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When it comes to quick yet flavorful meals, few dishes can rival the allure of Creamy Basil Pesto Chicken Delight. This dish is not just a feast for the taste buds; it captures the essence of Italian culinary tradition, combining the vibrant, aromatic notes of fresh basil with the savory depth of chicken. The result is a dish that is not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor, making it a favorite among home cooks and gourmet chefs alike.

Creamy Basil Pesto Chicken

Discover the joy of cooking with Creamy Basil Pesto Chicken Delight, a dish that beautifully combines juicy chicken breasts with a rich, aromatic basil pesto sauce. This recipe celebrates fresh ingredients and Italian culinary tradition, making it perfect for home cooks and gourmet chefs alike. With vibrant flavors and an indulgent creamy texture, this meal is visually stunning and packed with nutrition. Dive into this culinary experience and elevate your dining table today!
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Ingredients
  

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/4 cup heavy cream

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Optional: Cherry tomatoes, halved, for serving

Instructions
 

Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor, combine the packed basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Pulse the mixture until everything is finely chopped and thoroughly combined, forming a coarse paste.

    Incorporate Olive Oil: With the food processor running, gradually drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. Continue processing until the pesto is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Set the pesto aside for later use.

      Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add a splash of olive oil to the skillet to coat the bottom, then carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked (ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F).

        Add Creaminess: Once the chicken is cooked through, reduce the skillet's heat to low. Pour the prepared basil pesto over the chicken and gently stir in the heavy cream. Mix until the chicken is beautifully coated in the sauce and warmed through, allowing the flavors to meld together.

          Plate and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the creamy basil pesto chicken to serving plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, and for added color and flavor, serve alongside halved cherry tomatoes.

            Enjoy Your Meal: Serve this delicious chicken hot, paired with pasta, crusty bread, or over a bed of fresh greens for a delightful and satisfying meal!

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 2