Some nights, you just need a dinner that comes together fast without skimping on flavour. This chicken with a creamy pesto sauce recipe is exactly that: tender chicken breasts, juicy tomatoes, and a light, creamy pesto sauce that tastes far more indulgent than the effort it takes to make it.
It’s a great one for busy weeknights, but it’s also easy enough to hand over to a confident older child or teen who wants to try cooking a “proper” dinner. Serve it with rice, orzo pasta, or cauliflower rice for a low-fuss family meal everyone will ask for again.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 or 5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper
- 200g / 7oz small vine or cherry tomatoes
- 3 tbsp pesto
- 1 tub crème fraîche
- Fresh basil
- Grated parmesan, optional
Method
1. Heat a large pan or shallow pot over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, then arrange the chicken in the pan. Leave the pieces to cook without moving until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
2. Turn each piece over, season with salt and pepper, then cover the pan with a lid and lower the heat slightly. Cook until the chicken is cooked through, about 12–15 minutes.
3. While the chicken is cooking, cut the tomatoes in half and mix the pesto into the tub of crème fraîche.
4. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the lid and add the tomatoes. Cook until they start to soften slightly, then add the crème fraîche mixture. Cook for a further 5 minutes, turning the chicken pieces in the sauce to coat each one.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and, if using, a sprinkle of parmesan. Serve immediately. Leftovers will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge in an airtight container.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes — you can cook the chicken and sauce ahead and gently reheat it on the hob before serving. The sauce may thicken slightly on standing, so add a splash of water or milk when reheating to loosen it.
Can I freeze chicken with creamy pesto sauce?
Cream-based sauces like this one can separate when frozen and thawed, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or kept in the fridge for up to 3 days rather than frozen.
What can I serve with this dish?
Rice, orzo pasta, or cauliflower rice all work well alongside this dish. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables also make a nice, light side.
Can I use a lower-fat alternative to crème fraîche?
You can swap in a lighter crème fraîche or natural yoghurt, though the sauce will be less rich and may need gentler heat to prevent it splitting.
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Looking for more family dinner inspiration? Take a look at our roundups of easy chicken recipes and simple family dinner ideas for more quick, crowd-pleasing meals to add to your weekly rotation.
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