Looking for a tasty one-pan meal that makes dinner feel fancy? Our Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet is perfect! In just 20 minutes, you can make a dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant. Your family will ask for more.
This amazing sun-dried tomatoes recipe is full of flavor. It uses 1.5 pounds of chicken and a few simple ingredients. We’ll show you how to make a meal that’s both healthy and delicious.
This one-pan meal is not only quick but also a culinary journey. It has 42g of protein per serving and a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes. This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet will be your favorite weeknight meal.
Get ready to wow your dinner guests and please your family with this easy yet elegant dish. It shows that gourmet cooking can be simple!
Why This One-Pan Italian-Inspired Dish Will Become Your New Favorite
Discovering the ultimate creamy chicken recipe is like finding culinary gold. Our Italian-inspired skillet dinner changes how you cook on weeknights. It’s simple yet packed with flavor.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
Imagine making a meal like a restaurant in just 30 minutes. This skillet dinner is for those who want great taste with little effort. It’s quick, easy, and delicious.
- Total cooking time: 30 minutes
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 20 minutes
- Serves: 4 people
Restaurant-Quality Results at Home
At RecipeKeepers.com, we think everyone should enjoy amazing meals without needing to be a pro chef. This Italian dish brings fancy flavors right to your kitchen. It turns simple ingredients into a special meal.
| Nutritional Highlights | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 595 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Total Fat | 49g |
| Carbohydrates | 9g |
Budget-Friendly Gourmet Experience
Delicious meals don’t have to cost a lot. Our creamy chicken recipe shows you can make a fantastic dinner without spending a lot. Strategic ingredient selection means you get top-notch flavors without emptying your wallet.
Whether it’s for family dinner or a special occasion, this skillet dinner is a hit. It’s full of flavor and satisfaction every time.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet
Starting an easy weeknight dinner is all about picking the right ingredients. At RecipeKeepers.com, we’ve picked out the best parts for a meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
- Protein Selection: 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons butter for rich flavor
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ cup julienned sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup half-and-half or heavy cream
Quality ingredients make a big difference in a chicken breast recipe. Sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet-tangy flavor that makes this dinner stand out.
Cheese and Finishing Touches
- ⅔ cup shaved or shredded Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan for topping
- Fresh basil or thyme for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pro tip: Use top-notch Parmesan cheese for the best taste. The mix of shaved and grated Parmesan adds a rich texture that makes this dish unforgettable.
Nutrition Highlights
Each serving is packed with about 38g of protein and just 7g of carbs. This creamy sun-dried tomato chicken skillet is not only tasty but also a healthy meal choice for those watching their diet.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
Creating a tasty one-pan meal is easy, even without a fancy kitchen. At RecipeKeepers.com, we aim to make cooking fun for all. The right tools can make your garlic cream sauce truly special.
Choosing the Right Skillet
Your skillet is the key to a great one-pan meal. Cast iron skillets are top picks, but you can use others too. Look for these important features:
- Heavy-bottomed design for even heat
- Minimum 10-inch diameter
- Oven-safe
- Preferably non-stick or well-seasoned surface
Essential Kitchen Tools
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | Precise chicken cutting and garlic mincing |
| Wooden Spoon | Stirring garlic cream sauce |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient portioning |
| Tongs | Safely flipping chicken |
Temperature Control Tips
Getting the temperature right is key for a perfect garlic cream sauce. Here are some tips:
- Use medium heat for even cooking
- Watch for golden-brown chicken (3-5 minutes per side)
- Maintain steady temperature to prevent sauce separation
- Target internal chicken temperature of 165°F
With these tools and tips, you’re set to make a meal that will wow your family and friends!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet is simple! It turns basic ingredients into a meal fit for a restaurant. Follow along as we guide you through each step.
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Then, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Brown the Chicken: Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until it’s golden. Check out our detailed cooking guide for perfect browning techniques.
- Create the Sauce: Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet, add garlic, Italian seasoning, and sun-dried tomatoes.
The sauce is the heart of this dish. Mix in chicken broth, heavy cream, and a lot of parmesan cheese. Stir constantly as it thickens, which takes about 5-7 minutes.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts | 4 (1.25 lbs) | 5-7 minutes per side |
| Parmesan Cheese | 2/3 cup | Added during sauce creation |
| Sun-Dried Tomatoes | 1/3 cup | Added with garlic |
Now, put the chicken back in the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over it. Top with fresh herbs like thyme or basil, and more parmesan cheese. Your dish is now ready to wow your guests!
