Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Garlic Chicken

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Garlic Chicken is a quick, elegant dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious, flavorful sauce. The richness of cream, the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, and the savory depth of garlic and Parmesan make this meal restaurant-worthy yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Pair it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.

Ingredients

▢ 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
▢ 2 tablespoons olive oil or oil from your sun-dried tomato jar
▢ 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
▢ 4 cloves garlic, minced
▢ 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
▢ ½ cup chicken broth
▢ ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
▢ 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
▢ Salt and pepper, to taste

Introduction

This dish elevates simple chicken breasts into a creamy, tangy, and garlicky main course. Sun-dried tomatoes add a subtle sweetness and chewy texture, while Parmesan cheese enriches the sauce with savory depth. It’s perfect for entertaining or a comforting family dinner and comes together in about 30 minutes.

Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the remaining Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–5 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Chicken

Reduce heat to low and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Simmer for another 5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Serve

Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley for a touch of color.

Tips for Success

1. Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes: Packed in oil gives more flavor, but rehydrated dry tomatoes also work.
2. Don’t overcook the chicken: It can dry out; a quick sear and finishing in the sauce ensures moistness.
3. Adjust creaminess: Use half-and-half for a lighter option or add more cream for a richer sauce.
4. Deglaze the pan: Scrape up browned bits after removing the chicken — they add depth to the sauce.
5. Make ahead: Prepare the sauce and chicken separately, then combine and reheat gently before serving.

Variations

1. Spinach Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken: Add a handful of fresh spinach to the sauce at the end for color and nutrition.
2. Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy flavor.
3. Spicy Version: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
4. Lemon Twist: Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
5. Pasta Bake: Combine with cooked pasta and bake with extra cheese on top for a comforting casserole.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a light green salad to balance the richness. It’s also excellent over fettuccine or penne to turn the sauce into a full pasta meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the sauce from breaking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless thighs work well and are even juicier. Adjust cooking time slightly.

2. Can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute the cream with coconut milk and Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a similar flavor.

3. How thick should the sauce be?
It should coat the back of a spoon but still be pourable. Simmer longer if you prefer a thicker consistency.

4. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, make the sauce separately and reheat gently before adding freshly cooked chicken.

5. Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best served fresh, but you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Reheat slowly on the stovetop.

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Conclusion

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Garlic Chicken is an easy, flavorful, and elegant dish perfect for both weeknights and special occasions. The creamy sauce, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and rich Parmesan make it irresistible. Pair with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete, comforting meal that will impress everyone at the table.