Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes

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Quickly seared chicken breasts bask in a rich sauce of basil pesto and cream, paired with sweet, oven-roasted tomatoes for a flavorful main course. Fresh garlic and caramelized onion add depth, while a hint of parmesan brings savory richness. The entire dish comes together in under half an hour, making it perfect for weeknights. Serve the creamy chicken and roasted tomatoes over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread for a comforting, delightfully aromatic dinner that balances fresh herbs and bold, savory notes.

Barbara Chef
Updated on Mon, 16 Jun 2025 00:26:01 GMT
A pan of chicken with tomatoes and herbs. Pin it
A pan of chicken with tomatoes and herbs. | gracefulflavors.com

This creamy pesto chicken with roasted tomatoes is a go to for quick weeknight dinners when I want something vibrant and comforting but only have a half hour to spare. The rich herby sauce coats every bite and the roasted tomatoes bring bursts of sweetness that balance the cream perfectly

I remember making this for friends on a whim before an impromptu movie night Though it felt last minute it tasted like something from a fancy bistro and everyone went back for seconds

Ingredients

  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts: they cook quickly and soak up flavor look for plump even sized pieces
  • Garlic powder: adds that all over mellow garlicky depth use fresh if you want but powder is speedy here
  • Paprika: gives warmth and a golden hue smoked paprika is my favorite for an extra savory note
  • Grape tomatoes: these roast up juicy and sweet burst of freshness choose firm ripe ones for best results
  • Chopped onion: builds base flavor and a little sweetness yellow onions work beautifully
  • Olive oil: for roasting and sautéing gives richness and helps the chicken brown
  • Fresh garlic: takes the flavor up a notch I always mince it myself
  • Kosher salt and cracked black pepper: season every layer and bring out all the flavors
  • Basil pesto: the star creamy herb packed bright and a little tangy find a good refrigerated deli version or homemade
  • Heavy whipping cream: creates that luxurious sauce thicker is better for more cling
  • Grated parmesan cheese: saltiness and umami finish the sauce always grate fresh if you can
  • Red chili pepper flakes: for a touch of heat they are totally optional

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep and Roast the Tomatoes:
Preheat your oven to four hundred degrees F Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment Toss grape tomatoes with olive oil salt and pepper until every one is glossy Spread them out in a single layer and roast them about twenty minutes until some begin to burst and look blistered This deepens their flavor and caramelizes their skins
Season Chicken:
While tomatoes roast pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels Sprinkle both sides evenly with garlic powder paprika salt and pepper for an even coating
Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Once hot add the chicken in a single layer Sear for five minutes without moving this allows a golden crust to develop Flip and do another five minutes or until juices run clear and they feel firm Remove to a plate and tent loosely with foil
Cook Aromatics:
In the same skillet add chopped onion If the skillet seems dry drizzle in a little more oil Sauté onions over medium low until translucent and caramelized about four minutes Add minced garlic stir constantly until fragrant just thirty seconds
Build the Sauce:
Add pesto to the onion and garlic mixture and stir so everything is glossy Pour in the heavy whipping cream and sprinkle in the grated parmesan Stir well then simmer for about three minutes until the sauce thickens slightly
Finish with Chicken and Tomatoes:
Nestle the cooked chicken breasts and roasted tomatoes into the skillet with the creamy pesto sauce Reheat for two minutes spooning sauce over the chicken to coat Serve hot with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of chili flakes if you like heat
Chicken with tomatoes and herbs. Pin it
Chicken with tomatoes and herbs. | gracefulflavors.com

The first time I tried making this with homemade pesto it blew me away There is nothing like the smell of basil garlic and parmesan melting into cream My sister and I laughed about how we kept sneaking spoonfuls of the sauce straight from the pan before serving

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days The sauce may thicken so add a splash of cream or milk when reheating I prefer to gently reheat in a skillet rather than a microwave to preserve the chicken’s juiciness

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find grape tomatoes any cherry tomato will do For a lighter option swap heavy cream with half and half or full fat coconut milk If someone does not eat chicken boneless turkey or even tofu work as great stand ins

Serving Suggestions

A pan of food with tomatoes and chicken. Pin it
A pan of food with tomatoes and chicken. | gracefulflavors.com

This is perfect over a bed of al dente pasta rice or creamy mashed potatoes Fresh crusty bread works for scooping up that extra sauce For a low carb option serve with sautéed spinach or roasted cauliflower

Cultural Context

Pesto comes from the Liguria region of Italy Traditionally pounded in a mortar with basil pine nuts garlic and cheese it brings that classic sunny herbal flavor Chicken with creamy sauces pops up across many cuisines but the combination here gives a modern Italian inspired twist with American weeknight ease

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute chicken thighs for breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well. Adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they cook through and remain juicy.

→ How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce a minute or two longer, or add a little extra parmesan to achieve a thicker texture.

→ Is homemade pesto necessary?

Store-bought pesto is convenient and tasty, but homemade pesto adds a fresher flavor if you have the time.

→ What sides pair best?

Pasta, rice, polenta, or rustic bread complement the creamy sauce and soak up the vibrant flavors.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 2–3 days. Gently reheat to preserve the sauce’s creaminess.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms can be added for extra nutrients and texture. Stir them in during simmering.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Tomatoes

Chicken breasts simmered in creamy pesto with roasted tomatoes deliver fresh, vibrant flavors in just minutes.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
By: Barbara

Category: Hearty Mains

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Italian-American

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 4 medium chicken breasts
02 1 teaspoon garlic powder
03 1 teaspoon paprika
04 10 ounces grape tomatoes
05 1/2 medium onion, chopped
06 2 tablespoons olive oil
07 3 cloves garlic, minced
08 1/4 teaspoon salt
09 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10 1/2 cup basil pesto
11 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
12 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
13 1/2 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss grape tomatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and black pepper on a rimmed baking sheet. Spread tomatoes evenly and roast for 20 minutes until blistered.

Step 02

Pat chicken breasts dry and season all sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 03

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken breasts until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 04

In the same skillet, cook chopped onion until slightly caramelized, adding more oil if needed. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 05

Add basil pesto to the skillet and combine with onions. Stir in heavy whipping cream and grated parmesan cheese, mixing gently. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 06

Return seared chicken and roasted tomatoes to the skillet. Reheat for 2–3 minutes in the sauce. Garnish with red chili pepper flakes if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

  1. Allow the chicken to rest briefly before slicing for juicier results.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large oven-safe baking sheet
  • Large skillet
  • Sharp chef's knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (cream, parmesan cheese)
  • Contains nuts (potentially in basil pesto)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 425
  • Total Fat: 25 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 8 g
  • Protein: 41 g