- Total Cooking Time: Approximately 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: 527
Mastering the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
Making the perfect garlic cream sauce is like a work of art in Italian cooking. At RecipeKeepers.com, we think a great sauce can turn a simple meal into a special treat.
Achieving the Perfect Consistency
The secret to a top-notch sauce is its texture. When making your garlic cream sauce, aim for a smooth, velvety feel. It should glide off the back of a spoon. Here are some tips from the pros:
- Simmer the sauce gently to reduce and thicken
- Whisk continuously to prevent separation
- Add chicken stock gradually to control thickness
Balancing Flavors
Italian cooking is all about flavors working together. Your sun-dried tomato sauce should be tangy, creamy, and savory. Try these ingredients to boost the taste:
- Pine nuts: Add a subtle crunch (¼ cup)
- Fresh lemon juice: Brighten the sauce
- Red pepper flakes: Introduce a gentle heat
- Wilted spinach: Provide color and nutrition
Troubleshooting Common Sauce Issues
Don’t worry if your sauce isn’t perfect at first. Here are quick fixes for common problems:
- Separated sauce? Whisk in cold butter
- Too salty? Add a splash of cream
- Too thin? Continue simmering
- Lacks depth? Sprinkle extra Parmesan
Cooking is all about trying new things and having fun. With practice, you’ll get this garlic cream sauce just right. It will wow your family and friends!
Tips for Selecting and Preparing Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Discover the secrets of sun-dried tomatoes, a key ingredient in Italian dishes. They can make your chicken skillet recipe truly special.
When you go shopping for sun-dried tomatoes, you’ll find two main types:
- Oil-packed tomatoes: Rich and tender
- Dry-packed tomatoes: More concentrated flavor
To get the best taste and texture, proper preparation is crucial. For dry-packed tomatoes, follow these steps:
- Place tomatoes in a heatproof bowl
- Cover with hot water
- Let stand for 30 minutes
- Drain and pat dry
Remember, always drain oil from oil-packed tomatoes to avoid a greasy sauce. You can save the oil for dressings or extra flavor.
| Tomato Type | Preparation Method | Best Used For |
|---|---|---|
| Oil-packed | Drain excess oil | Immediate use in sauces |
| Dry-packed | Hydrate in hot water | Intense flavor dishes |
When chopping sun-dried tomatoes, use a sharp knife for clean cuts. They can be tough, so be patient and slice carefully.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Options
Make your easy weeknight dinner special with creative pairings and presentation. Our Italian-inspired dish comes alive with the right serving options. These choices can make your meal even more enjoyable.
Pasta Combinations
Discover the best pasta pairings for your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken skillet. Here are some tasty options:
- Al dente spaghetti
- Classic fettuccine
- Hearty penne
- Low-carb zucchini noodles
Side Dish Recommendations
Choose the perfect sides to go with your meal. These options balance the rich flavors:
- Roasted asparagus
- Crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic-roasted broccoli
- Crusty Italian bread for sauce soaking
Wine Pairing Suggestions
Find the perfect wine to match your dish’s bold flavors. Here are some great choices:
| Wine Type | Flavor Profile | Best Pairing Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Pinot Grigio | Light, crisp | Complements creamy sauces |
| Chianti | Light-bodied red | Enhances tomato-based flavors |
For more recipe ideas and serving tips, check out www.RecipeKeepers.com. The best meal is one that makes you happy!
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Storing your delicious easy weeknight dinner is simple and straightforward. After enjoying your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet, you can safely refrigerate the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This allows you to savor the rich flavors for multiple meals without compromising taste or quality.
When it comes to reheating, the key is gentle warming. Use a skillet on the stovetop and add a splash of chicken broth to help revive the sauce’s creamy consistency. Aim to heat the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure food safety while maintaining the dish’s delectable texture.
If you’re thinking about freezing your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet, be aware that the sauce might separate slightly upon thawing. A quick stir before reheating will help restore its original smoothness. Remember, proper storage and reheating techniques can help you enjoy this restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.