Kickstart your dinner routine with this creamy pesto chicken paired with juicy roasted tomatoes. It’s a dish that promises to deliver on flavor without keeping you in the kitchen all night.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of creamy pesto and juicy roasted tomatoes creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- It’s a one-pan meal, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your evening.
- Using store-bought pesto saves time without sacrificing taste.
- The chicken stays moist and tender, thanks to the creamy sauce.
- Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to the dish.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup store-bought pesto
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large oven-safe skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F. While the oven heats, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a mixing bowl, combine the pesto and heavy cream, stirring until smooth. This creamy pesto mixture will be the star of the show, so make sure it’s well blended.
Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts, searing for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown but not fully cooked through. This step locks in the juices, ensuring your chicken is succulent.
Add the Creamy Pesto
Pour the pesto cream mixture over the chicken in the skillet, making sure each breast is generously coated. The aroma at this point should be telling you you’re in for a treat. Tip: If the sauce seems too thick, a splash of chicken broth can thin it out without diluting the flavor.
Roast the Tomatoes
Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the skillet. They’ll roast in the oven, becoming soft and slightly caramelized, which adds a lovely texture and sweetness to the dish. Tip: For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle the tomatoes with a pinch of sugar before roasting.
Bake to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the tomatoes are bursting with juice. The visual cue here is the tomatoes’ skins wrinkling and the sauce bubbling around the edges.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate this dish further, consider making your own pesto from fresh basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan for an even more vibrant flavor. If you’re watching your calories, substituting the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk can lighten the dish without losing the creamy texture. Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist. For a crispier top, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the chicken for shrimp or salmon for a seafood twist.
- Add a layer of mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy version.
- Incorporate spinach or kale into the skillet for a green veggie boost.
- Use sun-dried tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes for a more intense tomato flavor.
- For a nut-free version, use a pesto made without pine nuts or substitute with sunflower seeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, but ensure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before searing to avoid excess moisture in the pan, which can prevent proper browning.
How can I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little broth or water to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to eat, let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking as directed.
Summary
This creamy pesto chicken with roasted tomatoes is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a recipe that delivers maximum taste with minimal effort.
