Poached Chicken Breasts with Arugula Pesto Sauce Recipe

Poached Chicken Breasts with Arugula Pesto Sauce Recipe

  • 3 cups packed arugula (about 3/4 pound), washed well and spun dry
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted golden and cooled
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large garlic clove, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup hot water plus additional if desired
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 3 whole boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 1/4 pounds), halved
  1. In a food processor pulse together all sauce ingredients except oil and water until arugula is chopped fine. With motor running add oil in a stream, blending mixture until smooth. Sauce may be made up to this point 1 week ahead and chilled, its surface covered with plastic wrap. Bring sauce to room temperature to continue. Stir in 1/4 cup hot water plus additional for thinner consistency if desired.
  2. In a 6-quart saucepan bring broth and water to a boil. Add chicken and simmer, covered, 9 minutes. Remove pan from heat and let chicken stand in cooking liquid, covered, until cooked through, about 20 minutes. Chicken may be poached 1 day ahead, cooled completely, uncovered, in cooking liquid, and chilled, covered. Bring chicken to room temperature to continue. Drain chicken and slice 1/4 inch thick. Serve chicken with sauce.