Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Flavorful and Simple
Looking for a delicious yet simple meal? You’ll love this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken. With just a few key ingredients, you can whip up a rich, flavorful dish that impresses everyone. Picture tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce that envelops each bite. Let’s make dinner a breeze with this tasty recipe you can enjoy any night of the week! Dive in to find out how!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The rich creaminess of the sauce paired with the tangy sun-dried tomatoes creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether served over polenta, pasta, or steamed veggies, this dish adapts beautifully to different sides.
- Impressive Presentation: With its vibrant colors and garnished with fresh basil, this dish looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for entertaining.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
Additional Ingredients
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning and Oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken starts with simple, fresh ingredients. You need chicken breasts, heavy cream, and sun dried tomatoes. These add flavor and richness to the dish.
You’ll also use chicken broth. Chicken broth enhances the taste and adds depth. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives a wonderful, cheesy finish. You can’t forget the garlic! It adds a savory touch that brings everything together.
For seasoning, I like dried basil and oregano. These herbs add a nice, aromatic flavor. If you want a little heat, add red pepper flakes. Salt and black pepper help balance everything and enhance the taste.
Lastly, don’t skip the extra virgin olive oil. It helps cook the chicken perfectly and adds a nice richness. Fresh basil leaves are a great garnish. They add color and freshness to your dish.
Gather all these ingredients, and you’ll be ready to create a delicious meal that everyone will love.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
– Seasoning the chicken breasts: Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts. Use salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step adds great flavor to the meat.
– Searing the chicken in the skillet: Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown and cooked through. Once done, take the chicken out and set it aside on a plate.
Creating the Sauce
– Sautéing the garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Cook it for about 30 seconds. Keep stirring until the garlic smells good and fragrant.
– Deglazing the pan with chicken broth: Pour in the chicken broth next. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any of those tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This adds extra flavor to your sauce.
Finishing the Dish
– Incorporating sun-dried tomatoes and herbs: Now, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sprinkle in the dried basil and oregano, along with the red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Stir it all together and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes. This lets the flavors mix well.
– Crafting the creamy sauce and adding Parmesan: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while stirring. This will make a smooth sauce. Next, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is rich and creamy.
– Reintroducing the chicken and final seasoning: Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet. Make sure they are well covered in the sauce. Let everything simmer together for another 3–5 minutes. This helps the chicken soak up the sauce. Finally, taste your sauce and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Techniques
Best practices for searing chicken
Searing chicken gives it a nice crust. Start with dry chicken breasts. Pat them with a paper towel before seasoning. This helps the chicken brown well. Heat olive oil in a hot skillet. Once it shimmers, add the chicken. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side. You want a golden color and cooked through meat. Avoid moving the chicken too much; let it sear.
How to achieve a creamy sauce consistency
To make a creamy sauce, start with low heat. When you add the heavy cream, stir slowly. This helps mix it well. Gradually add Parmesan cheese while stirring. This keeps the sauce smooth and rich. If it seems too thick, add a little chicken broth. This keeps it creamy without being too heavy.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding more herbs or spices for depth
To boost flavor, try adding fresh herbs. Fresh basil or parsley adds a bright taste. You might also use thyme or rosemary. Experiment with different spices to personalize the dish. A pinch of smoked paprika can add warmth.
Suggestions for adjusting spice levels
If you want more heat, add red pepper flakes. You can increase or decrease the amount based on your taste. If you need it milder, skip the red pepper flakes. You could use a bit of lemon juice for a fresh kick instead.
Presentation Ideas
Plating suggestions with accompaniments
Serve the chicken over creamy polenta or steamed spinach. This adds color and texture. Drizzle some of the sauce over the chicken for a beautiful look. Make sure each plate gets a good amount of sauce.
Garnishing options to elevate the dish
Top your dish with fresh basil leaves. This adds a pop of green and a hint of freshness. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese for a nice touch. A few cherry tomatoes can add color and flavor as well.
Pro Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To keep the chicken juicy, avoid overcooking it during the searing process; it should be golden brown on the outside while remaining tender inside.
- Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative without sacrificing too much flavor.
- Garnish for Flavor: Fresh basil not only adds a beautiful presentation but also enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can change some ingredients to fit your taste or diet.
– Alternatives for heavy cream: If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half or coconut cream. Both will still give you a creamy texture.
– Using different types of cheese: Try mozzarella or feta cheese instead of Parmesan. Each cheese brings a unique flavor that can change the dish.
