Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Chicken (Printable version)
Creamy chicken simmered in a flavorful sun-dried tomato cream sauce, cooked all in one pan.
# Ingredient List:
→ Chicken
01 - 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
02 - 1 teaspoon salt
03 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
→ Sauce
06 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
07 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
08 - 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and sliced
09 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
10 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
11 - 1 cup chicken broth
12 - 1 cup heavy cream
13 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
14 - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil plus extra for garnish
# How to Make It:
01 - Season both sides of each chicken breast thoroughly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor penetration.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken breasts and sear for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown develops. Transfer to a plate and reserve.
03 - Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet and allow to melt. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
04 - Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes to develop flavors and soften the tomatoes.
05 - Pour in chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up and dissolve any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in heavy cream and bring mixture to a gentle simmer.
06 - Add Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes, stirring continuously until cheese completely melts and sauce thickens slightly, approximately 3 minutes.
07 - Return chicken breasts to the pan, nestling them into the sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F and sauce reaches desired consistency.
08 - Stir in chopped fresh basil just before serving to preserve its bright flavor and color.
09 - Plate chicken breasts with generous sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for presentation.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- This one-pan wonder means you spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal
- The sauce is so luxurious and velvety that it instantly makes any weeknight feel like a special occasion
02 -
- Don't rush the sear, those golden brown bits are what make the sauce taste like it simmered all day
- Let the sauce come to room temperature slightly before reheating, and add a splash of cream if it seems too thick
03 -
- Room temperature chicken sears more evenly than cold from the fridge
- Grate your own Parmesan from a wedge, pre-grated cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting