Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

If you’re searching for a meal that brings warmth, comfort, and a burst of flavor to your table, the Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet is exactly what you need. This dish perfectly balances tender chicken with the rich, tangy sweetness of sun dried tomatoes and a luscious creamy sauce. It’s a quick and easy recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dinner, ideal for any busy weeknight or a cozy dinner gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Prep: Ready in just about 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights when you want home-cooked taste without the wait.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sun dried tomatoes and cream creates a deeply savory and slightly tangy sauce that will wow your taste buds.
• One-Pan Convenience: Everything cooks together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
• Versatile Pairing: Pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables, making it adaptable to what you have on hand.
• Family Friendly: Mild yet full of flavor, it’s a dish that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in the Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture, resulting in a beautifully balanced dish that’s both satisfying and colorful.

• Chicken breasts: Skinless and boneless for quick cooking and tender bites.
• Sun dried tomatoes: Provide sweet, tangy notes that elevate the creamy sauce.
• Heavy cream: Adds richness and smoothness to the skillet sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Bring aromatic depth that complements the tomatoes.
• Fresh spinach (optional): Adds a pop of green and subtle earthiness.
• Parmesan cheese: Enhances creaminess and infuses a savory, nutty flavor.
• Olive oil or butter: Perfect for browning chicken and developing flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings to balance and enhance all the ingredients.
• Fresh basil or parsley: For a fresh, herbal finish that brightens the dish.

Variations for Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

One of the best parts about the Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet is how flexible it is—making it easy to tailor to your tastes or dietary preferences without losing any of its deliciousness.

• Swap protein: Use turkey cutlets or even shrimp for a different twist.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for an extra zing.
• Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with hearty mushrooms or zucchini slices.
• Extra greens: Stir in kale or arugula instead of spinach for varied textures and nutrients.

How to Make Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Sun Dried Tomatoes

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped sun dried tomatoes, sautéing until fragrant and slightly softened, about 1 to 2 minutes. This builds the base flavor for your creamy sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat to medium, then pour in heavy cream and stir to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Allow the sauce to simmer gently until it thickens slightly, about 3 to 5 minutes, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine and Finish Cooking

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Add fresh spinach or any other greens you prefer, letting them wilt naturally. Cook everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld perfectly.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

• Choose quality sun dried tomatoes: Opt for ones packed in oil for richer flavor, or rehydrate dry-packed before using.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Use a meat thermometer to stop cooking at 165°F for juicy results.
• Control the sauce thickness: If it gets too thick, thin with a splash of chicken broth or cream.
• Fresh herbs count: Add fresh basil or parsley right before serving to brighten the dish.
• Customize creaminess: Mix in a little cream cheese or mascarpone for an even richer sauce.

How to Serve Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top to add color and a fresh herbal note that perfectly complements the creamy, tangy sauce.

Side Dishes

This skillet shines when paired with fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery pasta, or aromatic rice, all of which soak up the sauce beautifully. Roasted or steamed vegetables also provide contrast and balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it family-style right from the skillet for a rustic feel, or plate individual servings over creamy polenta or cauliflower mash for a gourmet touch that impresses guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more overnight, making for excellent next-day meals.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if stored properly in a freezer-safe container. Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months to enjoy anytime with minimal effort.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a little splash of cream or broth can help restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more richness and stay juicy, but remember they may require slightly longer cooking times.

Are sun dried tomatoes necessary, or can I use fresh tomatoes?

Sun dried tomatoes provide concentrated sweetness and tang that fresh tomatoes can’t quite replicate, but you can substitute with cherry tomatoes for a different freshness and texture.

Can I make this dairy-free or vegan?

Yes! Use coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative and swap chicken for mushrooms or tofu to suit vegan or dairy-free diets.

How spicy is this dish? Can I add heat?

By default, it’s mild and family-friendly, but you can easily add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or hot sauce to bring heat to your preferred level.

What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the chicken?

Reheat slowly over low heat with a little added liquid to keep the chicken moist and the sauce creamy, avoiding the microwave as much as possible.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet is an all-around winner for anyone craving a quick, flavorful, and comforting meal. Its enticing combination of creamy sauce and rich tomatoes paired with tender chicken makes weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss. Give it a try and prepare to make it a regular in your recipe rotation!

Related Posts

• Garlic Butter Steak with Parmesan Cream Sauce
• Easy Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake Recipe
• The Best Herbed Ricotta Stuffed

Print