Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Tasty and Easy Meal

ByZara
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - Salt and freshly ground black pepper - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 3 garlic cloves, minced - 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish - Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving To make creamy sun-dried tomato chicken, start with fresh chicken breasts. They add protein and flavor. Season them with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. This spice brings a nice warmth to the dish. Next, you need your creamy sauce components. Gather sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy taste and vibrant color. The broth gives depth, while the heavy cream creates a rich and smooth texture. For optional garnishes, have fresh basil leaves ready. They add a lovely green touch and a fresh taste. Grated Parmesan cheese is also a must for serving. It enhances the dish with its salty, nutty flavor. These ingredients work together to create a tasty and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, season the chicken breasts. Use salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Make sure to coat both sides evenly. This adds flavor and depth to the chicken. Next, it's time to cook the chicken. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes. Look for a golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, take the chicken out and set it aside on a plate. Now, let’s make the sauce. Do not clean the skillet; it holds great flavor. Start by adding the finely chopped onion. Sauté it for 2-3 minutes until it turns translucent and soft. Then, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook this mixture for another 2 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen. After that, pour in the chicken broth. Stir well and bring it to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, mix in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce thicken for about 3-5 minutes. For the finishing touches, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Spoon the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce over the chicken. Let it simmer for an extra 2-3 minutes. This helps the chicken soak up all the delicious flavors. Finally, plate the chicken breasts. Generously ladle more creamy sauce on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for color and flavor. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese completes the dish. Enjoy your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken! - Ensuring chicken is juicy: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts well. Use salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. This adds flavor right from the start. Cook the chicken on medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes on each side. When done, the chicken should be golden brown and reach 165°F (75°C). Overcooking can dry it out, so watch the time closely. - Perfecting the creamy sauce: After cooking the chicken, keep the same skillet. This helps the sauce absorb all those tasty bits left behind. Sauté the onions until soft, then add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer. Stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning for flavor. Let it thicken for 3-5 minutes. This makes the sauce rich and creamy. - Ideal serving accompaniments: Pair the creamy sun-dried tomato chicken with creamy mashed potatoes or pasta. Both options soak up the sauce nicely, making each bite delightful. You can also serve it with a side of steamed veggies for color and nutrition. - Garnishing ideas for visual appeal: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of green. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds flavor and a nice touch. For an extra flourish, add a light dusting of cracked black pepper. This elevates the look and taste of your dish. Pro Tips Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken breasts to marinate in olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking to enhance the flavor. Use High-Quality Tomatoes: Opt for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil rather than dry ones; they add more flavor and moisture to the dish. Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative while still achieving a creamy texture. Garnish Smart: Fresh basil not only adds color but also enhances the dish's aroma—add it just before serving to keep it vibrant and fresh. {{image_4}} You can change the sun-dried tomatoes if you want. Try using roasted red peppers instead. They add sweetness and a nice color. You might also enjoy using fresh tomatoes during summer. Just chop them and cook them down. For herbs, you can swap Italian seasoning with fresh basil or thyme. These will bring different flavors to your dish. If you like a bit of heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes. They can kick up the spice level. If you're looking for low-fat options, use half-and-half or a low-fat cream. This will cut some calories but still give you a creamy texture. You can also use less oil when cooking the chicken. For a gluten-free version, make sure your chicken broth is gluten-free. Most brands offer this option. You can enjoy the same great taste without any worries. These variations let you customize your meal. You can make it fit your taste or dietary needs easily. To keep your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to let the chicken cool to room temperature before sealing it. Store the leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating gently is key. The best way is to use a skillet. Heat it over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it moist. Place the chicken in the skillet and cover it with a lid. This method helps maintain the flavor and texture. You can also use the microwave. Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat it in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between, until it’s warm. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried? Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. However, sun-dried tomatoes give a richer flavor. If you use fresh tomatoes, cook them longer to remove excess moisture. How to make it spicier? To add heat, try using red pepper flakes. You can also add a dash of hot sauce. Adjust the spice level to your taste. What sides pair well with this dish? Creamy mashed potatoes or pasta are great choices. You can also serve it with a simple green salad. These sides balance the creamy sauce nicely. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Yes, this recipe works well for meal prep. You can cook it ahead and store it in portions. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat. How long can leftovers be stored? Leftovers can last for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Ensure you store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. This blog post covered a simple chicken dish with a creamy sauce, tips, and variations. You learned about key ingredients and how to perfect cooking methods. I shared tips for juicy chicken and appealing garnishes. You also discovered ways to adjust the recipe for different diets. Remember, cooking is about fun and creativity. Don't hesitate to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Enjoy your cooking journey and make this dish your own!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a quick and tasty meal? This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken recipe checks all the boxes. You’ll love how simple it is to create a rich, flavorful dish that shines at the dinner table. From juicy chicken breasts to a creamy sauce, every step is easy to follow. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and make your next meal a hit!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Delicious Creamy Sauce: The rich and creamy sun-dried tomato sauce elevates the chicken to a whole new level, making every bite irresistible.
  2. Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor.
  3. Versatile Pairings: Serve it with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delightful sauce, making it adaptable to your taste.
  4. Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the dish, topped with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, make it visually appealing for any occasion.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– 1 small onion, finely chopped

– 3 garlic cloves, minced

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

– 1 cup chicken broth

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

To make creamy sun-dried tomato chicken, start with fresh chicken breasts. They add protein and flavor. Season them with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. This spice brings a nice warmth to the dish.

