If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe. The tender chicken breasts dressed in a luscious, herbaceous pesto cream sauce perfectly marry with the sweet burst of oven-roasted tomatoes. It’s a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that come together in just about 30 minutes for a meal that’s as simple as it is impressive. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe delivers comfort and elegance without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, this dish shines by letting each component tell its own delicious story. From the juicy tomatoes that add vibrant color to the creamy pesto sauce that wraps everything in richness, every ingredient plays a crucial role in bringing this dish to life.
- 4 medium chicken breasts: The star protein that stays tender and soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a mellow garlic flavor that infuses the chicken subtly.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a smoky warmth and lovely color to the chicken.
- 10 oz grape tomatoes: These burst with sweetness once roasted, balancing the creamy sauce perfectly.
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped: Caramelizes into a sweet base and deepens the sauce’s flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for roasting and sautéing, enhancing richness and texture.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a punchy aromatic lift to the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt + black pepper: The basic seasonings that elevate all the ingredients.
- 1/2 cup basil pesto: Packed with fresh basil, pine nuts, and olive oil, it brings herbal brightness.
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream: Creates that silky, dreamy texture that makes this sauce ultra creamy.
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty depth and perfect savory finish.
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick if you like a little heat.
How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Roast Tomatoes
Setting the stage for flavor, preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC). Toss those juicy grape tomatoes with olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast them for about 20 minutes until their skins blister and caramelize, creating sweet, concentrated bursts that will raise the whole dish to another level.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
While the tomatoes roast, it’s time to get that chicken perfectly golden. Season the breasts generously with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for approximately 5 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully browned and cooked through. This step builds a flavorful crust that will complement the creamy sauce wonderfully.
Step 3: Prepare the Pesto Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce to medium heat and add the chopped onion to caramelize slowly, releasing its sweet flavor. Toss in the minced garlic once the onions soften and cook until fragrant. Stir in the basil pesto, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese, letting it all simmer gently. This sauce thickens into a rich, velvety coating that will cling deliciously to the chicken.
Step 4: Combine and Serve the Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe
Now, add the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet along with the roasted tomatoes. Warm everything together for a minute or two so the flavors meld harmoniously. Serve this creamy pesto chicken with roasted tomatoes recipe piping hot for an unforgettable meal that bursts with flavor and comfort.
How to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves or a few extra shavings of parmesan cheese on top can elevate the visual charm and flavor even more. For a touch of freshness, a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brightens the creamy richness delightfully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with light sides like cauliflower rice or a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttered pasta are fantastic if you want to double down on comfort food vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe over creamy polenta or alongside a bed of sautéed spinach for an extra pop of color and nutrition. For a party, spooning the sauce and tomatoes over grilled baguette slices makes a stunning appetizer feel.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners.
Freezing
This creamy pesto chicken with roasted tomatoes recipe freezes well. Just transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the dish on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the cream from curdling, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adding a splash of cream or water can help restore the sauce’s silky texture if it thickened too much.
FAQs
Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Absolutely! While grape tomatoes work wonderfully because of their sweetness and size, cherry tomatoes or even halved roma tomatoes are great alternatives. Just adjust roasting time slightly if needed.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your pesto doesn’t contain any gluten-containing ingredients. It’s always good to check your pesto label, though!
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan. The flavor will shift slightly but still be deliciously creamy and satisfying.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level is mild by default, thanks to the optional red chili pepper flakes. You can easily omit them if you prefer no heat, or increase for a bolder kick.
What wine pairs well with this recipe?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio complements the herbal notes of the pesto and the richness of the cream sauce without overwhelming the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like it was made just for sharing around the table with friends and family. It’s straightforward, full of vibrant flavors, and comes together quickly—perfect for when you want something homey yet special. I cannot wait for you to try it and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite in your meal rotation!
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Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken breasts with a rich and flavorful pesto cream sauce, paired with sweet, blistered roasted grape tomatoes. Perfect for a quick yet elegant meal, it comes together in just 30 minutes and serves four.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 medium chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Roasted Tomatoes
- 10 oz grape tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Pesto Cream Sauce
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Roast Tomatoes: Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC). Toss the grape tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a rimmed baking sheet. Roast the tomatoes for 20 minutes or until they are blistered and tender.
- Season and Cook the Chicken: While the tomatoes roast, season the chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes per side.
- Prepare the Pesto Sauce: In the same skillet, caramelize the chopped onion until softened and lightly golden. Add the minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant. Stir in the basil pesto, heavy whipping cream, and grated parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer gently to combine the flavors and thicken slightly. Add red chili pepper flakes if using, to taste.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken and roasted tomatoes to the skillet with the pesto cream sauce. Reheat everything briefly to meld the flavors. Serve the creamy pesto chicken hot, spooning extra sauce and tomatoes over the top for a delicious finish.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts if preferred, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Use fresh basil pesto for the best flavor, or make your own at home.
- Adjust red chili flakes according to your heat preference or omit for a milder dish.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- To make this dish lower fat, substitute heavy whipping cream with half-and-half or a light cream alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop and Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
