Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Deliciously Simple Meal

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Looking for a quick and tasty dinner idea? This Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken is just what you need! It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and will impress your family or guests. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll create a delicious meal that feels gourmet. Get ready to savor a creamy sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes and tender chicken. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Delicious Flavor Combination: The rich creaminess paired with the tangy sun-dried tomatoes creates a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress.
  2. Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor.
  3. Versatile Ingredients: With simple ingredients that you can easily find, this dish allows for substitutions based on what you have on hand.
  4. Impressive Presentation: Garnished with Parmesan cheese and vibrant spinach, this dish looks as good as it tastes, perfect for entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup chicken broth

These main ingredients create the heart of the dish. The chicken breasts give you a nice protein base. Sun-dried tomatoes add a bright, tangy flavor. Heavy cream makes the dish rich and smooth. Chicken broth enhances the sauce and keeps it moist.

Aromatics and Seasonings

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 medium onion, finely chopped

– 1 teaspoon dried basil

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– Salt and pepper to taste

Aromatics like garlic and onion are key for flavor. They create a lovely base for the sauce. Dried basil and oregano add depth. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper. This step is vital to bring out all the flavors.

Optional Ingredients

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 cup spinach leaves (optional)

– Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Using olive oil helps cook the chicken perfectly. Spinach adds color and nutrients. Grated Parmesan cheese on top gives a nice finish. You can skip these extras if you want, but they enhance the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

First, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in the skillet. Cook for about 5–7 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Check that the chicken is cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

Creating the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Cook it until it becomes translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic. Cook for one more minute until you smell its great aroma. Next, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, dried basil, and oregano. Let this mixture cook together for about 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly. Now, lower the heat and add the heavy cream. Stir constantly until everything is well combined.

Combining Ingredients

If you want, add the spinach leaves to the sauce. Let them wilt for a minute. Now, return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to mix all the flavors. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Enjoy your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Chicken

To cook tender chicken, choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook evenly and stay juicy. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking. Heat your skillet to medium heat. This helps seal in moisture. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color.

To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. If you don’t have one, cut into the chicken. It should be white, not pink. After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy.

Enhancing the Sauce

You can make the sauce even better! Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. These add a nice touch of flavor. A splash of lemon juice can also brighten the dish. If you want a thicker sauce, simmer it longer. This reduces the liquid and intensifies the flavors. You can also add a little cornstarch mixed with water. This will help the sauce thicken quickly.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with tasty sides. Pasta or rice makes a great base for the sauce. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. For presentation, place the chicken on a plate and spoon the sauce on top. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a nice finish. If you have fresh basil, a few leaves on top look great too!

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor in your dish.
  2. Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the herbs according to your taste; adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
  3. Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure the chicken is not overcrowded in the skillet to achieve an even golden-brown sear.
  4. Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance; simply reheat gently on the stovetop before serving for a quick meal.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can switch up the chicken type in this dish. Boneless thighs work well, too. They add a richer flavor and remain moist during cooking. You can also use turkey or even tofu for a plant-based option.

If you don’t have heavy cream, don’t worry! You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version. Both keep the dish creamy while adding different flavors.

Flavor Variations

Adding herbs can change the taste. Try fresh thyme or rosemary for a new twist. These herbs give the dish a bright, fresh flavor. You can also use red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Incorporating vegetables makes this meal even better. Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for more color and nutrients. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for a full, rich taste.

Dietary Modifications

To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free chicken broth. Check the label on the sun-dried tomatoes, too. Most are gluten-free, but it’s good to confirm.

For low-calorie options, use skinless chicken and replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream. This keeps it creamy while cutting calories. You can also serve it with a salad instead of pasta.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure the dish is cool before sealing it. This helps avoid moisture buildup. It lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space in the container for expansion. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, heat it on the stove over low heat. Stir often to ensure it warms evenly.

Meal Prep Ideas

You can prepare this dish in advance for busy weeks. Cook a batch and store it in portions. This way, you have easy meals ready to go. Use small containers for single servings. This makes reheating quick and easy. Plus, it helps you avoid waste.

FAQs

Common Questions About the Recipe

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. However, sun-dried tomatoes add a strong flavor. If you use fresh ones, you may need to cook them longer to get a similar taste.

What can I serve with Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken?

This dish pairs well with pasta or rice. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. These sides balance the creamy sauce well.

Cooking and Ingredient FAQs

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can. Use coconut cream or a nut-based cream. These options will keep the creamy texture without dairy.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

Vegetable broth works great as a substitute. You can also use water with some herbs for flavor.

General Cooking FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can cut into it to check that the juices run clear.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce without flour?

You can add more heavy cream or let the sauce simmer longer. This reduces the liquid and makes it thicker naturally.