Next, you need your creamy sauce components. Gather sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy taste and vibrant color. The broth gives depth, while the heavy cream creates a rich and smooth texture.

For optional garnishes, have fresh basil leaves ready. They add a lovely green touch and a fresh taste. Grated Parmesan cheese is also a must for serving. It enhances the dish with its salty, nutty flavor.

These ingredients work together to create a tasty and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Chicken

First, season the chicken breasts. Use salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Make sure to coat both sides evenly. This adds flavor and depth to the chicken.

Next, it’s time to cook the chicken. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes. Look for a golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, take the chicken out and set it aside on a plate.

Making the Sauce

Now, let’s make the sauce. Do not clean the skillet; it holds great flavor. Start by adding the finely chopped onion. Sauté it for 2-3 minutes until it turns translucent and soft. Then, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook this mixture for another 2 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen.

After that, pour in the chicken broth. Stir well and bring it to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, mix in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce thicken for about 3-5 minutes.

Finishing Touches

For the finishing touches, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Spoon the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce over the chicken. Let it simmer for an extra 2-3 minutes. This helps the chicken soak up all the delicious flavors.

Finally, plate the chicken breasts. Generously ladle more creamy sauce on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for color and flavor. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese completes the dish. Enjoy your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

– Ensuring chicken is juicy: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts well. Use salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. This adds flavor right from the start. Cook the chicken on medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes on each side. When done, the chicken should be golden brown and reach 165°F (75°C). Overcooking can dry it out, so watch the time closely.

– Perfecting the creamy sauce: After cooking the chicken, keep the same skillet. This helps the sauce absorb all those tasty bits left behind. Sauté the onions until soft, then add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer. Stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning for flavor. Let it thicken for 3-5 minutes. This makes the sauce rich and creamy.

Presentation Suggestions

– Ideal serving accompaniments: Pair the creamy sun-dried tomato chicken with creamy mashed potatoes or pasta. Both options soak up the sauce nicely, making each bite delightful. You can also serve it with a side of steamed veggies for color and nutrition.

– Garnishing ideas for visual appeal: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of green. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds flavor and a nice touch. For an extra flourish, add a light dusting of cracked black pepper. This elevates the look and taste of your dish.

Pro Tips

  1. Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken breasts to marinate in olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking to enhance the flavor.
  2. Use High-Quality Tomatoes: Opt for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil rather than dry ones; they add more flavor and moisture to the dish.
  3. Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative while still achieving a creamy texture.
  4. Garnish Smart: Fresh basil not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s aroma—add it just before serving to keep it vibrant and fresh.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can change the sun-dried tomatoes if you want. Try using roasted red peppers instead. They add sweetness and a nice color. You might also enjoy using fresh tomatoes during summer. Just chop them and cook them down.

For herbs, you can swap Italian seasoning with fresh basil or thyme. These will bring different flavors to your dish. If you like a bit of heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes. They can kick up the spice level.

Dietary Adjustments

If you’re looking for low-fat options, use half-and-half or a low-fat cream. This will cut some calories but still give you a creamy texture. You can also use less oil when cooking the chicken.

For a gluten-free version, make sure your chicken broth is gluten-free. Most brands offer this option. You can enjoy the same great taste without any worries.

These variations let you customize your meal. You can make it fit your taste or dietary needs easily.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to let the chicken cool to room temperature before sealing it. Store the leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Instructions

When you are ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating gently is key. The best way is to use a skillet. Heat it over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it moist. Place the chicken in the skillet and cover it with a lid. This method helps maintain the flavor and texture. You can also use the microwave. Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat it in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between, until it’s warm.

FAQs

Common Questions

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. However, sun-dried tomatoes give a richer flavor. If you use fresh tomatoes, cook them longer to remove excess moisture.

How to make it spicier?

To add heat, try using red pepper flakes. You can also add a dash of hot sauce. Adjust the spice level to your taste.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Creamy mashed potatoes or pasta are great choices. You can also serve it with a simple green salad. These sides balance the creamy sauce nicely.

Cooking Time and Serving Size

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe works well for meal prep. You can cook it ahead and store it in portions. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat.

How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can last for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Ensure you store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

This blog post covered a simple chicken dish with a creamy sauce, tips, and variations. You learned about key ingredients and how to perfect cooking methods. I shared tips for juicy chicken and appealing garnishes. You also discovered ways to adjust the recipe for different diets.

