Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe: Looking to level up your weeknight dinner game without stressing in the kitchen? This Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to.
With its creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavor, this dish packs a punch without requiring hours of prep.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, it strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and a restaurant-style entrée.
Why You’ll Love This Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe
Here’s the thing: everyone loves a good chicken recipe, but not all are created equal. What sets this one apart is the creamy sun dried tomato sauce—rich, flavorful, and bursting with umami. The chicken comes out juicy and tender, with a golden sear and a flavor-packed crust. You get comfort, elegance, and a Mediterranean twist, all in one skillet.
Plus, it’s quick to make (under 40 minutes), incredibly versatile, and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or veggies. And the best part? It tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen when you barely broke a sweat.
The Perfect Blend: What Makes This Dish Stand Out
Think creamy Alfredo meets rustic Italian charm. The combination of sun dried tomatoes, garlic, Parmesan, and heavy cream creates a luscious sauce that clings to the chicken perfectly. Throw in some spinach, fresh basil, or even mushrooms if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s simple but indulgent, and that’s a rare combo in everyday cooking.
List of Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious meal:
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer extra tenderness)
Sun Dried Tomatoes
- ½ cup sun dried tomatoes in oil (chopped)
- Optional: a few extra for garnish
Cream or Dairy Options
- 1 cup heavy cream (or use half-and-half for a lighter version)
Cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best flavor)
Seasonings & Herbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a kick
Oils and Broth
- 2 tbsp oil from sun dried tomato jar
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
- ½ cup chicken broth
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup baby spinach
- ½ cup chopped mushrooms
- Fresh basil for garnish
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before you dive into cooking, make sure you have the following:
- Large skillet or cast iron pan
- Tongs
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups/spoons
Tips Before You Start Cooking
- Room Temperature Chicken: Take your chicken out of the fridge 20–30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t Skip the Sear: A good sear locks in moisture and adds deep flavor.
- Use Sun Dried Tomatoes in Oil: They’re softer, more flavorful, and easier to blend into the sauce.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Fresh Parmesan and garlic elevate the flavor.
- Taste As You Go: Adjust seasoning as the sauce comes together—it makes all the difference.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sun Dried Tomato Chicken
Let’s break it down into easy, foolproof steps.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry using paper towels. This is key to getting a good sear. If the chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This helps them cook faster and more evenly.
Use a meat mallet to flatten them slightly for uniform thickness. This makes a huge difference when pan-frying!
Step 2: Season the Meat
In a small bowl, combine:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Rub this mix generously over both sides of the chicken. Don’t be shy—seasoning is what turns good chicken into amazing chicken.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil + 1 tbsp of the oil from the sun dried tomato jar in your skillet over medium-high heat.
Place chicken in the pan and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. You’re not cooking it all the way through—just building a crust.
Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate. Don’t wipe the pan! Those browned bits are pure flavor.
Step 4: Make the Sun Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
In the same skillet:
- Add ½ cup chopped sun dried tomatoes
- Add 2 minced garlic cloves (if using fresh)
- Sauté for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant
Pour in ½ cup chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up the brown bits.
Now pour in 1 cup heavy cream and bring to a light simmer. Stir in ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese and watch the magic happen.
Optional: Toss in baby spinach or mushrooms at this stage.
Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Return the seared chicken (and any juices) back into the pan.
Spoon some sauce over each piece so it’s nice and coated. This is where the chicken starts to absorb all that creamy, garlicky, tangy goodness.
Step 6: Simmer for Perfection
Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp should reach 165°F or 74°C).
If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it.
Step 7: Finish with Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and sprinkle with fresh basil or extra Parmesan.
Serve hot with your favorite side—pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread all pair beautifully.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Not a fan of stovetop cooking? No problem! This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted for other cooking methods too.
Oven-Baked Version
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Follow Steps 1–3 as listed above (season and sear the chicken).
- Place the seared chicken in a baking dish.
- Prepare the sauce in a skillet as per Step 4.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken in the baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
This method works great if you’re entertaining and want a hands-off approach. The oven keeps everything warm and bubbling while you prep other sides.
Slow Cooker Option
Perfect for busy weekdays when you want dinner ready the moment you walk through the door.
- Lightly sear the chicken (optional but recommended).
