This vibrant and flavorful Gordon Ramsay Chicken Pesto is made with tender chicken breasts, fresh pesto, and a touch of cream. This recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook.
Try More Chicken Recipes
💚 Why You’ll Love This Gordon Ramsay Chicken Pesto Recipe:
- Intense Pesto Flavor: Fresh pesto (homemade or high-quality store-bought) makes this dish sing.
- Speedy Weeknight Meal: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
- Impressive Yet Simple: Elegant enough for guests, easy enough for any night.
- Versatile Protein: Pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
- Healthy & Satisfying: A balanced and delicious meal.
❓ What Is Gordon Ramsay Chicken Pesto Recipe?
Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Pesto is a simple yet sophisticated dish featuring pan-seared or grilled chicken breasts coated in a bright, herbaceous pesto sauce. It’s a quick, flavorful, and visually appealing meal ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
🍗 Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds total)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh pesto (preferably homemade, or high-quality store-bought)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for a richer sauce)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
🧆 Instructions:
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Do not overcrowd the pan sear in batches if necessary.
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the pesto and heavy cream (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes more, or until the sauce is heated through and the chicken is coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
📍 Recipe Tips
- Pesto Quality: High-quality pesto is key! Homemade pesto is always best. If using store-bought, choose a brand with fresh ingredients and vibrant color.
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooked chicken is dry chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Sear for Flavor: Searing the chicken creates a beautiful golden crust and adds flavor.
- Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.
- Flavor Boosters: Add sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to the sauce for extra flavor.
🍚 What To Serve With Chicken Pesto?
Serve chicken pesto over pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables or a fresh salad or crusty bread complements the vibrant flavors. For a heartier meal pair it with polenta or gnocchi.
🎚 How To Store Leftover Chicken Pesto?
- Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze leftover chicken pesto in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Freeze the chicken and pesto sauce separately for best results.
🥵 How To Reheat Leftover Chicken Pesto?
- In The Stovetop: Reheat leftover chicken pesto in a skillet over low heat, adding a little water or chicken broth to the sauce if needed for up 3-4 minutes.
- In The Microwave: Reheat leftover chicken pesto in the microwave but be careful not to overcook it as this can make the chicken dry for up 2-5 minutes reheat in short bursts.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this chicken pesto recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to help them sear properly and prevent them from steaming.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through for this chicken pesto?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this chicken pesto?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used. They may require slightly longer cooking time. Ensure they reach the same internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How do I make the pesto sauce thicker for my chicken pesto?
If your pesto sauce is too thin, you can simmer it gently for a few minutes to allow it to reduce. You can also add a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese to thicken it.
How do I reheat frozen chicken pesto without it drying out?
Thaw frozen chicken pesto overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water or chicken broth to the sauce to prevent the chicken from drying out. Microwaving is not recommended as it will overcook the chicken.
Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it for my chicken pesto?
Yes, grilling the chicken adds a nice smoky flavor. Grill the chicken until cooked through, then top with the pesto sauce.
More Chicken Recipes:
- Gordon Ramsay Sticky Lemon Chicken Recipe
- Gordon Ramsay Chicken Cacciatore Recipe
- Gordon Ramsay Roasted Chicken Recipe
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 381 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 613.5mg
- Fat: 18.5g
- Carbohydrates: 16.9g
- Protein: 34.7g
- Cholesterol: 92.7mg
Gordon Ramsay Chicken Pesto
Description
This vibrant and flavorful Gordon Ramsay Chicken Pesto is made with tender chicken breasts, fresh pesto, and a touch of cream. This recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Do not overcrowd the pan sear in batches if necessary.
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the pesto and heavy cream (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes more, or until the sauce is heated through and the chicken is coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Notes
- Pesto Quality: High-quality pesto is key! Homemade pesto is always best. If using store-bought, choose a brand with fresh ingredients and vibrant color.
Don’t Overcook: Overcooked chicken is dry chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Sear for Flavor: Searing the chicken creates a beautiful golden crust and adds flavor.
Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.
Flavor Boosters: Add sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to the sauce for extra flavor.