Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Quick and Tasty Meal

Are you ready for a meal that’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to whip up? This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken is perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you'll have a dish that's sure to impress. Let’s dive into this quick recipe that puts a gourmet twist on your weeknight dinners!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 1 cup chicken broth

Aromatics and Seasonings

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- 1 teaspoon dried basil

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional Garnishes

- Fresh basil leaves

- Grated Parmesan cheese

When I make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken, I love how simple the ingredients are. You start with four chicken breasts. I prefer boneless and skinless for easy cooking. Next, sun-dried tomatoes give a rich flavor. I use one cup, chopped, to pack in that taste. For a creamy sauce, I rely on one cup of heavy cream. Chicken broth adds depth, so I include one cup of that too.

Aromatics bring the dish to life. I chop one medium onion and mince three cloves of garlic. These two are key for flavor. I also add dried oregano and basil to enhance the sauce. Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning. I use two tablespoons of olive oil to sear the chicken.

To finish, I sometimes garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. These add a lovely touch. This dish is quick, tasty, and great for any night of the week!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps the chicken sear well. Season both sides with salt and pepper. This simple step makes a big difference in flavor.

Cooking the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Sear them for 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This gives you a great base for the next steps.

Making the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to turn translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This step fills your kitchen with a lovely aroma.

Next, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir them into the onions and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let this cook for about 3-4 minutes. It helps the flavors blend and reduces the liquid slightly.

Now, stir in the heavy cream along with the dried oregano and dried basil. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 5 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. This creamy sauce is what makes the dish special.

Final Assembly

Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken. Allow it to heat through for another 2-3 minutes. This step makes sure the chicken absorbs all that delicious flavor. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Now you're ready to enjoy a tasty meal!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

To keep chicken juicy, avoid overcooking it. Sear the chicken until golden brown. This will lock in moisture. Use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures it’s safe and juicy.

For sauce consistency, start with a simmer. If it’s too thin, let it cook longer. Stir often to prevent sticking. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. This helps achieve your desired creaminess.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost flavor, add more herbs or spices. Try fresh basil or thyme. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat. Experiment with flavors you enjoy.

If you want alternatives for creaminess, use Greek yogurt or coconut cream. These options add a unique twist. They can also make the dish lighter while staying tasty.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken with sides like pasta or rice. These soak up the sauce well. Steamed veggies or a fresh salad work too. They balance the rich flavors.

Consider serving it with crusty bread. This allows you to enjoy every drop of the sauce. Each bite will be a delight!

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs. Thighs stay juicy and add rich flavor. They work great in this recipe. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or cashew cream. Both add a nice touch of creaminess.

Flavor Variations

Try adding fresh spinach or kale for a healthy boost. Toss in the greens when you add the cream. For some spice, sprinkle in red pepper flakes. This will give your dish a nice kick.

Cooking Method Alternatives

You can use a slow cooker for an easier method. Simply sear the chicken first, then place it in the slow cooker with the sauce. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. An Instant Pot is another great choice. After searing, add the sauce and chicken, then cook on high for about 10 minutes. Both methods keep the chicken moist and full of flavor.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To keep your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. It can last up to three days. When storing, try to separate the chicken from the sauce for the best texture.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze this dish for later meals. Let the chicken cool down to room temperature first. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. This dish can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Tips

To reheat your chicken, use a skillet over low heat. This method warms the dish without drying it out. You can also use the microwave, but cover it to keep moisture in. Stir the sauce to ensure even heating. Enjoy your meal just as delicious as the first time!

FAQs

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

You can serve this dish with many sides. Here are some ideas:

- Pasta: Cooked fettuccine or penne pairs well with the sauce.

- Rice: White or brown rice absorbs the creamy sauce nicely.

- Salads: A fresh green salad adds a crunchy contrast.

- Vegetables: Roasted or steamed broccoli and asparagus complement the meal.

- Bread: Crusty bread helps you savor every drop of sauce.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but the flavor changes. Fresh tomatoes are juicy. They will add moisture but lack the concentrated flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. You may need to cook them longer to create a sauce. Sun-dried tomatoes bring a unique taste that brightens the dish.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken is great for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Just keep the chicken and sauce together in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for later. When you're ready to eat, just reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. This makes it a quick and easy meal on busy days.

You learned how to make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken. We covered key ingredients like chicken breasts and sun-dried tomatoes. You also learned the step-by-step methods, plus helpful tips for juicy chicken. Variations allow for personal taste, and I shared how to store and reheat leftovers properly.

Whether you're cooking for yourself or sharing with others, this dish offers easy flavor. Dive in, enjoy, and impress everyone with your skills!