Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken: Easy Recipe & Cooking Tips

Creamy sun dried tomato chicken, a dish that’s about to become your new weeknight obsession! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts bathed in a luscious, sun-dried tomato infused cream sauce. It’s a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and sophisticated, and trust me, it’s far easier to make than it sounds.

While not steeped in centuries of tradition, this recipe draws inspiration from the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, where sun-dried tomatoes are a culinary staple. They bring a concentrated sweetness and tangy depth that elevates simple dishes to something truly special. Think of it as a modern twist on classic Italian comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in or a dinner party that’s sure to impress.

What makes creamy sun dried tomato chicken so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the chicken, while the sun-dried tomatoes offer a delightful chewiness and burst of flavor. People adore this dish because it’s incredibly flavorful, relatively quick to prepare, and satisfyingly rich without being overly heavy. Plus, it’s versatile! Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete and delicious meal. I know you’ll love it!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained (reserve 2 tbsp of the oil)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but recommended)
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• Cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, for serving

Preparing the Chicken:

1. First, let’s get the chicken ready. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear. Season them generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – it’s crucial for flavor!
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is nice and hot before adding the chicken. This will help create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
3. Carefully place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. If you have a smaller skillet, you might need to cook the chicken in batches. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
4. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Tent it loosely with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the sauce.

Making the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce:

1. Now for the star of the show – the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce! In the same skillet (don’t wash it – those browned bits are flavor gold!), melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped shallot to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until it’s softened and translucent. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. The aroma should be amazing at this point!
4. If you’re using white wine (and I highly recommend it!), pour it into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This is called deglazing, and it adds a ton of flavor to the sauce. Let the wine simmer for a minute or two, until it’s reduced slightly.
5. Add the drained sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for a couple of minutes, allowing their flavors to meld with the shallots, garlic, and wine.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and the flavors to concentrate.
7. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Be careful not to boil the cream, as it can curdle.
8. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the chopped fresh basil. The cheese will melt into the sauce, making it even creamier and richer.
9. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. This is optional, but it adds a nice kick.
10. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the Parmesan cheese is already salty, so start with a small amount of salt and add more as needed.
11. Let the sauce simmer gently for a few more minutes, until it’s thickened to your desired consistency. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to thin it out. If it’s too thin, you can let it simmer for a bit longer to reduce it.

Bringing It All Together:

1. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce.
2. Spoon the sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated.
3. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a few minutes, allowing it to warm through and absorb the flavors.
4. Serve the creamy sun-dried tomato chicken over your favorite cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. I personally love it with fettuccine or linguine.
5. Garnish with extra chopped fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
6. Enjoy your delicious and easy creamy sun-dried tomato chicken!

Tips and Variations:

• Chicken Thighs: You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. They will take a bit longer to cook, but they are incredibly flavorful and juicy.
• Spinach: Add a handful of fresh spinach to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. It will wilt down and add a boost of nutrients.
• Mushrooms: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the shallots and garlic for an earthy flavor.
• Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary.
• Lemon Juice: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce for a bright and tangy flavor.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Paste: For a more intense sun-dried tomato flavor, add a tablespoon of sun-dried tomato paste to the sauce.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
• Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier dish.
• Slow Cooker Option: You can also make this dish in a slow cooker. Sear the chicken breasts first, then place them in the slow cooker with all the sauce ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Pair it with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Serve it over zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
• Add a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

• Calories: 550-650
• Protein: 40-50g
• Fat: 35-45g
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g

Conclusion:

This Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! From the rich, tangy sun-dried tomatoes to the velvety cream sauce, every bite is a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. I truly believe this dish elevates simple chicken to something truly special, and that’s why I urge you to give it a try.

But why is this recipe a must-try? It’s simple: it’s incredibly easy to make, even on a busy weeknight. The ingredient list is relatively short and accessible, and the cooking process is straightforward. Plus, the results are restaurant-quality, impressing your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of the savory chicken, the bright acidity of the sun-dried tomatoes, and the luxurious cream sauce creates a balanced and satisfying meal that everyone will love. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this recipe is also incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your taste. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor. You can also add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra nutrients and flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

* Serve it over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta, like fettuccine or linguine, to soak up all that delicious sauce.
* Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts, for a complete and balanced meal.
* Serve it with a crusty loaf of bread to mop up every last drop of the creamy sauce.
* For a lighter option, serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
* Consider a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to complement the richness of the chicken.

Variations to Explore:

* Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a more complex flavor.
* Use different types of cheese, such as Parmesan, mozzarella, or goat cheese, to create unique flavor profiles.
* Add fresh herbs, such as basil, oregano, or thyme, to the sauce for a burst of freshness.
* Try using chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a richer, more flavorful dish.
* For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas.

I’m confident that you’ll love this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken as much as I do. It’s a recipe that I keep coming back to time and time again, and I’m excited for you to experience its magic. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece!

I can’t wait to hear about your experience with this recipe! Please, don’t hesitate to share your photos, comments, and variations in the comments section below. Let me know what you think, what you changed, and how it turned out. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to continue creating delicious and easy-to-follow recipes for you. Happy cooking!