Protein Options
You can swap chicken for other proteins for variety.
– Suggestions for substituting chicken with turkey or shrimp: Turkey works well and cooks similarly. Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a sweet flavor to the dish.
– Vegetarian alternatives using tofu or mushrooms: Tofu is a great protein that soaks up the sauce. Mushrooms add a nice earthiness and texture.
Dietary Adjustments
You can modify the recipe to fit dietary needs.
– Making it dairy-free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese. This keeps the dish creamy without milk products.
– Low-carb variations: Skip the heavy cream and use cauliflower puree. This keeps the creaminess while cutting down on carbs.
Experiment with these options to make the dish your own!
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
Store your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken in an airtight container. This keeps the chicken fresh. It can last in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing. This helps avoid condensation inside the container. If you plan to eat it later, consider storing the sauce and chicken separately. This method helps keep the chicken juicy and the sauce creamy.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat without losing creaminess, use the stove. Place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat. Stir gently to avoid burning. Heat for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. You can add a splash of chicken broth or cream. This keeps the sauce smooth and rich. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the sauce separate.
Freezing Tips
If you want to freeze this dish, do it before reheating. Place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top as it may expand. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it on the stove as mentioned above. This way, you preserve the flavor and texture.
FAQs
What is the best way to ensure tender chicken?
To keep chicken tender, brining works well. A simple brine uses water and salt. Soak the chicken for 30 minutes. This adds moisture and flavor. You can also marinate it. Use olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes. This helps to break down tough proteins in the meat. Both methods give you juicy, tender chicken every time.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the chicken and sauce as directed. Once done, let it cool down. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to three days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove. Add a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much. This keeps the flavor rich and creamy.
What are good side dishes to serve with Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken?
Several side dishes pair well with this creamy chicken. Here are some ideas:
– Creamy polenta
– Steamed spinach
– Garlic mashed potatoes
– Roasted asparagus
– Buttered noodles
– Quinoa salad
These sides complement the rich flavor of the chicken. They also balance the meal nicely. Choose one or mix a few for a delicious spread!
This blog post covered how to make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken. We discussed key ingredients and step-by-step instructions. You learned tips for perfecting flavor and presentation.
Feel free to try variations that suit your taste or dietary needs. Remember to store any leftovers properly. Enjoy making this dish, and share it with friends and family for a tasty mea
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Delight
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
- 0.5 cup chicken broth
- 0.5 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- to taste salt
- to taste freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- for garnish fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a beautiful golden brown color and are cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until the garlic releases its aromatic fragrance.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan, which will add depth to your sauce.
- Incorporate the Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Herbs: Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if opting for spice). Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Craft the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and gently pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth sauce. Gradually add in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to stir until the sauce becomes rich and creamy.
- Reintroduce the Chicken: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, ensuring they are enveloped in the luscious sauce. Allow everything to simmer together for an additional 3-5 minutes, so the chicken absorbs the flavors.
- Final Seasoning: Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed, ensuring it reaches the perfect flavor balance.
- Serve: Plate the creamy sun-dried tomato chicken while it's hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves to add a pop of color and freshness.
