Pesto Chicken Skillet Supper
Try this Pesto Chicken Skillet Supper recipe
Try this Pesto Chicken Skillet Supper recipe
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cups chopped kale
- juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 small red onion thinly sliced
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-i
- 1 large zucchini, halved and sliced into 1/4-inch half-mo
- 1 large summer squash, halved and sliced into 1/4-inch ha
- 1/2 cup yellow cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup red grape tomatoes halved
- 2 ears corn shucked and kernels removed
- 1/4 cup store-bought basil pesto
- one 5-ounce parmesan wedge grated
- Carbohydrate 17.4888437502644 g
- Cholesterol 10.1893750129832 mg
- Fat 5.11987500423009 g
- Fiber 2.19775000255555 g
- Protein 2.63799375019427 g
- Saturated Fat 2.04106000228262 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (153g)
- Sodium 598.983750003616 mg
- Sugar 15.2910937477089 g
- Trans Fat 0.304500000200414 g
- Calories 116 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Add the olive oil to the skillet, throw in the chicken and brown on all sides, 4 to 5 minutes.
- Remove and reserve.
- Add the onions, zucchini and squash and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Move those vegetables to the edges of the skillet and add the kale, tomatoes, corn and garlic.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the kale turns bright green, an additional 1 to 2 minutes.
- In a small bowl, stir together the pesto and cream.
- Return the chicken to the skillet along with any juices.
- Add the pesto cream and reduce the heat to medium.
- Cook, stirring, for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the lemon juice and grated Parmesan.
- Enjoy.
Pesto Chicken Skillet Supper: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping the house running smoothly, the thought of spending hours in the kitchen is often overwhelming. That's why I've become a huge fan of one-pan wonders – recipes that minimize cleanup and maximize flavor. This Pesto Chicken Skillet Supper is a perfect example. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, requires minimal prep, and tastes absolutely fantastic.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Tender chicken breasts are browned to perfection and then nestled amongst a vibrant medley of summer vegetables: zucchini, squash, kale, and sweet corn. The secret ingredient? A luscious pesto cream sauce that brings everything together in a symphony of flavor. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the slightly crispy chicken and the fresh, vibrant vegetables. It’s a delicious balance of textures and tastes that satisfies my cravings without sacrificing time or effort.
Why this recipe works for busy weeknights:
- One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup is a major win on busy evenings.
- Quick cooking time: Dinner's on the table in under 30 minutes.
- Healthy and delicious: Packed with protein and vegetables, it's a nutritious and satisfying meal.
- Adaptable: Feel free to substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand. Broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach would all work well.
Beyond the Weeknight:
While this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s versatile enough for other occasions too. It's impressive enough to serve to guests, and it's also easily adaptable for meal prepping. Simply double the recipe and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. The flavors actually improve upon standing, making it even more delicious the next day.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use fresh ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish. Opt for fresh herbs and vegetables whenever possible.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure your chicken and vegetables have enough space to brown properly. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Adjust seasoning to your liking: Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to suit your taste preferences.
- Serve with a side: While this dish is complete on its own, a side of crusty bread is a great way to soak up the delicious pesto cream sauce. A simple green salad would also complement the dish nicely.
This Pesto Chicken Skillet Supper is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the power of simple, delicious food that fits into even the busiest of lives. It's a meal that nourishes both body and soul, proving that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. So next time you're short on time but craving a satisfying dinner, reach for this recipe. You won't be disappointed!
