Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken
Highlighted under: Nutritious & Delicious Meals
Indulge in this rich and flavorful creamy sun-dried tomato chicken dish. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion!
This creamy sun-dried tomato chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, a rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce, and a hint of garlic. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that satisfies every craving
- Bursting with flavors from sun-dried tomatoes and garlic
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
A Flavorful Combination
The combination of creamy textures and robust flavors makes this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken a standout dish. Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the richness of the heavy cream. Together with the savory notes from garlic and Parmesan, every bite is a delightful journey of taste. This dish not only pleases the palate but also fills the senses, creating a satisfying dining experience for you and your guests.
Incorporating sun-dried tomatoes into your meals not only enhances flavor but also boosts nutritional value. They are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making this dish a healthier choice. The garlic, known for its numerous health benefits, further elevates this recipe, contributing to a heart-healthy meal that you can enjoy guilt-free. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Perfect Pairings
To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken with a side of garlic bread. The crusty texture of the bread complements the creamy sauce beautifully, allowing you to savor every drop. Additionally, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the dish, providing a fresh crunch that enhances the overall meal.
If you're looking to pair this dish with wine, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red such as Pinot Noir would be ideal. These wines will not overpower the delicate flavors of the chicken and sauce, but rather enhance the dining experience, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your meal.
Storage and Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, storing this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken is simple. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days, making it a convenient option for meal prep. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to revive the sauce.
For those who enjoy meal prepping, this dish can also be frozen. Portion the chicken with the sauce into freezer-safe containers, and it will keep well for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This way, you can enjoy a hearty, homemade meal even on your busiest days.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Cream Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil for garnish
Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking for a seamless experience!
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Make the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Then, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute. Pour in the heavy cream, add Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
Combine and Serve
Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the creamy sauce. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Enjoy your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken with pasta or a side salad!
Cooking Tips
To ensure your chicken breasts remain juicy and tender, avoid overcooking them. Using a meat thermometer can help you achieve the perfect doneness; chicken is safely cooked at an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Additionally, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
When preparing the cream sauce, be mindful of the heat. Too high of a temperature can cause the cream to curdle. Keeping the heat at medium allows the sauce to simmer gently, thickening beautifully without compromising the texture. Stirring consistently while adding ingredients will help meld the flavors seamlessly.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences! For instance, adding spinach or kale can introduce a lovely earthiness and a boost of nutrients. Simply stir in the greens after adding the cream and allow them to wilt before returning the chicken to the skillet. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a vibrant pop of color to your dish.
If you're looking for a bit of spice, consider incorporating red pepper flakes into the cream sauce. This will give a delightful kick that balances perfectly with the creaminess of the dish. For a different twist, try swapping out the sun-dried tomatoes for roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor that works equally well.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
While you can use fresh tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes provide a concentrated flavor that enhances the dish.
→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or coconut cream as a lighter alternative, but the texture may differ.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and reheat them before serving.
→ What sides pair well with this dish?
This creamy chicken pairs nicely with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad.
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken
Indulge in this rich and flavorful creamy sun-dried tomato chicken dish. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion!
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Nutritious & Delicious Meals
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Cream Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Then, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute. Pour in the heavy cream, add Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir well and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the creamy sauce. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 32g