![The Green Goddess Pasta Salad is colorful and packed with flavor. Here’s what you need: - 8 oz whole grain pasta (fusilli or penne) - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cucumber, diced - 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped - 1 cup frozen peas, thawed and drained - ½ cup red onion, finely diced - 1 ripe avocado, diced - ½ cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped - ½ cup fresh basil, roughly chopped - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice - ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt - ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard - Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste You can mix and match veggies based on what you like. Fresh herbs bring bright flavors. The creamy dressing makes the salad rich and satisfying. For the full recipe, check the instructions in the next section. Enjoy the fresh taste with every bite! To start, boil a large pot of salted water. Add 8 oz of whole grain pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it in a colander. Rinse the pasta under cold water. This cools it down and stops the cooking process. Next, prepare the dressing. In a high-speed blender, add ¼ cup of plain Greek yogurt, ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Blend these ingredients until smooth. Then, add ½ cup of fresh parsley and ½ cup of fresh basil. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Now, it’s time to mix everything. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta. Then, add the vegetables: 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 diced cucumber, and 1 chopped bell pepper. Don't forget 1 cup of thawed peas and ½ cup of finely diced red onion. Toss in 1 ripe diced avocado. Finally, pour the prepared dressing over the salad. Gently mix everything until the pasta and veggies are well coated. For the complete recipe, check [Full Recipe]. - Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor. Fresh parsley and basil make a big difference. - Adjust seasoning to achieve the desired taste. Taste your dressing as you mix it. - Chill salad for enhanced flavor. Let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. - Garnish with extra herbs or avocado slices for presentation. A touch of green adds beauty. - Use pre-cut vegetables to save preparation time. Many stores offer these, making life easier. - Make dressing ahead of time for quick assembly. This way, you can mix the salad in minutes. Enjoy these tips to make your Green Goddess Pasta Salad even better! For the full recipe, check above. {{image_4}} You can boost your Green Goddess Pasta Salad with protein. Adding grilled chicken or shrimp gives it a tasty twist. If you prefer plant-based options, try chickpeas. They add great texture and flavor. For a vegan dressing, swap Greek yogurt for creamy avocado or cashews. This keeps it rich and delicious without dairy. The greens you use can change the salad's flavor. Spinach, arugula, or kale work well. Each green adds its own nutrients. You can also switch herbs based on your taste. Try dill or cilantro for a fresh twist. Mixing different greens makes the salad colorful and healthy. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. It tastes just as good as regular pasta. You can also change the ingredient amounts. This helps if you need smaller or larger portions. Adjusting the recipe makes it fit your specific needs. Always feel free to make it your own! Store your Green Goddess Pasta Salad in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, the flavors actually improve after chilling. I love letting it sit overnight. It gives the herbs time to blend and enhances the overall taste. Freezing this salad isn’t a great idea. It can change the texture of the fresh ingredients. The creamy dressing can separate, and the veggies may get mushy. Fresh ingredients are best when used right away. Enjoy them at their peak! If you need to serve it later, enjoy it cold or at room temperature. Avoid using a microwave, as this can ruin the texture and flavor. The salad is vibrant and tasty cold, making it a perfect dish for warm days or picnics. For the best experience, stick to serving it fresh or slightly chilled. Green Goddess dressing has a bright and fresh taste. It includes herbs, lemon juice, yogurt, and olive oil. The herbs often used are parsley and basil. These ingredients come together to make a creamy and zesty dressing. You can easily adjust it to taste. Add more herbs for a stronger flavor. Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. It is actually ideal to chill it before serving. Chilling helps the flavors mix and develop. Aim to let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you make it a day before, the taste will be even better. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, don’t worry! You can use sour cream as a great substitute. Another option is dairy-free yogurt if you want a vegan choice. You can even use mashed avocado for a creamy texture. All these options work well with the dressing. When stored correctly, this salad stays fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container. The flavors will meld together, making it even tastier. However, it’s best to enjoy it fresh for the best texture and taste. If you notice any changes in smell or texture, it's best to toss it out. This pasta salad is fresh, healthy, and easy to make. We combined whole grain pasta with colorful veggies, creamy dressing, and vibrant herbs. Remember, you can add proteins or swap ingredients based on your taste. The salad stays fresh for three days but tastes even better after chilling. Enjoy creating your delicious twist on this recipe. This dish is perfect for any occasion, making it a great choice for meals and gatherings.](https://blissfulmeal.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/f9b14eb2-cf67-4800-8b6d-d5095eed8a38-768x768.webp)
