Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken
If you’re looking for a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make, look no further than Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken. This recipe combines succulent chicken breasts with a rich, creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor. The sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes complements the savory chicken beautifully, while fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests, this meal is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why It Works Every Time
The secret to the success of Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken lies in its simplicity and the balance of flavors. The combination of coconut oil and spices creates a deliciously seasoned base for the chicken, while the heavy cream melds seamlessly with the tangy sun-dried tomatoes. Adding fresh spinach not only enhances the dish’s visual appeal but also contributes essential nutrients. This recipe is designed to be foolproof, ensuring that you can recreate this restaurant-quality meal in your own home without any hassle.
What Goes Into Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken
To whip up this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 ounces each)
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 8.5 ounces oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic (crushed)
Essential Tools for Success
Before you get started, gather these essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable:
- Skillet or frying pan – for sautéing the chicken and making the sauce.
- Meat thermometer – to ensure the chicken reaches the perfect internal temperature.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring the sauce and combining ingredients.
- Cutting board and knife – for preparing the garlic and spinach.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to accurately measure your ingredients.
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken: How It’s Done
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with sweet paprika, ground oregano, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Ensure each breast is evenly coated with the spices.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sauté for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add the crushed garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Cheese
Once the sauce is simmering, add the fresh spinach leaves and shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the sautéed chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavors.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken warm, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired. Pair it with a side of pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Budget & Availability Swaps
If you’re on a budget or can’t find certain ingredients, here are some simple swaps you can make:
- Chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for a more affordable option.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
- Fresh spinach can be replaced with frozen spinach; just be sure to thaw and drain excess water.
- Parmesan cheese can be swapped for any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Pro Perspective
The beauty of Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken is its versatility. You can easily adjust the flavors by adding herbs like basil or thyme, or even a splash of white wine for an extra depth of flavor. Additionally, consider adding vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers to the sauce for added nutrition and texture. This dish is not only perfect for a weeknight dinner but also makes for excellent leftovers that taste even better the next day!
Freezer-Friendly Notes
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken is freezer-friendly! To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore its creamy texture.
Reader Q&A
Can I use other types of chicken besides breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs or even cutlets will work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure they are cooked through.
What can I serve with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad. You could also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep the creaminess while making it dairy-free.
How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Don’t Miss These
- Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Shrimp
- Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
- One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
That’s a Wrap
With its creamy texture and bold flavors, Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken is a dish that will delight your taste buds and impress anyone you serve it to. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough for special occasions. So go ahead and indulge in this delicious recipe; your taste buds will thank you! Happy cooking!
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken - Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with sweet paprika, ground oregano, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Ensure each breast is evenly coated with the spices.
- Step 2: Sauté the Chicken - In a large skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sauté for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce - In the same skillet, add the crushed garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 2-3 minutes.
- Step 4: Add Spinach and Cheese - Once the sauce is simmering, add the fresh spinach leaves and shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency.
- Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce - Return the sautéed chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavors.
- Step 6: Serve and Enjoy - Serve the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken warm, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired. Pair it with a side of pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- This dish is freezer-friendly! Portion and freeze for up to three months.
- Chicken thighs can be used for a more affordable option.
- Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
