Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

Bring Tuscany to your kitchen with this one-skillet Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken! Juicy Italian-seasoned chicken thighs are smothered in a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce, making it an unforgettable dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. In just 30 minutes, you can delight your family or guests with a meal that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream creates a rich, creamy sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Less cleanup is needed since everything cooks in one pan, saving you time on dishes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The savory flavors appeal to both adults and kids, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys their meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken, having the right tools on hand will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups/spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking chicken evenly while allowing plenty of space for the sauce.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for scraping up those flavorful brown bits from the skillet, adding depth to your sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil
• 2 lbs. boneless chicken thighs
• 1 1/2 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• Fresh basil for garnish

How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat sun-dried tomato oil (or olive oil) in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken smooth side down.
3. Cook for 6-7 minutes until golden brown, then carefully flip over.
4. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until fully cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

1. Pour in chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the skillet.
2. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese.
3. Whisk until cheese has melted into a creamy sauce.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over it. Remove from heat and sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken paired with your favorite sides!

How to Serve Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Pasta

• Serve the chicken over cooked pasta for a hearty meal. The creamy sauce complements spaghetti or penne beautifully.

On a Salad

• Slice the chicken and place it on a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with extra sun-dried tomato oil or vinaigrette for added flavor.

With Grains

• Pair the chicken with quinoa or couscous for a nutritious side. These grains absorb the sauce, making every bite delicious.

In Wraps

• Use the chicken as a filling in wraps or tortillas. Add fresh vegetables and your favorite sauce for an easy lunch option.

With Bread

• Serve the chicken with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. This is perfect for dipping and adds a rustic touch to your meal.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top the chicken with additional fresh basil or parsley before serving. This enhances both flavor and presentation, making the dish more appealing.

How to Perfect Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

To ensure your Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh sun-dried tomatoes and herbs to enhance the flavors significantly.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. This allows for even cooking and browning.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the sauce as you cook and adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning according to your preference.
• Let it Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain its juices, ensuring each bite is tender.
• Experiment with Cheese: While parmesan is great, try adding mozzarella or feta for different flavor profiles.
• Garnish Generously: Fresh herbs not only add flavor but also brighten up your dish visually. Don’t skip this step!

Best Side Dishes for Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some of the best options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the richness of the chicken perfectly.
2. Steamed Broccoli: This simple side adds color and nutrients while balancing out the creaminess of the main dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender provides great texture and flavor contrast.
4. Cauliflower Rice: A light, low-carb alternative that works well with rich sauces like that of Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken.
5. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous tossed with veggies makes for a refreshing side that pairs nicely with this hearty dish.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: A protein-packed grain option that offers nutty flavors and complements Mediterranean-inspired dishes beautifully.
7. Green Beans Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with almonds add crunch and freshness alongside your main course.
8. Side Caesar Salad: A classic salad adds crispness and acidity, balancing out the richness of the sun-dried tomato cream sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when trying new recipes like Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not properly seasoning the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken thighs generously with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for the best taste.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Placing too much chicken in the skillet at once can lower the temperature, preventing a nice sear. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
• Not letting the skillet heat up: If you add chicken to a cold skillet, it won’t brown properly. Preheat your skillet with oil until hot before adding the chicken.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F or 74°C) without overcooking.
• Forgetting to scrape the pan: Leaving brown bits at the bottom of the skillet will miss out on rich flavor. Use a wooden spoon to scrape these bits while adding broth.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a pop of flavor and color. Always remember to garnish your dish before serving for that restaurant-style finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days.

Freezing Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe dish on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions commonly asked about making Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken.

What can I serve with Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken?

You can pair this dish with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. The creamy sauce complements many sides beautifully.

How can I customize Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to enhance nutrition and flavor. You can also substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

Can I use other types of chicken?

Yes! You can use boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer leaner meat. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken healthy?

This recipe offers protein from chicken and healthy fats from olive oil and cream. It’s rich in flavor while still being suitable for balanced meals.

Final Thoughts

Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile! With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Don’t hesitate to try different vegetables or sauces; this dish is sure to become a favorite!