![When making honey garlic glazed salmon, you need a few key items. Here’s the complete list of ingredients: - Salmon Fillets: 4 fillets, around 6 ounces each, are perfect for this dish. - Marinade Components: - 1/4 cup honey - 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely grated - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Garnishes: - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds - 2 green onions, thinly sliced - Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste These simple ingredients combine to create a dish that is both flavorful and easy to prepare. The sweet honey pairs well with the savory soy sauce, while the garlic and ginger add depth. Using low-sodium soy sauce helps keep the dish balanced and not overly salty. For the best results, choose fresh salmon fillets. The quality of the fish makes a big difference in flavor. Enjoy the process of gathering these ingredients, knowing you’re on your way to a delightful meal. You can find the full recipe linked here for detailed steps on how to prepare this dish. To start, grab a medium mixing bowl. In it, whisk together the honey, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. You want this mix to be smooth and well combined. This marinade is sweet and savory, which gives the salmon its great flavor. Set it aside while you prep the salmon. Now, take your salmon fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is key for achieving a nice sear. Generously sprinkle salt and freshly ground pepper on both sides of each fillet. Make sure every piece is coated evenly. This simple seasoning enhances the dish and balances the sweetness of the glaze. For cooking, use a large non-stick skillet. Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes, letting the skin get golden and crispy. Then, flip the fillets gently using a spatula. Lower the heat to medium to avoid burning the sauce. Next, pour the prepared honey-garlic mixture over the salmon. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, spooning the glaze over the fillets often. This helps the salmon soak in all that flavor. Once the internal temperature reaches 145°F, remove the salmon from the skillet and let it rest for a minute on a plate. To thicken the sauce, increase the heat slightly and let the remaining sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Finally, place the salmon on serving plates, drizzle the thickened sauce over each fillet, and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. This step adds a nice finish and color to your dish. For the full recipe, check out the delicious details! To make great salmon, start with fresh fillets. Look for bright, shiny skin with no brown spots. Always pat the fillets dry. This helps the skin crisp up. Cook your salmon skin-side down first. This gives it a nice golden color. Cook it for about 4-5 minutes on medium-high heat. Flip gently and lower the heat. This avoids burning while it cooks through. Your salmon should reach 145°F inside. A meat thermometer can help you check. The key to a tasty glaze is balance. Use equal parts honey and soy sauce. This gives the glaze sweetness and saltiness. Fresh garlic and ginger add a nice kick. Make sure to whisk the marinade well. This ensures all the flavors mix. When cooking, spoon the glaze over the salmon. This keeps the flavor strong and delicious. Let the sauce simmer to thicken. A thick glaze coats the fish nicely and adds a lovely shine. Honey garlic glazed salmon pairs well with many sides. Try it with steamed broccoli for a fresh crunch. Jasmine rice is another great choice; it soaks up the sauce well. You can also serve it with a salad. A light, citrus salad can brighten the meal. For drinks, a chilled white wine complements the honey flavor. You can also try sparkling water with lemon. These pairings enhance the dish and create a lovely dining experience. For the full recipe, click [Full Recipe]. {{image_4}} You can boost the flavor of your honey garlic glazed salmon by adding lemon zest. Lemon zest adds a bright, fresh taste that balances the sweetness of the honey. To use lemon zest, simply grate the outer peel of a lemon before mixing it into the marinade. A teaspoon is usually enough. This small addition can change the dish and make it stand out. If you want to swap the honey, there are great options. Maple syrup or agave nectar can work well. These sweeteners give a similar sweetness without changing the taste too much. Adjust the amount based on your sweetness level. Start with a 1/4 cup and taste. You might want more or less. This change can suit different diets and preferences. If you like spice, consider adding some heat to your salmon. You can mix in red pepper flakes or sriracha into the marinade. Start with a small amount, like a teaspoon, and taste it. You can always add more if you want extra spice. This variation creates a nice balance between sweet and spicy. It adds depth and excitement to your dish. Feel free to explore these variations to keep your meals fresh and interesting. For the full recipe, check the complete list above. Store leftover honey garlic glazed salmon in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Make sure to let the salmon cool before sealing it. This helps keep moisture and flavor. To reheat, use a microwave or oven. If using a microwave, heat on low power. This avoids drying out the salmon. Cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. If using the oven, place the salmon in a dish. Add a splash of water and cover. Heat at 275°F for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the fish tender and tasty. You can freeze honey garlic glazed salmon for up to two months. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This keeps the flavor fresh and delightful. The best salmon for this dish is wild-caught salmon. It has rich flavor and firm texture. Sockeye and Coho are great choices. They hold up well to cooking. Farmed salmon can work too, but it may have a milder taste. Choose salmon that is fresh and bright in color. This will ensure a delicious meal. You can check if the salmon is done by looking for its color. It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. If you do not have one, cook for about 8-10 minutes total on medium heat. The glaze will also help you know when it is ready. Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance. Just store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can also season the salmon and keep it wrapped in the fridge. Just remember to cook it within 24 hours for the best taste. Cooked salmon can be stored too. Keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep it moist and tasty. For the full recipe, check out the details above. This blog post shared how to make delicious honey garlic glazed salmon. We covered the key ingredients, from fresh salmon to tasty marinades and garnishes. I outlined step-by-step cooking methods, plus tips for cooking it just right. We explored fun variations to make this dish your own, and I provided storage tips for leftovers. In summary, making this salmon is easy and fun. With simple ingredients and methods, you can impress anyone at the dinner table. Enjoy your cooking adventure!](https://blissfulmeal.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/7e59e151-b23c-41a1-9487-05dbc7b00db7-768x768.webp)
