Creamy Pesto Chicken with Burst Cherry Tomatoes

Q: Can I use pre-made pesto for this Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes recipe? I'm a bit short on time!

Absolutely! Using pre-made pesto is a great time-saver, especially if you're rushing around like a blue-arsed fly. Just be sure to choose a high-quality brand that you enjoy – it'll make all the difference to the final flavour. If you're feeling fancy, you could even try a different flavour pesto, like sun-dried tomato, for a fun twist.

Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes Quick Italian

By Marcus O’NeillSeptember 21, 2025Updated: September 20, 2025

5.00 (1 Ratings)

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Ever stared into your fridge wondering what on earth to make? Honestly, I've been there! That's when the idea for this Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted tomatoes was born.

This recipe is so divine, it’ll make you wanna lick the plate!

Why You'll Love This Chicken Pesto Dinner

This isn't just any chicken dish. It's an Italian hug on a plate! This Chicken Pesto recipe is inspired by simple Italian home cooking, bringing that rustic charm right to your kitchen.

It's an easy weeknight chicken dinner, clocking in at around 50 minutes. This makes four generous servings, perfect for a family meal or impressing some mates.

The Creamy Pesto Magic

Seriously, what makes this recipe sing? The pesto cream sauce chicken is the real MVP. This Basil Pesto Chicken recipe is not just about convenience; it is about taste and making the most of fresh ingredients.

You get the richness of the pesto, the juicy sweetness of the roasted tomatoes, and tender chicken. It's a nutritional winner too! It packs a punch of protein and healthy fats, making it a feel good feast.

This is a Pesto Chicken Dinner that makes everyone happy!. I would argue that is something special about enjoying comfort food with a touch of elegance.

Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Ever Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes

Let's talk ingredients. Honestly, it's all about quality here. Good ingredients make for good food. You know? This recipe for Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes isn't fussy, but grabbing the right stuff makes a difference.

Main Players: Quality Matters

Cherry Tomatoes: 1 pint (500g) . Go for bright red, plump ones. Those are the sweetest! A pinch of red pepper flakes is optional.
Chicken Breasts: 4 (6 oz/170g each) . Get good quality, free range if you can. It makes all the difference.
Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml) . Full fat is the way to go for that creamy pesto goodness!
Basil Pesto: 1/4 cup (60g) . Homemade is amazing, but a good jarred pesto works in a pinch.
Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup (25g) , grated. Freshly grated is always best.

Seasoning Shenanigans: Flavor Power!

We're keeping it simple, but impactful.

Salt & Pepper: Kosher salt ( 1/2 tsp ) and black pepper ( 1/4 tsp ) for seasoning the chicken, plus to taste.
Garlic: 1 clove , minced. Essential for the roasted chicken breast and burst cherry tomatoes
Shallot: 1 , minced. Adds a touch of sweetness to the sauce. You can use onion instead if you prefer.
Chicken Broth or White Wine: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) . For deglazing the pan. Don't skip this! It adds so much flavor.

This Chicken Pesto is a symphony of flavors. It's easy to create your own spin on this Creamy Pesto recipe!.

Essential Tools: Keep It Simple

Baking Sheet: For roasting the tomatoes.
Large Skillet: Cast iron or stainless steel are best. You will need for the pan seared chicken pesto recipe .
Tongs: For flipping the chicken.
Meat Thermometer: Seriously recommended! Chicken needs to be 165° F ( 74° C) .

That's it! Nothing too fancy. Ready to make this Italian chicken dinner recipe ? Let's get cooking! I learned the hard way that skimping on the quality of the pesto can make or break this dish.

Trust me on this one! I think you and your family will agree this will be your new favorite easy weeknight chicken dinner.

Let's Talk Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes!

Honestly, who doesn't love a good Italian Chicken Dinner Recipe ? I know I do!. This Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes recipe is a total game changer.

Think of it as comfort food gone gourmet, but without all the fuss. It's perfect for a weeknight when you want something special, or for impressing your friends without slaving away in the kitchen.

It's easier than you think!.

Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row

First things first, mise en place , my friends. That basically means "everything in its place." Halve your cherry tomatoes , mince your garlic and shallots, and pat those Chicken Pesto breasts dry.

Trust me, this tiny investment upfront will save you a world of stress later. Did you know? professional chefs swear by mise en place to reduce errors by up to 75%!

step-by-step to Creamy Pesto Perfection

Roast those gorgeous tomatoes at 400° F ( 200° C) for 20- 25 minutes .
Season your chicken. A little salt and pepper goes a long way.
Sear those babies for 5- 7 minutes per side until they hit 165° F ( 74° C) .
Sauté your shallots in butter. Oh my gosh, the smell!.
Deglaze that pan with chicken broth or white wine to release all the flavour.
Stir in cream, basil pesto chicken and Parmesan. Simmer for a bit.
Return chicken to pan, spoon over sauce.
Top with tomatoes and serve! Enjoy your Pesto Chicken Dinner

Pro Tips for the Win

Want to elevate your Pesto Cream Sauce Chicken ? Try this: pat the chicken totally dry before searing. This will make the chicken get nice and golden on the outside.

