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Homemade Creamy Pesto Chicken (Dairy-Free, Paleo, Keto) photo

Creamy Pesto Chicken (Dairy-Free, Paleo, Keto)

This Creamy Pesto Chicken is a flavor-packed dish that's quick, easy, and suitable for various dietary needs!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:
  • 1 to 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup basil pesto sauce *
  • 1 Tbsp avocado oil
  • 1 Tbsp additional pesto sauce *
  • 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk
  • 1 tsp sea salt to taste
  • Pinch black pepper to taste
  • 1 Tbsp gluten-free all-purpose flour or tapioca flour (optional)
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes drained

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

Method:
  1. Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This ensures a nice sear. Season both sides with sea salt and black pepper.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the additional tablespoon of pesto sauce and stir it for about 30 seconds to bring out its flavors. Then, pour in the full-fat canned coconut milk, stirring to combine everything well. If you’re using gluten-free flour or tapioca flour, sprinkle it in now and mix well to avoid lumps.
  4. Add the drained sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce, allowing them to soak in the flavors for about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy pesto sauce over them. Allow everything to simmer together for about 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated through and well coated in the sauce.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or onion while sautéing the chicken.
  • Top the dish with fresh basil or nutritional yeast for added taste.
  • Adjust seasonings to your preference and feel free to add extra veggies.