Creamy Pesto Chicken with Burst Cherry Tomatoes
Creamy Pesto Chicken With Burst Cherry Tomatoes
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 450 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 30g |
| Fiber | 0g |
Recipe Introduction: Creamy Pesto Chicken Magic
Fancy a dish that’s both easy and impressive? Ever wonder how to make Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted tomatoes? Honestly, it's simpler than brewing a cuppa! This recipe is a game changer.
It's bursting with flavour and a bit special.
A Taste of Italy in Your Kitchen
This Creamy Pesto Chicken Dish is inspired by Italian flavours. The vibrant pesto and sweet tomatoes create harmony. It's a quick and easy meal suitable for any night.
This Pesto Chicken With Tomatoes serves four people.
Why You'll Love This Creamy Pesto Chicken Recipe
Craving something healthy and delicious? This Easy Pesto Chicken Recipe is your answer. It's packed with protein and vitamins. Plus, Roasted Cherry Tomato Chicken is always a crowd pleaser.
Honestly, this Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is special! You'll feel like a culinary wizard, I promise. It is also a great alternative to Chicken Breast Recipes with Pesto .
The combination of fresh ingredients will blow your mind.
Okay, that said. Let's gather the stuff you need to get started on this amazing quick dish, that certainly will make you the king (or queen) of dinner time!
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Cooking!
Alright, let’s dive into what you’ll need for this Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes ! Honestly, the ingredients are pretty straightforward. Don't be intimidated, even I can do this!
Main Ingredients for the Best Pesto Chicken With Tomatoes
Here's the lowdown on the key players, measurements included:
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 pint (500g) . Quality is everything here. Get the ripest, reddest ones you can find!
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) for the tomatoes, 1 tablespoon (15ml) for the chicken. Extra virgin, naturally.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 4 (about 6 oz/170g each).
- Salt & pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.5ml) each for both tomatoes and chicken.
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120ml) . This is what makes it creamy pesto sauce , so splurge a bit!
- Prepared pesto sauce: 1/2 cup (120ml) . Fresh pesto is a game changer if you can swing it.
- Fresh basil leaves: For garnish.
Seasoning Notes to Elevate Your Creamy Pesto Chicken Dish
Let's talk about flavor! The secret's in the details.
- Essential spice combo: Salt and pepper. Don't skimp!
- Flavor enhancers: Garlic. Mince 1 clove for the tomatoes if you are feeling fancy.
- Aromatics: Fresh basil is the star. It's the perfect finish for this Pesto Chicken Breast .
- Quick sub: No fresh basil? Dried is okay in a pinch, but use half the amount.
Equipment Needed for this Easy Pesto Chicken Recipe
Keep it simple, right? You don’t need a fancy kitchen to whip up this Easy Pesto Chicken Recipe .
- Baking sheet: For roasting those gorgeous tomatoes.
- Large skillet: Non-stick makes life easier, trust me.
- Tongs: For flipping the chicken like a pro.
- Meat thermometer: Optional , but recommended to ensure the chicken reaches 165° F ( 74° C) .
- Household Alternative: No baking sheet? A roasting pan will do just fine.
So, there you have it! The ingredient list for our Roasted Cherry Tomato Chicken adventure. Honestly, grab your bits and bobs, and let's get going! I can almost smell that pesto already...
Let's Get Cooking: Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes
Honestly, this Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes is one of my go-to meals when I want something quick but impressive.
It's proper easy, and it tastes like you've been slaving away in the kitchen for hours. This Creamy Pesto Chicken Dish is bound to become a family favourite.
I promise.
Did you know that pesto originated in Genoa, Italy? It's traditionally made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Now, let's get started!
Prep Steps: Mise en Place Like a Pro
First things first, gather all your ingredients. Chop the cherry tomatoes in half. Get the chicken out and ready to be seasoned.
Measure out the Creamy Pesto Sauce . This makes the whole process so much smoother. Time saving tip: buy pre-made pesto if you're short on time.
Also, turn your oven on to 400° F ( 200° C) !
The Magic: Cooking Pesto Chicken With Tomatoes
Here's how to make this Easy Pesto Chicken Recipe :
- Toss the halved tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic on a baking sheet. Roast for 20- 25 minutes .
- Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Sear the chicken for 4- 5 minutes per side .
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and pesto.
- Simmer for 5- 7 minutes . Check that the chicken is cooked through ( 165° F/ 74° C) .
- Stir in the roasted tomatoes. Garnish with fresh basil. Ta-da!
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Breast Recipes with Pesto
Want to take your Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta to the next level? Use good quality pesto it makes a world of difference.
