Oh my goodness, do I have a delicious treat for you today! If you’re looking for a dish that feels fancy but is ridiculously easy to make, let me introduce you to my favorite weeknight hero: **Creamy Pesto Chicken with Peppers**. This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and I swear it gets better every single time I make it! The creamy, herby richness paired with colorful bell peppers makes not only a feast for the tummy but for the eyes, too.
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a particularly chaotic week when I had about two hours to whip up dinner for some friends who dropped by (don’t you love unexpected guests?). I threw together what I had on hand, and to my surprise, it turned into a showstopper! Now, I whip it up whenever I want to impress at dinner parties or when I need something comforting after a long day.
What’s in Creamy Pesto Chicken with Peppers?
Let’s break down the ingredients that make this dish sing!
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! Chicken breasts are lean and cook up tender and juicy when sliced. I love using fresh, organic chicken whenever I can, as it really does make a difference in flavor.
Olive oil: Essential for sautéing! It gives the chicken that beautiful golden crust and is healthier than butter to boot. Extra virgin is my go-to for that lovely flavor.
Bell peppers: I use a mix – red, yellow, and green – for a burst of color and sweetness. Bell peppers not only brighten the dish but provide a nice crunch, too.
Red onion: Sweetness and a bit of bite! Red onions are perfect in this dish, caramelizing beautifully and adding a rich layer of flavor.
Heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce indulgently creamy! If you’re looking to lighten it up a bit, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
Pesto sauce: Ahh, the magic ingredient! You can use store-bought or make your own if you’re feeling ambitious. The basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese in the pesto give the sauce a gorgeous depth of flavor.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is a must! It aromatizes the dish as it cooks and adds that lush, comforting taste we all crave.
Italian seasoning: A blend of classic herbs that enhance the dish without overpowering it. If you love fresh herbs, feel free to toss in some basil or oregano!
Salt and pepper: Just the basics! Always essential for bringing out those flavors.
Fresh basil leaves: Optional but totally worth it for that fresh-from-the-garden vibe. Plus, they look fabulous as a garnish!
Is Creamy Pesto Chicken with Peppers Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about whether or not this dish has any health credentials.
Chicken: A fantastic source of lean protein, which is vital for muscle repair & growth and gives you plenty of energy to take on your day.
Bell peppers: These colorful veggies are packed with vitamins A and C, which are great for your immune system. Plus, they’re low in calories, so you can indulge without guilt.
Heavy cream: While delicious, it’s also high in calories and saturated fat. If you’re looking to cut calories, consider the alternatives mentioned earlier!
Pesto: With its healthy fats from the olive oil and nuts, this sauce is nutrient-dense and full of flavor. Moderation is key, of course.
Overall, if you watch your portion sizes, this dish can certainly fit into a balanced diet. Just maybe save it for a special treat now and then, right?
Ingredients List
– 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced
– 1/2 cup red onion, sliced
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
This recipe serves about 4 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or leftovers for lunch the next day (if there are any left!).
How to Make Creamy Pesto Chicken with Peppers?
Ready to get cooking? Here’s how you bring this beauty to life:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sliced onions. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are tender.
4. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine, then add the pesto sauce and Italian seasoning. Mix well until the sauce is heated through.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the creamy pesto sauce. Allow everything to simmer for a couple of minutes to combine the flavors.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy your creamy pesto chicken with pasta, rice, or a side salad!
Serve It Up in Style!
Don’t be afraid to get a little creative when serving this dish. I love serving it over a bed of pasta for a comfort-food vibe, or even with a side of garlic bread for dipping in that luscious pesto cream sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top can elevate it to restaurant-style!
And if you’re looking for a fresh twist, why not toss in some cherry tomatoes or spinach at the end for an extra boost of veggies?
I truly hope you give this Creamy Pesto Chicken with Peppers a whirl in your kitchen! Please, when you do, let me know how it turns out. I can’t wait to hear your delightful stories and creations! Happy cooking!
