Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Rich and Flavorful Dish

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Are you ready to impress your family with a delicious meal? Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken is rich, flavorful, and simple to make. This dish combines tender chicken with a creamy sauce bursting with sun-dried tomatoes. I’ll guide you through every step, from picking the right ingredients to cooking tips that guarantee success. Let’s dive in and make dinner something special tonight!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Flavorful Combination: The rich creaminess of the sauce, paired with the tangy sun-dried tomatoes, creates a delightful flavor explosion.
  2. Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
  3. Versatile Dish: Pair it with rice, pasta, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits any palate.
  4. Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes make this dish as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients

Complete Ingredient List

For this creamy sun-dried tomato chicken, gather these ingredients:

– 2 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 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 cup fresh spinach

– Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ingredients if needed. For chicken, use thighs for more flavor. If you want a lighter option, swap heavy cream with half-and-half. You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. If you lack sun-dried tomatoes, fresh tomatoes work too, but the taste will change. You can also add fresh herbs like basil for a fresh twist.

Recommended Brands and Products

For sun-dried tomatoes, I like brands like Bella Sun Luci or Mezzetta. Use heavy cream from brands like Land O’Lakes or Organic Valley. When it comes to chicken broth, Swanson is a good choice. For olive oil, choose a high-quality extra virgin oil like Pompeian or California Olive Ranch. These brands provide great flavor and quality for your dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Detailed Cooking Process

To make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken, start with prep. Gather your ingredients first. This helps you stay organized. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning on both sides of 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This adds flavor. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Look for a nice golden brown color. Once cooked, take the chicken out and set it aside.

Next, add 3 minced garlic cloves to the same skillet. Sauté them for about 1 minute until they smell good. Then, stir in 1 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook this for another 2 minutes.

Now, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it reduce for about 3-4 minutes. This step builds flavor. After that, lower the heat and mix in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well until the sauce is creamy and hot.

Add 1 cup of fresh spinach to the sauce. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts. Then, return the chicken to the skillet. Coat the chicken in the creamy sauce. Let it all simmer for another 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Tips for Cooking the Chicken

To ensure juicy chicken, do not overcook it. Use a meat thermometer if you have one. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Also, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it tender and juicy. Seasoning the chicken well is key. Don’t skip the salt and pepper.

How to Achieve the Perfect Sauce

To get a rich sauce, use heavy cream. It makes the sauce thick and creamy. If you want more flavor, add a splash of white wine before the broth. This adds depth. Make sure to mix well as you go. Stirring helps combine all the flavors. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth. Adjust to your taste. For a final touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. It adds a nice finish.

Tips & Tricks

How to Make It Extra Creamy

To make your sauce super creamy, use more heavy cream. If you want a richer flavor, add a bit more sun-dried tomatoes too. For a touch of tang, cream cheese can work well. Just mix it in slowly until it melts. This gives a nice texture and taste.

Pairing Suggestions

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken shines with pasta or rice. They soak up the sauce well. Try serving it over fettuccine for a classic twist. Garlic bread on the side adds crunch. A fresh salad with lemon dressing brightens up the meal. It balances the rich flavors nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcooking the chicken. Aim for golden brown on both sides. Another mistake is skipping the simmering step after adding broth. This step helps build the sauce’s flavor. Lastly, don’t rush adding spinach. Let it wilt fully for the best taste.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes to enhance the flavor of your dish.
  2. Perfectly Cooked Chicken: To ensure your chicken breasts remain juicy, use a meat thermometer and cook them to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  3. Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer a little longer after adding the cream, or mix in a cornstarch slurry.
  4. Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of lemon juice for a brighter flavor profile in the sauce.

Variations

Adding Vegetables

You can boost the nutrition and color of your dish by adding vegetables. Fresh spinach is a great start, but you can also include:

– Bell peppers

– Zucchini

– Mushrooms

– Broccoli

These veggies add texture and flavor. Sauté them for a few minutes before adding the cream. This way, they stay bright and tender.

Protein Alternatives

If you want to switch things up, try different proteins. You can use:

– Turkey breasts

– Shrimp

– Tofu

Each choice brings a unique taste. Cook them the same way as chicken. Adjust cooking time based on the protein you choose.

Flavor Enhancements (Herbs, Spices)

Enhancing flavors can make your dish pop. You might use:

– Fresh basil

– Thyme

– Oregano

These herbs add depth. Sprinkle them in while cooking the sauce. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Experiment with these options to find your favorite taste!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken fresh, place it in an airtight container. Let it cool down first. Store it in the fridge. It will stay good for 3 to 4 days. Label your container with the date. This way, you’ll know when to eat it.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to heat your leftovers, do it gently. A skillet works best. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Heat it over medium-low heat. Stir it often until it’s warmed through. You can also use a microwave. Heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking.

Freezing Tips

If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Cool the dish fully before freezing. Use a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. Remove as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. However, sun-dried tomatoes give a deep flavor. Fresh tomatoes add moisture but lack the same intensity. To substitute, use about two medium fresh tomatoes. Chop them fine and cook a bit longer to reduce excess water. This keeps your sauce thick and rich.

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

You have many options! This dish pairs well with fluffy rice or pasta. You can also serve it with roasted veggies or a fresh salad. If you want more flavor, sprinkle fresh basil on top. It adds color and a nice herbal touch.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, swap heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. Both create a creamy texture without dairy. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor. This keeps your dish rich and delicious while being dairy-free.

