Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s equal parts comforting and lively, Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes is your next must-try dinner. Imagine juicy pan-seared chicken enveloped in a velvety, basil-studded sauce, crowned with roasted cherry tomatoes that burst with sunshine flavor. It’s all the fresh, punchy, aromatic goodness of summer, paired perfectly with the kind of creamy decadence that transforms a weeknight meal into something truly memorable.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about simple, high-impact ingredients. Each one brings something special—whether it’s flavor, texture, or a pop of color—so don’t skip or swap without considering their roles!

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts cook up quickly and stay juicy, especially when simmered in sauce.
• Cherry tomatoes: Roasted until caramelized, these add bursts of sweetness and tartness to every bite.
• Pesto: Use homemade or your favorite store-bought brand for that signature basil-and-garlic kick.
• Heavy cream: Lends rich, dreamy smoothness that brings the sauce together beautifully.
• Olive oil: For searing the chicken and roasting the tomatoes, a good olive oil adds depth and flavor.
• Garlic: A couple of cloves, minced, infuse the sauce with warmth and aroma.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning every stage of the dish to perfection.
• Grated Parmesan: Melts into the sauce for extra umami and a subtle salty finish.
• Fresh basil leaves: Sprinkled on top for a final flourish and garden-fresh aroma.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cherry tomatoes with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast them for about 20 minutes, or until they begin to blister and caramelize at the edges. This intensifies their flavor and adds a gorgeous burst of color to your Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside on a plate—don’t worry if it’s not fully done, it will finish in the sauce.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Pesto Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium, then add minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for a minute, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in the pesto and grated Parmesan, letting everything melt together into a luscious, herby sauce.

Step 4: Simmer the Chicken in the Sauce

Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into that creamy pesto goodness. Lower the heat and let it all gently simmer for another 3-5 minutes, spooning some sauce over the chicken. The chicken finishes cooking as it absorbs all those vibrant flavors.

Step 5: Finish with Roasted Tomatoes and Fresh Basil

Top everything with the roasted cherry tomatoes and a shower of fresh basil leaves. The colors and aromas at this stage are absolutely irresistible—your Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes is ready to serve!

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes

Garnishes

Finish each plate with extra fresh basil, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, or even a little fresh-cracked black pepper. For added color and flavor, you can drizzle a touch more pesto or a few drops of good-quality olive oil over the top.

Side Dishes

This dish is heavenly alongside garlic bread or a slice of toasted sourdough, perfect for mopping up every bit of sauce. Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes also pairs well with fluffy rice, al dente pasta, or even a simple side of sautéed greens for balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party feel, try slicing the chicken and arranging it atop a platter with the sauce spooned over and tomatoes artfully scattered. Or serve over a bed of mashed potatoes or herbed quinoa for a beautiful, hearty presentation worthy of company.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any remaining Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours. Stored properly, the dish will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen as they mingle, making leftovers a real treat.

Freezing

While cream sauces can sometimes separate when frozen, you can still freeze this recipe if needed. Let everything cool completely, then store portions in freezer-safe containers for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or stock if the sauce needs loosening. Avoid microwaving on high—slow, gentle heat keeps the chicken tender and the sauce smooth. Top with extra fresh basil just before serving to revive those garden-fresh flavors.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are just as delicious in Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes. They’re a bit juicier and more forgiving, so just adjust the cook time as needed—they might need a few extra minutes on the stove.

Is store-bought pesto okay, or should I make it fresh?

Both options work beautifully here. If you have good-quality store-bought pesto, it will still deliver amazing flavor. Homemade just takes it up a notch for special occasions. The key is to choose a pesto you love, since its flavor is front and center.

What kind of cream is best for the sauce?

Heavy cream gives the most luscious texture, but half-and-half can work in a pinch if you want to lighten things up a smidge. Avoid milk, as it will make the sauce too thin and less rich.

Can I make Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes dairy-free?

Definitely! For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream (for richness) and a vegan pesto plus a sprinkle of nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan. The sauce might be a bit thinner, but the flavors will still sing.

How can I add extra veggies to this dish?

You can toss in handfuls of fresh spinach, sautéed zucchini, or even steamed broccoli during the last few minutes of simmering. The creaminess of the sauce welcomes lots of vegetables—just be sure not to overcrowd the skillet.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes enough—it’s easy, spectacularly flavorful, and looks as beautiful as it tastes. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this is a dish that always brings joy to the table. Give it a try and see how quickly it becomes a favorite in your kitchen, too!

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