Common mistake? Overcooking the chicken, It gets dry. And nobody wants dry chicken.

Remember, this Easy Weeknight Chicken Dinner is all about flavour and fun! Don't overthink it and you will get a tasty Pan Seared Chicken Pesto Recipe .

Recipe Notes for Your Perfect Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes

Right then, let's talk recipe notes for this belter of a Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted tomatoes. It's more than just a recipe; it's a whole vibe, you know? It's about making something delicious without losing your rag in the kitchen.

Serving Up a Treat

Plating and Presentation Ideas : Okay, so picture this: Chicken nestled amongst those bright, juicy chicken with burst cherry tomatoes . Drizzle a bit of extra pesto cream sauce over the top. Then, sprinkle on some fresh basil and Parmesan. Boom! Insta worthy, darling.
Complementary Sides or Beverages : Honestly, easy weeknight chicken dinner needs easy sides. Pasta is a must, right? A simple green salad works too. And a crisp white wine? Chef's kiss.

Keeping it Fresh

Refrigeration Guidelines : Leftovers? Lucky you. Pop the Chicken pesto into an airtight container and into the fridge. It'll be good for up to three days.
Freezing Options (if applicable) : Freezing this basil pesto chicken isn't ideal because the cream sauce can get a bit weird. Eat it fresh if you can.
Reheating Instructions : Gently reheat in a pan over low heat. Or, nuke it in the microwave. Just make sure it's piping hot before you tuck in.

Mixing It Up

Dietary Adaptations : Want it dairy-free? Swap the cream for coconut cream. I swear, it's still lush. For gluten-free, just serve with gluten-free pasta or rice.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps : In winter, try using sun-dried tomato pesto instead of basil. And swap the cherry tomatoes for roasted butternut squash. It is a simple Pesto Chicken Dinner .

Nutrition Nitty Gritty

Simplified Nutrition Information : We're talking roughly 550 calories per serving. Plenty of protein. And yes, there's some fat. It is healthy, tasty fat.
Key Health Benefits : The pesto is packed with antioxidants. Plus, chicken is a great source of protein. Win-win. It’s the perfect Italian chicken dinner recipe

Honestly, the Pan Seared Chicken Pesto Recipe is a winner, even if you don't follow all the instructions. I promise you will love this recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-made pesto for this Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes recipe? I'm a bit short on time!

Absolutely! Using pre-made pesto is a great time saver, especially if you're rushing around like a blue arsed fly. Just be sure to choose a high-quality brand that you enjoy it'll make all the difference to the final flavour.

If you're feeling fancy, you could even try a different flavour pesto, like sun-dried tomato, for a fun twist.

My Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes sauce is a bit thin. How do I thicken it up?

No worries, happens to the best of us! If your sauce is a little runny, you can simmer it for a bit longer on low heat to allow it to reduce and thicken naturally. Alternatively, whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce.

Remember, slow and steady wins the race when it comes to thickening sauces, so add the slurry gradually to avoid making it too thick. A dash more Parmesan can also help!

How long does Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes last in the fridge, and what's the best way to reheat it?

You can store leftover Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, it's best to do so gently. You can either microwave it in short bursts, stirring occasionally, or reheat it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out.

A little extra Parmesan grated on top when serving will freshen it up a treat!

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted recipe?

Definitely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic substitute and offer a richer, more robust flavor. Since they're a bit fattier, they're less likely to dry out during cooking. Just be sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), just like with chicken breasts.

You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, so keep a close eye on them. They'll become a lovely golden brown colour, and the resulting sauce will be even more flavourful.

Is there a dairy-free alternative to the cream in this Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes recipe?

You bet there is! You can easily swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream or a cashew cream. Coconut cream will add a subtle coconut flavour, which can be delicious, especially if you're using a vibrant pesto.

Cashew cream is another great option; soak raw cashews in hot water for about 30 minutes, then blend them until smooth with fresh water to create a creamy substitute. Both work a treat!

What should I serve with Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes to make it a complete meal?

This dish pairs beautifully with so many things! Some buttered pasta or mashed potatoes would be delicious to soak up all that lovely sauce. Alternatively, a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli would add a healthy element.

A crusty loaf of bread is always a winner for mopping up the extra sauce too waste not, want not! And if you're feeling fancy, a glass of crisp white wine would be the perfect finishing touch.