Remember, cooking is about fun and creativity. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Enjoy your cooking journey and make this dish your ow

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - Salt and freshly ground black pepper - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 3 garlic cloves, minced - 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish - Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving To make creamy sun-dried tomato chicken, start with fresh chicken breasts. They add protein and flavor. Season them with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. This spice brings a nice warmth to the dish. Next, you need your creamy sauce components. Gather sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy taste and vibrant color. The broth gives depth, while the heavy cream creates a rich and smooth texture. For optional garnishes, have fresh basil leaves ready. They add a lovely green touch and a fresh taste. Grated Parmesan cheese is also a must for serving. It enhances the dish with its salty, nutty flavor. These ingredients work together to create a tasty and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, season the chicken breasts. Use salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Make sure to coat both sides evenly. This adds flavor and depth to the chicken. Next, it's time to cook the chicken. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes. Look for a golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, take the chicken out and set it aside on a plate. Now, let’s make the sauce. Do not clean the skillet; it holds great flavor. Start by adding the finely chopped onion. Sauté it for 2-3 minutes until it turns translucent and soft. Then, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook this mixture for another 2 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen. After that, pour in the chicken broth. Stir well and bring it to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, mix in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce thicken for about 3-5 minutes. For the finishing touches, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Spoon the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce over the chicken. Let it simmer for an extra 2-3 minutes. This helps the chicken soak up all the delicious flavors. Finally, plate the chicken breasts. Generously ladle more creamy sauce on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for color and flavor. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese completes the dish. Enjoy your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken! - Ensuring chicken is juicy: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts well. Use salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. This adds flavor right from the start. Cook the chicken on medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes on each side. When done, the chicken should be golden brown and reach 165°F (75°C). Overcooking can dry it out, so watch the time closely. - Perfecting the creamy sauce: After cooking the chicken, keep the same skillet. This helps the sauce absorb all those tasty bits left behind. Sauté the onions until soft, then add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer. Stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning for flavor. Let it thicken for 3-5 minutes. This makes the sauce rich and creamy. - Ideal serving accompaniments: Pair the creamy sun-dried tomato chicken with creamy mashed potatoes or pasta. Both options soak up the sauce nicely, making each bite delightful. You can also serve it with a side of steamed veggies for color and nutrition. - Garnishing ideas for visual appeal: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of green. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds flavor and a nice touch. For an extra flourish, add a light dusting of cracked black pepper. This elevates the look and taste of your dish. Pro Tips Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken breasts to marinate in olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking to enhance the flavor. Use High-Quality Tomatoes: Opt for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil rather than dry ones; they add more flavor and moisture to the dish. Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative while still achieving a creamy texture. Garnish Smart: Fresh basil not only adds color but also enhances the dish's aroma—add it just before serving to keep it vibrant and fresh. {{image_4}} You can change the sun-dried tomatoes if you want. Try using roasted red peppers instead. They add sweetness and a nice color. You might also enjoy using fresh tomatoes during summer. Just chop them and cook them down. For herbs, you can swap Italian seasoning with fresh basil or thyme. These will bring different flavors to your dish. If you like a bit of heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes. They can kick up the spice level. If you're looking for low-fat options, use half-and-half or a low-fat cream. This will cut some calories but still give you a creamy texture. You can also use less oil when cooking the chicken. For a gluten-free version, make sure your chicken broth is gluten-free. Most brands offer this option. You can enjoy the same great taste without any worries. These variations let you customize your meal. You can make it fit your taste or dietary needs easily. To keep your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to let the chicken cool to room temperature before sealing it. Store the leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating gently is key. The best way is to use a skillet. Heat it over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it moist. Place the chicken in the skillet and cover it with a lid. This method helps maintain the flavor and texture. You can also use the microwave. Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat it in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between, until it’s warm. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried? Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. However, sun-dried tomatoes give a richer flavor. If you use fresh tomatoes, cook them longer to remove excess moisture. How to make it spicier? To add heat, try using red pepper flakes. You can also add a dash of hot sauce. Adjust the spice level to your taste. What sides pair well with this dish? Creamy mashed potatoes or pasta are great choices. You can also serve it with a simple green salad. These sides balance the creamy sauce nicely. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Yes, this recipe works well for meal prep. You can cook it ahead and store it in portions. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat. How long can leftovers be stored? Leftovers can last for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Ensure you store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. This blog post covered a simple chicken dish with a creamy sauce, tips, and variations. You learned about key ingredients and how to perfect cooking methods. I shared tips for juicy chicken and appealing garnishes. You also discovered ways to adjust the recipe for different diets. Remember, cooking is about fun and creativity. Don't hesitate to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Enjoy your cooking journey and make this dish your own!

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Delight

A delicious chicken dish featuring sun-dried tomatoes and a creamy sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • for garnish fresh basil leaves
  • for serving grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

  • Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and smoked paprika on both sides to enhance their flavor.
  • In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are a beautiful golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
  • In the same skillet, without cleaning it, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and softer. Then, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until they are fragrant and well combined.
  • Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
  • Reintroduce the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, placing them in the sauce. Spoon the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce over the chicken. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak in the delicious flavors of the sauce.
  • Plate the chicken breasts, generously ladling more of the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce over them. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.

Notes

Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or over pasta.
Keyword chicken, creamy, Italian, sun-dried tomatoes

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