This Pesto Chicken Skillet is one of those dinners that feels a little fancy while still being incredibly easy to pull together. Pesto does all the heavy lifting here, adding bold flavor with minimal effort and turning simple chicken into a meal that feels special.
Everything cooks in one skillet, making this a great option for busy weeknights when you want something fresh and satisfying without spending a ton of time in the kitchen. The tomatoes soften just enough to add brightness, while the pesto coats the chicken in rich, herby flavor.
This is a great recipe to keep in your back pocket. It’s versatile, family-friendly, and easy to serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, perfect for using what you already have on hand.
Why This Recipe Works
- Uses simple, flavorful ingredients
- One-pan dinner = easy cleanup
- Pesto adds big flavor fast
- Easy to customize with pasta, rice, or veggies
- Reheats well for leftovers
This is weeknight cooking that feels fresh, not boring.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil
- Basil pesto
- Cherry or grape tomatoes
- Salt & black pepper
Optional add-ins:
- Heavy cream (for a creamy version)
- Shredded mozzarella or parmesan
How to Make Pesto Chicken Skillet
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through.
- Reduce heat and stir in pesto until chicken is well coated.
- Add tomatoes and cook until just softened.
- For a creamy version, stir in heavy cream and cheese if using.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
How to Serve It
This dish pairs well with:
- Pasta or gnocchi
- Rice or quinoa
- Crusty bread and a simple salad
Storage & Leftovers
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave
Budget-Friendly Tip
Pesto adds a lot of flavor using just a small amount, making it an easy way to upgrade simple chicken without adding extra ingredients or cost.
Pesto Chicken Skillet
Description
This pesto chicken skillet is an easy, budget-friendly dinner made with tender chicken, basil pesto, and fresh tomatoes. Everything cooks in one pan for a flavorful, comforting meal that feels fresh without a lot of prep or cleanup.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
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Reduce heat to medium and stir in pesto until chicken is evenly coated.
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Add tomatoes and cook 2–3 minutes, just until softened.
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Stir in heavy cream and cheese for a creamy finish.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