This recipe for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken is both simple and delicious. We covered everything from the main ingredients to optional add-ins that can boost flavor. Remember to cook the chicken just right and make the sauce creamy and rich. You can easily modify this dish for different diets or tastes. Lastly, it stores well for leftovers or meal prep. Enjoy making this meal, and remember, cooking is fu

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup chicken broth These main ingredients create the heart of the dish. The chicken breasts give you a nice protein base. Sun-dried tomatoes add a bright, tangy flavor. Heavy cream makes the dish rich and smooth. Chicken broth enhances the sauce and keeps it moist. - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and pepper to taste Aromatics like garlic and onion are key for flavor. They create a lovely base for the sauce. Dried basil and oregano add depth. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper. This step is vital to bring out all the flavors. - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 cup spinach leaves (optional) - Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish Using olive oil helps cook the chicken perfectly. Spinach adds color and nutrients. Grated Parmesan cheese on top gives a nice finish. You can skip these extras if you want, but they enhance the dish. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in the skillet. Cook for about 5–7 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Check that the chicken is cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Cook it until it becomes translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic. Cook for one more minute until you smell its great aroma. Next, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, dried basil, and oregano. Let this mixture cook together for about 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly. Now, lower the heat and add the heavy cream. Stir constantly until everything is well combined. If you want, add the spinach leaves to the sauce. Let them wilt for a minute. Now, return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to mix all the flavors. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Enjoy your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken! To cook tender chicken, choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook evenly and stay juicy. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking. Heat your skillet to medium heat. This helps seal in moisture. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color. To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. If you don’t have one, cut into the chicken. It should be white, not pink. After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. You can make the sauce even better! Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. These add a nice touch of flavor. A splash of lemon juice can also brighten the dish. If you want a thicker sauce, simmer it longer. This reduces the liquid and intensifies the flavors. You can also add a little cornstarch mixed with water. This will help the sauce thicken quickly. Pair this dish with tasty sides. Pasta or rice makes a great base for the sauce. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. For presentation, place the chicken on a plate and spoon the sauce on top. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a nice finish. If you have fresh basil, a few leaves on top look great too! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor in your dish. Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the herbs according to your taste; adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick. Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure the chicken is not overcrowded in the skillet to achieve an even golden-brown sear. Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance; simply reheat gently on the stovetop before serving for a quick meal. {{image_2}} You can switch up the chicken type in this dish. Boneless thighs work well, too. They add a richer flavor and remain moist during cooking. You can also use turkey or even tofu for a plant-based option. If you don’t have heavy cream, don’t worry! You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version. Both keep the dish creamy while adding different flavors. Adding herbs can change the taste. Try fresh thyme or rosemary for a new twist. These herbs give the dish a bright, fresh flavor. You can also use red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Incorporating vegetables makes this meal even better. Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for more color and nutrients. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for a full, rich taste. To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free chicken broth. Check the label on the sun-dried tomatoes, too. Most are gluten-free, but it’s good to confirm. For low-calorie options, use skinless chicken and replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream. This keeps it creamy while cutting calories. You can also serve it with a salad instead of pasta. To keep your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure the dish is cool before sealing it. This helps avoid moisture buildup. It lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating. If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space in the container for expansion. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, heat it on the stove over low heat. Stir often to ensure it warms evenly. You can prepare this dish in advance for busy weeks. Cook a batch and store it in portions. This way, you have easy meals ready to go. Use small containers for single servings. This makes reheating quick and easy. Plus, it helps you avoid waste. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried? Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. However, sun-dried tomatoes add a strong flavor. If you use fresh ones, you may need to cook them longer to get a similar taste. What can I serve with Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken? This dish pairs well with pasta or rice. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. These sides balance the creamy sauce well. Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes, you can. Use coconut cream or a nut-based cream. These options will keep the creamy texture without dairy. What can I substitute for chicken broth? Vegetable broth works great as a substitute. You can also use water with some herbs for flavor. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can cut into it to check that the juices run clear. What's the best way to thicken the sauce without flour? You can add more heavy cream or let the sauce simmer longer. This reduces the liquid and makes it thicker naturally. This recipe for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken is both simple and delicious. We covered everything from the main ingredients to optional add-ins that can boost flavor. Remember to cook the chicken just right and make the sauce creamy and rich. You can easily modify this dish for different diets or tastes. Lastly, it stores well for leftovers or meal prep. Enjoy making this meal, and remember, cooking is fun!

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

A delicious chicken dish cooked in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, perfect for a comforting meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup spinach leaves (optional)
  • for garnish grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and oregano, allowing the mixture to blend together for about 2 minutes.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
  • Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring constantly until well combined. If desired, add spinach leaves and allow them to wilt in the sauce.
  • Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the sauce over them, and let simmer for 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
  • Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if necessary.
  • Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Spinach is optional but adds a nice touch.
Keyword chicken, creamy, dinner, sun-dried tomatoes

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