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Balsamic Chicken with Creamy Pesto Rice

Balsamic Chicken with Creamy Pesto Rice
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Balsamic Chicken with Creamy Pesto Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring tender, juicy chicken glazed in a tangy balsamic reduction, paired with luscious herb-infused creamy pesto rice. This recipe offers a perfect balance of tangy, creamy, and savory tastes with simple fresh ingredients, making it ideal for cozy family dinners or impressing guests effortlessly.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 chicken breasts or thighs (skinless)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar

For the Creamy Pesto Rice:

  • 1 cup Arborio or Jasmine rice
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth (or water as per rice cooking instructions)
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • ¼ cup pine nuts or walnuts
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Balsamic Glaze: Start by simmering ½ cup balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar in a small pan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture thickens into a syrupy glaze that will beautifully coat the chicken.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown on the outside and cooked through. As they finish cooking, brush the chicken generously with the prepared balsamic glaze to lock in flavor.
  3. Make the Creamy Pesto: In a food processor, combine 1 cup fresh basil leaves, 2 cloves garlic, ¼ cup pine nuts or walnuts, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth to make the pesto. Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt until the mixture is luxuriously creamy.
  4. Cook the Rice: Prepare 1 cup Arborio or Jasmine rice according to package instructions using broth or water. Once cooked, gently fold in the creamy pesto mixture to coat the rice evenly without breaking the grains.
  5. Plate and Serve: Arrange the balsamic chicken pieces over or beside a generous serving of creamy pesto rice. Drizzle any remaining balsamic glaze on top for an elegant and flavorful finish.

Notes

  • Use fresh basil for the most vibrant pesto flavor.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan when searing chicken to ensure a caramelized crust.
  • Simmer balsamic vinegar gently to avoid burning the glaze.
  • Cook rice until slightly firm to maintain texture when mixing with pesto.
  • Prepare pesto ahead of time and store in the refrigerator to save time.
  • For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and parmesan with nutritional yeast.
  • Vegetarian option: Swap chicken for grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu.
  • For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the balsamic glaze or chili to the pesto.
  • Try different nuts like almonds or cashews to alter flavor and texture.
  • Brown rice can be used as a healthier, whole grain option.

Nutrition

Keywords: balsamic chicken, creamy pesto rice, balsamic glaze, pesto rice, easy dinner, gluten free, Italian inspired, herb chicken

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/balsamic-chicken-with-creamy-pesto-rice/