- Place the chicken and chopped sun dried tomatoes into your slow cooker.
- Whisk together the cream, broth, cheese, and seasonings. Pour over the chicken.
- Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours.
- Stir in spinach or cheese during the last 15 minutes.
The result? Melt-in-your-mouth chicken with rich, deep flavors thanks to the slow cooking process.
Best Side Dishes to Serve With It
Pairing your sun dried tomato chicken with the right side can take it to a whole new level. Here are some winning options:
1. Pasta
- Fettuccine, penne, or even zucchini noodles work great to soak up all that creamy sauce.
2. Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting base that pairs beautifully with the sauce.
3. Rice
- Basmati, jasmine, or even wild rice adds a mild backdrop that lets the sauce shine.
4. Crusty Bread
- A must if you’re into sauce-dipping (who isn’t?). Garlic bread is a fantastic bonus.
5. Roasted Veggies
- Try roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a healthier, crunchy contrast.
Mix and match as per your preference. This dish plays well with just about anything.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Have leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to keep them tasting fresh:
Storing
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the chicken in sauce in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating
- Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over medium-low, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Microwave: Cover and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warm throughout.
- Oven: Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and reheat at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.
Avoid overheating as it can dry out the chicken and break the cream sauce.
How to Freeze Sun Dried Tomato Chicken
Freezing is a great option for meal prep or saving leftovers. Here’s how:
- Let the dish cool completely.
- Transfer chicken and sauce to an airtight container or freezer bag.
- Label with date and freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat:
- Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven as described above.
Note: Cream sauces may change texture slightly after freezing but still taste amazing!
Variations You Can Try
Want to give the dish a new twist next time? Here are some fun variations:
1. Add Protein Variety
- Swap chicken with shrimp, turkey cutlets, or even tofu for a vegetarian spin.
2. Go Green
- Add kale, spinach, or arugula into the sauce for an extra veggie punch.
3. Spice It Up
- Toss in some chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a fiery kick.
4. Cheese Swap
- Use Asiago, Fontina, or goat cheese for a unique flavor twist.
5. Sun Dried Tomato Pesto
- Mix in 1–2 tablespoons of sun dried tomato pesto for an even more concentrated flavor.
This recipe is like a blank canvas—easy to adjust based on what you have in the fridge or your flavor mood.
Health Benefits of Sun Dried Tomatoes
Besides being delicious, sun dried tomatoes are nutritional powerhouses. Here’s why you should keep them in your pantry:
- Rich in antioxidants: Especially lycopene, which supports heart health and may reduce inflammation.
- Packed with vitamins: A, C, and K are all present in good amounts.
- High in fiber: Supports digestion and keeps you full longer.
- Low in fat, high in flavor: Adds intense taste without extra calories.
Pairing them with chicken, a lean protein, makes this dish both tasty and balanced.
Frequently Asked Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:
1. Skipping the Sear
- Don’t underestimate the flavor a good sear adds to the chicken—it’s totally worth the extra step.
2. Using Dry Sun Dried Tomatoes Without Rehydrating
- If yours aren’t in oil, soak them in warm water or broth for 15 minutes to soften before using.
3. Overcooking the Chicken
- Use a thermometer to avoid drying it out. 165°F (74°C) is the magic number.
4. Not Tasting the Sauce
- Always adjust the seasoning before serving. A pinch of salt or splash of lemon can fix a flat sauce.
5. Skipping Fresh Herbs
- Fresh basil or parsley added at the end can really brighten the dish.
FAQs about Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe
1. Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Use whole milk for better results, or thicken with a bit of flour.
2. What if I don’t have sun dried tomatoes in oil?
Use dry-packed ones but soak them in hot water for 15 minutes to soften before cooking.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute cream with unsweetened coconut milk and use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
The ingredients themselves are gluten-free, but always check labels (especially for broth and cheese). Pair with gluten-free pasta or rice.
5. How do I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce into the cream sauce.
Conclusion
There you have it—the ultimate creamy sun dried tomato chicken recipe, broken down step by step for guaranteed success. It’s simple, flavorful, and adaptable enough to fit any occasion. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or cooking for guests, this dish never fails to impress. Make it once, and it’ll become a regular on your dinner rotation!
