Chicken Alfredo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Learn how to make the best creamy pesto chicken with this easy, step-by-step guide. Packed with Italian flavors and simple to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners!

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Introduction

Welcome to your new favorite weeknight dinner! This creamy pesto chicken with roasted tomatoes combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, velvety pesto cream sauce and sweet, burst cherry tomatoes that add the perfect balance of acidity. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal that’s impressive enough for guests yet simple enough for busy weeknights. The luscious sauce clings to every bite of chicken, while the roasted tomatoes add pops of juicy sweetness. If you’ve been searching for the perfect homemade pesto chicken recipe that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, you’ve found it!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pesto Chicken

• Ready in just 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights!
• One-pan recipe – minimal cleanup makes this the best way to make creamy pesto chicken at home
• Versatile dish – pairs with pasta, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal
• Impressive enough for guests – looks and tastes like it took hours to make
• Customizable – easily adapt with different herbs or add-ins
• Kid-friendly – the creamy sauce is a hit with picky eaters
• Perfect for meal prep – stores and reheats beautifully
• High-protein – satisfying and nutritious main dish
• Naturally low-carb – fits into keto and low-carb eating styles

Ingredients for Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Roasted Tomatoes:

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Pesto Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Garnish:

• Fresh basil leaves, torn
• Extra Parmesan cheese, grated
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Dietary Swaps:

• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream
• For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream and dairy-free pesto
• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat
• Add spinach or kale to boost vegetable content

How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If they’re very thick, pound them to an even thickness (about 3/4 inch) for more even cooking.
2. Season both sides of the chicken with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

Step 2: Roast the Tomatoes

1. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil.
2. Add the cherry tomatoes and minced garlic to the pan.
3. Season with dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to burst and release their juices.
5. Using a slotted spoon, remove the tomatoes from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

1. In the same skillet over medium heat, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
3. Add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Stir in the basil pesto and allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken.
5. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and incorporated.
6. Stir in the lemon juice and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
2. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken and allow to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the roasted tomatoes back to the skillet, scattered around the chicken.
4. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese.
5. Serve immediately with your choice of side dish.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Creamy Pesto Chicken

• Use room temperature chicken – taking the chill off helps it cook more evenly
• Don’t crowd the pan when cooking the chicken – cook in batches if needed for proper browning
• Use homemade pesto for the freshest flavor, but high-quality store-bought works well too
• Let the sauce reduce properly – patience is key for developing a thick, creamy texture
• Use freshly grated Parmesan – pre-shredded doesn’t melt as smoothly
• Add the lemon juice at the end – this preserves the bright flavor
• For extra flavor, deglaze the pan with white wine before adding the broth
• Can I make creamy pesto chicken ahead of time? Yes, but add fresh herbs right before serving
• What is the secret to the best creamy pesto chicken? Using high-quality pesto and allowing the sauce to reduce properly

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Pesto Chicken

This creamy pesto chicken with roasted tomatoes is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with:

• Al dente pasta – fettuccine, linguine, or penne catch the sauce perfectly
• Fluffy white rice or herbed rice pilaf
• Creamy polenta for an Italian-inspired meal
• Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli
• Crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
• Crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce
• Zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb option
• Pair with a glass of crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc for the complete dining experience

The best way to serve creamy pesto chicken is family-style, right in the skillet, allowing everyone to help themselves to the perfect amount of sauce and those delicious roasted tomatoes.

Nutritional Information for Creamy Pesto Chicken

Per serving (1 chicken breast with sauce and tomatoes):

• Calories: 520 kcal
• Protein: 42g
• Carbs: 6g
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Cholesterol: 195mg
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g

This low-carb creamy pesto chicken fits well into keto and low-carb diets. The high protein content makes it satisfying and perfect for those watching their carbohydrate intake.

Storage & Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store leftover creamy pesto chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While you can freeze this dish, the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. For best results, freeze the chicken separately from the sauce. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave on 50% power in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• How long does creamy pesto chicken last in the fridge? When properly stored in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for 3 days.
• Can I meal prep this recipe? Absolutely! Make a double batch and portion it with rice or pasta for easy lunches throughout the week.

FAQs for Creamy Pesto Chicken

Can I freeze creamy pesto chicken?

Yes, but freeze the chicken and sauce separately for best results. The sauce may separate slightly when thawed, but gently reheating while whisking can help restore its creamy texture. Consume within 2 months of freezing.

What can I use instead of heavy cream in creamy pesto chicken?

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt. For dairy-free options, use full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream. The sauce won’t be quite as rich but will still be delicious.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative and often result in juicier meat. Adjust cooking time accordingly, as thighs typically take a bit longer to cook through.

Is creamy pesto chicken keto-friendly?

Yes, this creamy pesto chicken recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, making it suitable for a ketogenic diet. Just be sure to pair it with low-carb sides like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Related Recipes

If you love this creamy pesto chicken with roasted tomatoes, try these other delicious chicken recipes:

• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
• One-Pan Tuscan Chicken with Spinach
• Chicken Alfredo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
• Herb-Roasted Chicken and Vegetables
• Creamy Mushroom Chicken

Conclusion & Call to Action

Now you know how to make the best creamy pesto chicken with roasted tomatoes at home! This simple yet impressive dish transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a restaurant-worthy meal that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The combination of creamy pesto sauce and juicy burst tomatoes creates a flavor profile that’s impossible to resist.

Have you tried making this creamy pesto chicken recipe? We’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below and share your experience or any creative variations you tried. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who appreciate easy yet delicious meals.

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Tags: creamy pesto chicken, chicken with pesto sauce, roasted tomato chicken, easy chicken dinner recipes, one-pan chicken recipes, keto chicken recipes, low-carb dinner ideas

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