This blog post covers all you need for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken. We went over the key ingredients, offered swaps, and named some top brands. You learned a clear cooking process and tips for perfect results. I shared tricks for creaminess and what to pair with the dish. You can explore variations with veggies and flavors. Finally, I explained how to store leftovers and answered common questions. Enjoy cooking this dish, and make it your own. You have the tools to create something tasty and impressiv

For this creamy sun-dried tomato chicken, gather these ingredients: - 2 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 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 cup fresh spinach - Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish You can swap ingredients if needed. For chicken, use thighs for more flavor. If you want a lighter option, swap heavy cream with half-and-half. You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. If you lack sun-dried tomatoes, fresh tomatoes work too, but the taste will change. You can also add fresh herbs like basil for a fresh twist. For sun-dried tomatoes, I like brands like Bella Sun Luci or Mezzetta. Use heavy cream from brands like Land O'Lakes or Organic Valley. When it comes to chicken broth, Swanson is a good choice. For olive oil, choose a high-quality extra virgin oil like Pompeian or California Olive Ranch. These brands provide great flavor and quality for your dish. {{ingredient_image_1}} To make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken, start with prep. Gather your ingredients first. This helps you stay organized. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning on both sides of 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This adds flavor. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Look for a nice golden brown color. Once cooked, take the chicken out and set it aside. Next, add 3 minced garlic cloves to the same skillet. Sauté them for about 1 minute until they smell good. Then, stir in 1 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook this for another 2 minutes. Now, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it reduce for about 3-4 minutes. This step builds flavor. After that, lower the heat and mix in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well until the sauce is creamy and hot. Add 1 cup of fresh spinach to the sauce. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts. Then, return the chicken to the skillet. Coat the chicken in the creamy sauce. Let it all simmer for another 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together. To ensure juicy chicken, do not overcook it. Use a meat thermometer if you have one. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Also, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it tender and juicy. Seasoning the chicken well is key. Don't skip the salt and pepper. To get a rich sauce, use heavy cream. It makes the sauce thick and creamy. If you want more flavor, add a splash of white wine before the broth. This adds depth. Make sure to mix well as you go. Stirring helps combine all the flavors. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth. Adjust to your taste. For a final touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. It adds a nice finish. To make your sauce super creamy, use more heavy cream. If you want a richer flavor, add a bit more sun-dried tomatoes too. For a touch of tang, cream cheese can work well. Just mix it in slowly until it melts. This gives a nice texture and taste. Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken shines with pasta or rice. They soak up the sauce well. Try serving it over fettuccine for a classic twist. Garlic bread on the side adds crunch. A fresh salad with lemon dressing brightens up the meal. It balances the rich flavors nicely. One common mistake is overcooking the chicken. Aim for golden brown on both sides. Another mistake is skipping the simmering step after adding broth. This step helps build the sauce’s flavor. Lastly, don’t rush adding spinach. Let it wilt fully for the best taste. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes to enhance the flavor of your dish. Perfectly Cooked Chicken: To ensure your chicken breasts remain juicy, use a meat thermometer and cook them to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer a little longer after adding the cream, or mix in a cornstarch slurry. Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of lemon juice for a brighter flavor profile in the sauce. {{image_2}} You can boost the nutrition and color of your dish by adding vegetables. Fresh spinach is a great start, but you can also include: - Bell peppers - Zucchini - Mushrooms - Broccoli These veggies add texture and flavor. Sauté them for a few minutes before adding the cream. This way, they stay bright and tender. If you want to switch things up, try different proteins. You can use: - Turkey breasts - Shrimp - Tofu Each choice brings a unique taste. Cook them the same way as chicken. Adjust cooking time based on the protein you choose. Enhancing flavors can make your dish pop. You might use: - Fresh basil - Thyme - Oregano These herbs add depth. Sprinkle them in while cooking the sauce. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Experiment with these options to find your favorite taste! To keep your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken fresh, place it in an airtight container. Let it cool down first. Store it in the fridge. It will stay good for 3 to 4 days. Label your container with the date. This way, you’ll know when to eat it. When you’re ready to heat your leftovers, do it gently. A skillet works best. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Heat it over medium-low heat. Stir it often until it’s warmed through. You can also use a microwave. Heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Cool the dish fully before freezing. Use a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. Remove as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. However, sun-dried tomatoes give a deep flavor. Fresh tomatoes add moisture but lack the same intensity. To substitute, use about two medium fresh tomatoes. Chop them fine and cook a bit longer to reduce excess water. This keeps your sauce thick and rich. You have many options! This dish pairs well with fluffy rice or pasta. You can also serve it with roasted veggies or a fresh salad. If you want more flavor, sprinkle fresh basil on top. It adds color and a nice herbal touch. To make it dairy-free, swap heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. Both create a creamy texture without dairy. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor. This keeps your dish rich and delicious while being dairy-free. This blog post covers all you need for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken. We went over the key ingredients, offered swaps, and named some top brands. You learned a clear cooking process and tips for perfect results. I shared tricks for creaminess and what to pair with the dish. You can explore variations with veggies and flavors. Finally, I explained how to store leftovers and answered common questions. Enjoy cooking this dish, and make it your own. You have the tools to create something tasty and impressive.

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

A delicious chicken dish cooked in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce with fresh spinach.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 2
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 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 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • for garnish grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  • Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Allow it to reduce slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, mixing well until the sauce is creamy and heated through.
  • Add the fresh spinach to the sauce and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
  • Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, coating them in the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce.
  • Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  • Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Serve the dish over a bed of fluffy rice or pasta, and sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for added color and flavor.
Keyword chicken, creamy, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes

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