Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 medium chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 10 oz grape tomatoes
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Oils and Spices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes (optional)
Sauce
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry, then season them evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
- Roast the Tomatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the grape tomatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Roast for about 15-20 minutes or until they start to blister and soften.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Cook the Chicken: Push the aromatics to the side of the skillet, add the seasoned chicken breasts, and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken from skillet and keep warm.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to low and stir in the basil pesto, heavy whipping cream, Parmesan cheese, and red chili pepper flakes if using. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet and spoon the roasted tomatoes into the sauce. Let everything simmer together for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream and Parmesan with coconut cream and nutritional yeast, respectively.
- You can use fresh tomatoes instead of grape tomatoes if preferred; cherry tomatoes also work well.
- If you like a spicier dish, increase the red chili flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, pasta, or crusty bread to complete your meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian