Creamy Pesto Chicken Tenders

This Creamy Pesto Chicken Tenders recipe is a rich, flavorful dish perfect for a quick dinner. Juicy chicken tenders are coated in a luscious pesto-infused cream sauce, making it a low-carb, high-protein meal that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, zoodles, or a fresh salad.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Rich & Creamy – The pesto sauce is velvety and packed with flavor.
• Low-Carb & High-Protein – Perfect for keto and balanced diets.
• Versatile – Pairs well with a variety of sides.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• ⅓ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken tenders with salt and black pepper.
3. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the remaining butter.
5. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
7. Stir in the heavy cream, pesto, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using).
8. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 3: Combine & Serve

9. Return the cooked chicken tenders to the skillet, coating them in the creamy pesto sauce.
10. Simmer for another 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
11. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately.

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Serving Suggestions

• Low-Carb Option: Serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Classic Side: Pair with pasta, mashed potatoes, or garlic bread.
• Fresh & Light: Enjoy with a side salad or roasted veggies.

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Variations & Substitutions

• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Dairy-Free: Swap out heavy cream for coconut cream and use dairy-free pesto.
• Extra Protein: Add sautéed shrimp or crispy bacon for extra flavor.
• More Veggies: Stir in cherry tomatoes or spinach before serving.

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed.

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FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes! Slice chicken breasts into strips or pound them thin for even cooking.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Store the sauce separately and reheat gently.

3. What kind of pesto works best?

Classic basil pesto is best, but you can also use sun-dried tomato or spinach pesto.

4. Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes! It’s high in healthy fats and protein with minimal carbs.

5. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Milk can work, but the sauce won’t be as thick and creamy. Try adding a bit of cream cheese for richness.

6. What other proteins can I use?

Shrimp, salmon, or tofu would work great with the creamy pesto sauce.

7. Can I make this spicy?

Yes! Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

8. Can I freeze creamy pesto chicken?

It’s best to freeze the chicken separately and make the sauce fresh, as dairy-based sauces can separate when thawed.

9. What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the rich sauce.

10. Can I make this in the air fryer?

Yes! Air fry the chicken tenders at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, then coat with the warm pesto sauce.

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