And don't overcook the chicken! Nobody wants dry chicken. One of my go to Quick Chicken Dinner Recipes .
Another important thing is keeping an eye on the tomatoes while they roast. They should be soft and burst, not burnt.
It is very important to find the perfect Roasted Cherry Tomato Chicken
So, there you have it. A simple, delicious, and impressive dish that's perfect for any night of the week. I really hope you enjoy this Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes as much as I do!
Recipe Notes: Nailing That Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes
Alright, you've got the recipe for Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes , but let’s chat about a few extra bits to make sure you absolutely nail it.
These are the little things that can take it from "meh" to "OMG, this is amazing!" Honestly, it’s all about the details, innit?
Serving Up Some Deliciousness
Fancy plating? Pile the Creamy Pesto Chicken Dish high on a bed of tagliatelle. Drizzle with extra Creamy Pesto Sauce for that real "chef's kiss" moment.
I reckon a sprinkle of parmesan never hurt anyone, too.
For sides, you can't go wrong with some crusty bread to mop up all that gorgeous sauce. Roasted asparagus or a simple green salad balances the richness perfectly.
A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio would be a treat, trust me!
Storage Solutions (If There Are Any Leftovers!)
Right, so if you manage to resist demolishing the entire Pesto Chicken With Tomatoes in one sitting, here's the lowdown on storage.
Pop any leftovers in an airtight container. Stick it in the fridge, and it'll be good for up to 3 days .
When reheating, a gentle simmer in a pan with a splash of milk or cream will keep it nice and saucy.
Microwaving works too, just do it in short bursts so the chicken doesn’t dry out.
Freezing? It's doable, but the cream sauce might separate a bit. I've tried it, and it's still yummy, just not quite as silky smooth.
Remixing the Recipe
Fancy a twist? For a lighter Easy Pesto Chicken Recipe , swap out the heavy cream for half and-half or even a dollop of Greek yogurt.
It’ll still be lush, just a bit less naughty.
Want to make it a Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta ? Toss with your favorite pasta!
Got some seasonal bits? Swap out the cherry tomatoes for roasted butternut squash in autumn. Yum! You could also try using turkey cutlets instead of Pesto Chicken Breast .
Nutrition Nuggets
Look, I'm no dietitian, but this Roasted Cherry Tomato Chicken is packed with protein. The pesto and tomatoes give you some good vitamins.
It's a pretty balanced meal, as far as yummy comfort food goes. Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, and tomatoes are loaded with vitamin C.
Don't feel guilty about enjoying it. Everything in moderation, eh? Also, this Quick Chicken Dinner Recipes are easy to cook!
So, there you have it! A few extra thoughts to help you create the perfect Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted .
Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Now get cooking, you legend!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make sure my chicken stays juicy when making Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes?
No one wants dry chicken! The key is not to overcook it. Use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Also, searing the chicken first helps to lock in the juices, giving it a lovely golden brown crust.
Remember to let it rest for a few minutes after cooking so the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavourful chicken.
Can I use something other than heavy cream in this Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted dish?
Absolutely! If you're watching your waistline or prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half and-half for the heavy cream. You could even try a dairy free cream alternative like cashew cream or oat cream for a vegan friendly version.
Just remember that using a lower fat option might result in a slightly thinner sauce, but it'll still be delicious!
I don't have fresh pesto. Can I still make this Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes?
Don't you worry your pretty little head. While fresh pesto definitely elevates the flavour, jarred pesto works just fine in a pinch. You can also make a quick pesto substitute by blending fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts (or walnuts), and olive oil in a food processor.
If you're feeling adventurous, try a different type of pesto, like sun-dried tomato or kale pesto, for a fun twist.
What's the best way to store leftovers of Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes?
Leftovers are your friend! Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, do it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to prevent the chicken from drying out. A splash of extra cream or broth can help rehydrate the sauce if needed.
They are perfect for lunch the next day!
Can I add any vegetables besides tomatoes to this Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted recipe?
Oh, be my guest! Roasted asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms would be fantastic additions to this dish. Toss them with the tomatoes on the baking sheet for easy roasting. Adding some spinach or kale to the sauce at the end is another great way to sneak in some extra greens.
Get creative and use whatever veggies you have on hand!
Is Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes healthy?
While delicious, it's worth noting that this recipe does contain cream and pesto, which can be high in fat. You can certainly make it healthier by using less cream, opting for a lighter alternative like half and-half, or increasing the amount of vegetables.
Serving it with a whole wheat pasta or cauliflower rice and a side salad can also help create a more balanced and nutritious meal. As Delia Smith would say, moderation is key!
