Easy Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting yet quick dinner option, look no further than this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet. This one-pan dish blends tender chicken, rich cream sauce, and the vibrant tang of sun dried tomatoes to create a meal packed with flavor and color. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a recipe that feels indulgent but comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for anyone craving delicious home-cooked food without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Prep: Everything cooks in one skillet, cutting down cleanup and saving you time.
• Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of cream and sun dried tomatoes creates a luscious sauce that clings to every bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: Simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients make this easy to customize.
• Perfect for Any Season: Comforting enough for cooler nights yet light enough for warmer months.
• Family-Friendly: Mild but flavorful, this skillet meal pleases kids and adults alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple with ingredients that balance flavor, texture, and color. Each item plays a vital role in building the creamy sun dried tomato chicken skillet’s signature taste.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and lean, they cook quickly and soak up that rich sauce.
• Sun dried tomatoes: Packed with sweet, tangy flavor that elevates the dish instantly.
• Heavy cream or half-and-half: Adds luscious creaminess and smooth texture.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic brings warmth and aromatic depth.
• Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty kick that melts into the sauce beautifully.
• Olive oil: Essential for sautéing and enriching the flavors.
• Fresh spinach: Adds vibrant color and a mild earthy note, optional but highly recommended.
• Seasonings (salt, pepper, Italian herbs): Simple spices that perfectly round out the flavor.

Variations for Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

Feel free to personalize this recipe! It’s flexible enough to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, or whatever you have on hand in your kitchen.

• Swap the chicken: Use thighs instead of breasts for juicier, more flavorful meat.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute coconut cream or cashew cream to create a vegan-friendly version.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a little heat.
• Extra veggies: Toss in mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for more texture and nutrients.
• Herb swap: Try fresh basil or oregano instead of dried Italian herbs for a burst of fresh garden flavor.

How to Make Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry and seasoning them generously with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. This ensures the meat is flavorful from the start and helps to form a beautiful crust during cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the chicken. Sear on each side until golden brown and nearly cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken to rest on a plate while you build the sauce.

Step 3: Create the Flavorful Base

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sun dried tomatoes, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This step releases intense aromas and infuses the oil with rich tomato flavor.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer gently, scraping up any browned bits on the skillet’s bottom. Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens to a silky consistency.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Spinach

Return the chicken to the pan and nestle it into the creamy sauce. Add fresh spinach leaves, allowing them to wilt gradually in the warm sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the spinach is tender.

Step 6: Final Touches

Give everything a stir to coat the chicken evenly, season with extra salt and pepper if needed, and your skillet meal is ready to serve!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

• Room temperature chicken: Let chicken sit out for 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Sear chicken in batches if needed for the best crust and even cooking.
• Quality sun dried tomatoes: Use oil-packed sun dried tomatoes for more intense flavor and softer texture.
• Grate your own Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts better and has superior taste.
• Simmer gently: Avoid boiling the sauce to prevent cream from curdling and to maintain a smooth texture.

How to Serve Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

Garnishes

Top the dish with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of freshness and color that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside buttery mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or al dente pasta to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve the chicken over a bed of sautéed greens or creamy polenta, adding roasted pine nuts for extra crunch and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover creamy sun dried tomato chicken skillet in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen after resting overnight.

Freezing

This skillet meal freezes well; store portions in freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream sauce from separating. Adding a splash of cream or milk can help refresh the sauce’s texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully and tend to be juicier, adding extra flavor to your creamy sun dried tomato chicken skillet.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as written it is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check your sun dried tomatoes and other ingredients for hidden gluten if you are highly sensitive.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, swap heavy cream for coconut or cashew cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives to make this dish suitable for lactose intolerant and vegan diets.

How long does this dish take to prepare?

The entire recipe can be made in about 25 to 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknight dinners.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat slowly on low heat to avoid the sauce curdling. Stir frequently and add a splash of cream or broth to maintain creaminess.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet is a shining example of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether you’re feeding family or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish promises to deliver comfort, flavor, and happiness in every bite. Give it a try—you might just find your new weeknight favorite!

Related Posts

• How to Make Chipotle Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes with Cheese
• Easy Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zoodles Recipe
• Why Loaded Carne Asada Fries with Nacho Dust Rock

Print