Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Simple and Tasty Dish

If you’re craving a dish that's both creamy and bursting with flavor, you’ll love my Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken. This tasty recipe combines tender chicken with a rich, savory sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or a cozy dinner for two, this dish is simple to make and sure to impress. Let’s dive in and get cooking!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

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

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 1/2 cup chicken broth

- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily swap some of these ingredients. If you want a lighter dish, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also use vegetable broth if you want a vegetarian option. Instead of chicken, you can try using shrimp or tofu. If you don’t have Parmesan, any other hard cheese will work.

Dietary Considerations

This dish is not gluten-free due to the chicken broth and cheese. To make it gluten-free, look for gluten-free broth. This recipe is high in protein, but it contains dairy. If you need it dairy-free, try coconut cream or a dairy-free cheese. Always check labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

First, take your chicken breasts. Lay them on a clean cutting board. Season them with salt and pepper on both sides. Next, sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly on each breast. This will add great flavor. Make sure every piece is coated well.

Cooking the Chicken in the Skillet

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add two tablespoons of olive oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. When done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute. You want the garlic to be fragrant but not burnt. Now, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir them for another minute to combine. Pour in half a cup of chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Next, stir in one cup of heavy cream and half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Cook this mixture for about 3-4 minutes. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. This creamy sauce will bring all the flavors together. Finally, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over each piece. Cook for an extra 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken back up.

Now, you're ready to enjoy your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To make the best creamy sun-dried tomato chicken, you need to focus on the chicken. Start by seasoning it well. Use salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This adds flavor right from the start. When you cook the chicken, ensure your skillet is hot. This helps sear the chicken and locks in juices. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want a nice golden brown color. Use a meat thermometer to check if it's done. It should reach 165°F for safety.

Adjusting Flavor Profiles

You can play with flavors to suit your taste. If you love garlic, add more than the recipe calls for. For a zestier dish, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice. Fresh basil gives a nice touch too. You can also use fresh herbs like thyme or oregano. If you want a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes in the sauce. Adjusting the parmesan can change the creaminess. Use more for a richer taste or less for a lighter dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcooking the chicken. This can make it dry, so watch your cooking time. Another mistake is not letting the sauce simmer enough. It needs time to thicken, which adds to the flavor. Don’t skip the step of sautéing the garlic. If you burn it, the sauce will taste bitter. Lastly, remember to taste the sauce before serving. This way, you can adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Variations

Adding Vegetables for Extra Flavor

You can enhance your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken by adding vegetables. Try bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Just chop them up and add them to the skillet after you sauté the garlic. Cook them until they are tender, then follow the recipe as usual. This adds color and nutrition to the dish.

Alternative Proteins

If you want to switch proteins, consider using shrimp or tofu. For shrimp, cook them until pink and tender, then remove them before making the sauce. Add them back in at the end. If using tofu, press and cube it first. Sauté the tofu until golden brown. Then, add it to the creamy sauce. Both options keep the dish tasty and unique.

Different Sauces to Try

You can also mix up the sauce for a new twist. Try adding pesto for a fresh flavor. Just stir in a few tablespoons when you add the cream. Another option is to use a white wine sauce. Replace some chicken broth with white wine for a richer taste. Each sauce gives the dish a different flair, so feel free to experiment!

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

After cooking, let your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken cool down. Store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge within two hours. It can last for up to three days. To keep it fresh, make sure it is sealed well.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze this dish if you want to save it for later. Allow the chicken to cool completely. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. To prevent freezer burn, remove as much air as possible from the bag.

Reheating Tips

When you are ready to eat, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in a skillet over low heat. You can add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until it is hot. Enjoy this tasty meal again!

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just chop them up and cook them longer. Fresh tomatoes add a juicy texture. However, sun-dried tomatoes give a strong flavor. They are rich and sweet. If you prefer a milder taste, try fresh tomatoes. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, swap heavy cream for coconut milk. You can also use dairy-free cheese. Look for brands that melt well. This will keep the creamy texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The flavor will still be rich and tasty.

What can I serve with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken?

This dish pairs well with many sides. Serve it with pasta or rice for a filling meal. A simple salad with greens adds freshness. Garlic bread is also a great option. You can even try roasted vegetables. Each side brings out the flavors of the chicken.

In this post, we explored how to make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken. We covered the essential ingredients, substitutions, and dietary notes. I shared step-by-step cooking instructions and helpful tips. I also offered variations for different tastes and storage advice.

This dish is easy to make and full of flavor. You can enjoy it with many sides. Remember to keep experimenting and adjust as you like. Happy cooking!