Imagine a dish so luxuriously creamy and bursting with rich, tangy flavors that it transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience. This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Chicken is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that combines the rustic charm of Italian cuisine with the comfort of a perfectly cooked chicken breast. Prepare to be transported to a sun-drenched Italian kitchen with every single bite of this irresistible recipe that promises to become your new favorite go-to dinner.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once hot, place chicken breasts in the pan and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a plate, covering with foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to enhance flavor.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and simmer sauce for 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
- Return chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning sauce over each piece to coat thoroughly.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to reheat chicken and allow sauce to further reduce.
- Garnish with fresh chopped basil before serving.
- Plate chicken and spoon extra sauce over the top. Serve immediately with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden-brown sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches exactly 165°F for food safety and juicy results.
- Don't rush the garlic sautéing - 30-45 seconds is key to releasing its aromatic flavors without burning.
- For extra richness, use sun-dried tomatoes packed in olive oil for more intense flavor.
- If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a little extra chicken broth; if too thin, let it simmer a bit longer.
- Fresh basil is crucial - chop it just before garnishing to maintain its bright, aromatic quality.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream without losing too much creaminess.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 160mg
