Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

If you’re searching for a quick, satisfying dinner that bursts with rich flavors, this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet is exactly what your weeknight meals have been missing. Combining tender chicken, tangy sun dried tomatoes, and a luscious creamy sauce, this recipe brings together simple ingredients for an incredible taste experience that feels both luxurious and comforting. It’s easy to prepare, full of vibrant colors, and perfect for those evenings when you want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes with straightforward steps perfect for busy nights.
• Rich and creamy taste: The combination of cream and sun dried tomatoes provides a velvety sauce packed with flavor.
• Versatile and customizable: Adapt the recipe easily to your preferences by adding veggies or swapping proteins.
• Colorful and appetizing: The vibrant tomatoes and fresh herbs make this skillet visually appealing at any table.
• Comfort food with a twist: Classic creamy chicken meets the delightful tang of sun dried tomatoes for a unique flavor profile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet plays a crucial role, from the lush creaminess to the pop of tangy tomatoes and the subtle earthiness of spices. The balance is what makes this dish irresistible and easy to enjoy.

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Choose boneless and skinless for even cooking and tenderness.
• Sun dried tomatoes: Packed with concentrated flavor, they add a pleasant tang and chewy texture.
• Heavy cream or half and half: Creates the silky, rich sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh minced garlic enhances the aroma and depth of the dish.
• Chicken broth: Adds moisture and builds the foundation of the sauce’s savory taste.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated cheese melts into the sauce for extra creaminess and a salty punch.
• Olive oil or butter: Used to sauté the chicken and garlic, bringing out the caramelized flavors.
• Fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or thyme): Garnish and flavor lift that brightens the richness.
• Salt and pepper: Season generously to enhance all elements of the dish.
• Optional red pepper flakes: Add a gentle heat if you like a little kick with your creamy chicken.

Variations for Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily tweak ingredients or add your favorite flavors to suit dietary needs or personal taste. Feel free to experiment and keep the base recipe your own.

• Use chicken thighs: Swap breasts for thighs if you prefer juicier, more flavorful meat.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a rich, plant-based option.
• Add spinach or kale: Stir in fresh greens during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
• Include mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms with garlic to enhance earthiness and texture.
• Try different cheeses: Mozzarella or goat cheese can replace Parmesan for a different creamy flavor.
• Spice it up: Add smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for a smoky or spicy twist.

How to Make Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Begin by seasoning the chicken generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté garlic and sun dried tomatoes

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sun dried tomatoes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the tomatoes soften slightly, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 3: Create the creamy sauce

Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the skillet, scraping up the browned bits. Then, add heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.

Step 4: Combine chicken with sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning some sauce over each piece. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to heat through.

Step 5: Add fresh herbs and adjust seasoning

Sprinkle chopped basil, parsley, or thyme over the dish, then taste and adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot, directly from the skillet for that rustic charm.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

• Use room temperature chicken: It cooks more evenly and prevents the outside from drying out.
• Don’t skip deglazing: Scraping up those browned bits adds unbeatable depth to your sauce.
• Simmer gently: Avoid boiling the cream; slow heat prevents it from curdling and keeps it silky.
• Slice sun dried tomatoes finely: Smaller pieces distribute flavor better and improve sauce texture.
• Serve immediately: The sauce thickens as it cools, so enjoy it warm for the best consistency.

How to Serve Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese brighten the plate and add fresh notes to the rich dish.

Side Dishes

This skillet pairs beautifully with buttery mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even crusty bread to soak up every bit of the creamy sun dried tomato sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the chicken sliced atop a bed of zucchini noodles or over creamy polenta for a delightful twist on presentation and texture variety.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftover chicken and sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This dish freezes well; place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave on medium power to prevent the cream sauce from separating or curdling.

FAQs

Can I use dried tomatoes instead of sun dried tomatoes?

Dried tomatoes that aren’t soaked or preserved in oil may not provide the same tender texture or robust flavor, so sun dried tomatoes are preferred.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free chicken broth.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

For a lighter sauce, you can use half and half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese, though the sauce will be less thick and rich.

Can I use chicken thighs in this recipe?

Absolutely! Thighs add extra juiciness and flavor; just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.

How do I make this dish spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when sautéing garlic to give the sauce a gentle heat kick.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet is genuinely a game-changer for busy evenings when flavor and ease are a must. It’s a delicious way to transform simple ingredients into a comforting, restaurant-quality meal everyone will love. Go ahead, try it out, and watch your weeknight dinners become something extraordinary!

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