopped, for garnishing
- Parmesan cheese grated, for garnishing
Instructions
- Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken strips with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet and cook for approximately 7 to 8 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth, and basil pesto. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is well blended. Set aside.
- Return the skillet to the stove and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onions to the skillet and saute for about 2 minutes. Following the onions, incorporate the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the skillet, cooking for an additional 30 seconds over medium-high heat, or until the mixture becomes fragrant.
- Introduce the sliced bell peppers to the skillet, continuing to cook for approximately 4 minutes, or until the peppers are tender to the fork.
- Pour the previously prepared pesto sauce mixture into the skillet, and bring to a simmer, allowing the flavors to combine.
- Add the previously cooked chicken back into the skillet, simmering for an additional 2 minutes to ensure the chicken is heated through and the sauce slightly thickens. Season with additional salt and pepper according to taste.
- To serve, garnish the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil. This dish can be served alone or accompanied by a side of pasta, rice, or crusty bread to enhance the meal.
