Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce Recipe
Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious, creamy sauce infused with the tangy sweetness of sundried tomatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Sear the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add the Chicken Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Add the Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
- Add the Sundried Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sundried tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Return the Chicken to the Skillet: Place the chicken breasts back in the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is heated through.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh basil and serve hot over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread.
Serving Suggestions
Plating the Dish
- Serve in Portions: Use tongs to place each chicken breast on a plate and spoon the creamy sauce over the top.
- Add a Side: Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Side Dish Ideas
- Pasta: Serve the chicken and sauce over fettuccine or penne pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Complement the rich sauce with warm, buttery garlic bread.
- Steamed Veggies: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add a nice, fresh contrast.
Conclusion
This Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce is a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and tangy sundried tomatoes creates a flavorful and satisfying meal. Try this recipe for your next dinner, and enjoy the delicious results!
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are fully cooked.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
3. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce may be less creamy. Add a bit more Parmesan cheese to thicken it if needed.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
5. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce Recipe
Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious, creamy sauce infused with the tangy sweetness of sundried tomatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 4 (~6 ounce) skinless and boneless chicken breasts, pounded thin
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1/4 cup oil packed sundried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup parmigiano reggiano (parmesan), grated
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a pan over medium-high heat, add the chicken and cook until lightly golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 5 minutes per side, before setting aside.
- Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and saute until fragrant, about a minute.
- Add the wine and deglaze the pan.
- Add the broth, cream, sundried tomatoes and parmesan, bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer until the sauce thickens a bit, about 3-5 minutes.
- Mix in the chicken along with any juices, season with salt and pepper to taste, remove from heat and mix in the basil.