Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

If you’re craving a quick and satisfying dinner, look no further than this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet. This dish is packed with bold flavors, a luscious creamy sauce, and tender chicken, making it a perfect weeknight meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a smooth cream sauce creates a comforting dish that feels fancy without any hassle. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this skillet recipe is sure to become a favorite that you’ll reach for again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Fast Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The silky sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken and tangy sun-dried tomatoes.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet.
• Versatile Meal: Customize with your favorite veggies or swap proteins effortlessly.
• Family Friendly: Appealing flavors that even picky eaters will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet comes together easily but delivers big on flavor and texture. Each component is chosen to enrich the sauce, boost the aroma, or add that juicy, tender bite.

• Boneless Chicken Breasts: Use fresh or thawed, sliced thin for quick cooking and even texture.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Adds an intense, tangy flavor that balances creaminess beautifully.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with aromatic depth and richness.
• Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: Creates the silky base of the sauce with a rich mouthfeel.
• Chicken Broth: Lightens the sauce slightly and adds savory depth.
• Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the sauce for sharp, nutty notes and thickness.
• Olive Oil: Used for a golden sear and flavor-enhancing sauté.
• Fresh Basil or Parsley: Brightens the dish with herby freshness and vibrant green color.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to enhance all flavors.

Variations for Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

This dish is wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to tailor it to your dietary preferences or what’s available in your pantry. You can easily switch things up to make it your own culinary creation.

• Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
• Protein Swap: Substitute chicken thighs, turkey cutlets, or even tofu for a different twist.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to add some heat.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of dairy-based cream and cheese.
• Herb Variations: Replace basil with thyme, oregano, or rosemary to change the flavor profile.

How to Make Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, and season both sides with salt and pepper. This ensures a flavorful base and helps the chicken brown nicely in the skillet.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown and almost cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside to avoid overcooking.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan and lift any browned bits. Add heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan until the sauce thickens and becomes velvety.

Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some sauce over each piece. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to finish cooking the chicken and allow the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh chopped basil or parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

• Even Chicken Thickness: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking time.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed to ensure a perfect sear.
• Use Quality Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for more tender texture and enhanced flavor.
• Simmer Gently: Keep sauce on low heat to prevent cream from curdling.
• Fresh Herbs at the End: Add basil or parsley just before serving to maintain bright flavors.

How to Serve Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, vibrant basil leaves, or a few extra sun-dried tomato pieces on top lifts the dish and adds attractive visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This skillet pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, buttery pasta, or crusty bread to soak up every bit of that delectable sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the chicken on a bed of sautéed greens or atop creamy polenta for a more elegant presentation. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of lemon for added zing and shine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen after a day, making for even tastier meals the next day.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Store in a freezer-safe container without fresh herbs (add those after reheating) and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the creamy sauce from breaking. Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce seems too thick after warming.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Are sun-dried tomatoes spicy?

No, sun-dried tomatoes have a sweet and tangy flavor rather than spiciness, making them a great addition to creamy dishes like this skillet.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, swap heavy cream for coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast for a creamy, dairy-free version.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a slightly lighter but still creamy sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This skillet cooks quickly and stores well, making it an ideal meal prep option for busy weeks.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats a cozy, flavorful meal that’s quick to make and satisfying every time—this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet fits the bill perfectly. Whether you’re cooking on a busy weeknight or impressing friends with minimal fuss, this dish always delivers on taste and comfort. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the delicious blend of creamy sauce and bright tomatoes paired with tender chicken. I promise it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes!

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