Description
Succulent “Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes” combines Italian flavors in a simple, elegant dish. Rich basil sauce and caramelized tomatoes create a Mediterranean-inspired meal that delights palates and brings comfort to your dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Seasonings and Spices:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Produce and Dairy:
- 1 pint (500 milliliters) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ¼ cup (60 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
Oils and Fats:
- 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) olive oil
- 2 tablespoons (30 grams) unsalted butter
Sauce Component:
- ⅓ cup (80 milliliters) pesto (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400F (200C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper for roasting cherry tomatoes. Drizzle tomatoes with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated and spread in a single layer.
- Roast tomatoes until they become soft and develop a slightly caramelized exterior, approximately 15-20 minutes. Once complete, transfer to a side plate and reserve for later incorporation.
- Season chicken breasts with a blend of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, ensuring thorough coverage on all surfaces.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium temperature. Carefully place seasoned chicken breasts into the hot pan, cooking each side until a golden-brown crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 165F, approximately 6-7 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside while maintaining its warmth. In the same pan, melt butter and introduce minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and releasing its aromatic essence.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Incorporate pesto and Parmesan cheese, stirring consistently until the sauce transforms into a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Return chicken to the skillet, generously coating each piece with the luxurious pesto sauce. Allow the chicken to simmer for 2-3 minutes, absorbing the rich flavors.
- Carefully arrange roasted tomatoes atop the chicken, creating a vibrant and flavorful presentation.
- Plate the chicken with your preferred accompaniment such as pasta, rice, or fresh vegetables. Optionally garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for an elegant finishing touch.
Notes
- Customize the seasoning by using dried herbs or fresh rosemary and thyme for an extra flavor boost.
- Select cherry tomatoes at peak ripeness to ensure maximum sweetness and caramelization during roasting.
- Consider using Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative to heavy cream for a healthier version of the sauce.
- Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a more tender and juicy protein option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 40 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 55 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg