Chicken with Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Sauce

Introduction

Looking for a dish that combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes? Chicken with creamy sun-dried tomato sauce is a delightful option that brings together succulent chicken and a luscious, flavorful sauce. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, a special occasion, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something truly delicious.

The Magic of Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes are a culinary gem. Their intense flavor and chewy texture add a unique depth to any dish they grace.

What Makes Sun-Dried Tomatoes Special

• Concentrated Flavor: The drying process intensifies the natural sweetness and tartness of the tomatoes.
• Versatility: They can be used in salads, pastas, sauces, and more.

How They Enhance Dishes

• Richness: Sun-dried tomatoes add a robust, slightly sweet, and tangy flavor.
• Texture: They provide a pleasant chewy texture that complements softer ingredients.

Ingredients Needed

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce

• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Chicken

1. Select the Right Cuts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean, tender result.
2. Seasoning: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Cooking the Chicken

• Heat the Oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce

1. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.

Creating the Creamy Base

• Add Liquids: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
• Incorporate Cheese and Herbs: Add the grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, and dried oregano. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
• Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

Combining the Chicken and Sauce

1. Return Chicken to Skillet: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
2. Simmer: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to heat through.

Tips for Perfection

• Even Coating: Spoon sauce over the chicken occasionally to ensure it is well-coated.
• Check Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth. If too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.

Serving Suggestions

Best Sides to Pair with the Dish

• Pasta: Serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of pasta for a hearty meal.
• Rice: A side of rice can help soak up the delicious sauce.
• Vegetables: Steamed or roasted vegetables make a great light side dish.

Beverage Pairings

• White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the creamy sauce.
• Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon is refreshing.

Nutritional Information

Caloric Content

• Overall Dish: Approximately 600 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.

Macronutrient Breakdown

• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 40g

Variations and Substitutions

Healthier Alternatives

• Light Cream: Use light cream or half-and-half to reduce fat content.
• Skinless Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with skinless, boneless thighs for a juicier option.

Different Flavor Profiles

• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Herbaceous: Increase the amount of fresh basil or add fresh parsley for a more herb-forward flavor.

Tips for Storing and Reheating

Proper Storage Techniques

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Methods

• Stovetop: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Microwave: Heat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Sauce Preparation Errors

• Overcooking the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly and become bitter. Sauté it just until fragrant.
• Curdling the Cream: Keep the heat moderate to prevent the cream from curdling.

Chicken Cooking Mishaps

• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly. Cook just until done and let them finish in the sauce.
• Insufficient Seasoning: Don’t skimp on seasoning the chicken; it enhances the overall flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sun-dried tomatoes not in oil?

• Yes, but rehydrate them in warm water first to soften.

What type of cream is best for this recipe?

• Heavy cream provides the richest texture, but you can use light cream for a lighter option.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

• Use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese substitute for a dairy-free version.

How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

• Stir in spinach or kale at the end of cooking for added greens.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

• Yes, make the sauce and cook the chicken ahead. Combine and reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion

Chicken with creamy sun-dried tomato sauce is a delightful dish that brings together the rich, creamy goodness of a well-made sauce with the bold, tangy flavors of sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So, why not give it a try and enjoy a taste of this delicious culinary creation?

FAQs After the Conclusion

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

• Yes, chicken thighs work well and tend to be juicier.

What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

• You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or a similar hard cheese.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

• Yes, cook the chicken and make the sauce separately, then combine in the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours.

  Chicken with Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Sauce

  

  Looking for a dish that combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes? Chicken with creamy sun-dried tomato sauce is a delightful option that brings together succulent chicken and a luscious, flavorful sauce. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, a special occasion, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something truly delicious.

  • 750 g / 1.5lb chicken thighs OR chicken breast (skinless and boneless)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Black pepper
  • 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes (strips, drained of oil (Note 1))
  • 2 tbsp oil from sun dried tomatoes jar (Note 1)
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1/2 cup 125 ml white wine (sub chicken broth)
  • 3/4 cup 185 ml chicken broth/stock , low sodium
  • 3/4 cup 185 ml thickened / heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup 30g parmesan, very finely shredded (Note 2)
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard (Note 3)
  • 1 cup basil leaves (packed (optional))

  1. Breast:  Cut chicken in half horiztonally to form 2 thin steaks.
  2. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper. Heat oil from sun dried tomat jar in a large skillet over high heat.
  3. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides – 6 minutes total for thigh or 4 minutes for breast. Remove onto a plate, keep warm.
  4. Add the garlic and cook for 15 seconds until light golden.
  5. Add wine. Bring to simmer and scrape the bottom of the skillet to mix all the brown bits into the wine.
  6. Let the wine simmer for 1 minute or so until the smell of alcohol is gone which means it has evaporated.
  7. Mix in mustard, then add the chicken broth, cream, parmesan and sun dried tomatoes.
  8. Bring to simmer, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened. Stir regularly to dissolve parmesan cheese.
  9. Taste sauce and add more salt and pepper if needed.
  10. Stir through basil leaves, then return chicken into pan. Spoon sauce over and simmer 1 minute.
  11. Serve immediately! Great served over mashed potato, Creamy Mashed Cauliflower or pasta. Or serve with bread on the side to mop up sauce!

  Dinner

  Chicken with Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Sauce