Introduction: A Flavorful Comfort Food Classic
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken isn’t just a recipe; it’s a warm embrace on a plate. This dish is a quintessential example of comfort food, blending the richness of creamy sauce with the intense, sun-drenched flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a dish that evokes feelings of home, family gatherings, and pure indulgence. The combination of tender chicken, the bright acidity of the tomatoes, and the luxurious texture of the sauce creates a truly satisfying experience. It’s a staple for special occasions, yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner, showcasing how effortlessly delicious a few carefully chosen ingredients can be. Flavorful Chicken has been a beloved tradition for generations, and this updated version keeps that heritage alive while adding a contemporary twist. Chicken Recipes have always been a cornerstone of many cuisines, and this dish demonstrates how adapting classic techniques can deliver an exceptional result. The depth of flavor developed during the slow simmer, building upon the base of chicken stock and herbs, is what truly elevates this recipe. You’ll find yourself craving it again and again, a testament to its enduring appeal. It’s a perfect dish to serve with mashed potatoes or a simple green salad to balance the richness. The ingredients themselves – sun-dried tomatoes, cream, herbs – all contribute to a sensory experience that is both comforting and sophisticated. Sun-Dried Tomatoes are a key component, adding not only flavor but also visual appeal with their vibrant red color. This recipe truly embodies the idea of ‘slow food’ – taking your time to develop nuanced flavors and appreciate the process of creating a truly memorable meal. Creamy Chicken Recipes are almost universally loved, and this is a particularly stunning example. It’s an investment in simple pleasures, a guaranteed hit with anyone who appreciates good food and a bit of warmth.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need for This Recipe
To embark on this culinary adventure and create a truly decadent Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken, you’ll need a selection of high-quality ingredients that will elevate the flavor profile to new heights. Let’s break down exactly what you’ll require – quantities are suggested for a standard serving size, adjust to your preference.
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 6-8 ounces each – chicken breasts are best for even cooking).
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 1 (6-ounce) jar of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and roughly chopped – sun-dried tomatoes are essential for the signature flavor.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup of heavy cream, providing the richness and luxurious texture of the sauce.
- Chicken Broth: 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth, offering depth of flavor and assisting in the sauce’s consistency – chicken broth is a key component.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, for richness and flavor – butter adds a delightful taste.
- Garlic: 3 cloves of garlic, minced – garlic provides a pungent and aromatic base.
- Shallots: 1 small shallot, finely chopped, adding a delicate onion-like sweetness. shallots are perfect to add subtle flavor.
- Dry White Wine: 1/2 cup of dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio), for deglazing the pan and enhancing the flavors. dry white wine is used for flavor boost.
- Fresh Rosemary: 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary, chopped – rosemary offers an herbaceous note.
- Fresh Thyme: 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme, chopped – thyme adds another layer of herbal complexity.
- Salt & Black Pepper: To taste – salt and black pepper are crucial for seasoning.
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, for thickening the sauce (optional, but recommended for a smoother consistency).
- Cold Water: 2 tablespoons of cold water, mixed with the cornstarch – cornstarch helps to thicken sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken
Let’s embark on a culinary journey to create a remarkably flavorful and comforting Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken. This recipe, inspired by delicious comfort food is designed for simplicity and maximum taste. Preparation takes approximately 30-40 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Follow these easy steps:
1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by ensuring your chicken breasts are patted dry with paper towels. This will promote a beautiful sear. Cut any excess fat from the breasts—reducing fat content is key for a healthier dish. Season generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder—garlic powder enhances flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) – accurate temperature is crucial for food safety. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Tent it loosely with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the sauce.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add 1 finely chopped shallot (or 1/2 small onion) to the skillet and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until softened. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning—burning garlic produces undesirable flavors.
4. Build the Sauce: Pour in 1/2 cup of dry white wine – white wine adds depth of flavor (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio). Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate. This step is key for building a complex flavor profile.
5. Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Cream: Add 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained) to the skillet. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream – heavy cream creates a rich texture and 1/2 cup of chicken broth. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
6. Thicken and Finish: Whisk in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese – Parmesan adds umami and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water). Continue to simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
7. Return Chicken to Sauce: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet and gently coat them in the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Let simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to reheat completely. For a more intense flavor, cover the skillet during the last few minutes of simmering.
8. Serve: Serve the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken immediately over mashed potatoes, pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well), or alongside a fresh green salad. Garnish with fresh parsley – fresh parsley adds brightness for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy this fantastic and satisfying meal!
Detailed Cooking Steps: From Browning the Chicken to Creating the Sauce
Let’s break down the process of creating this incredibly flavorful creamy sun-dried tomato chicken. The foundation of any great dish is a perfectly browned piece of protein, and this recipe starts with a key step: searing the chicken. First, ensure your chicken pieces – usually bone-in, skin-on thighs or breasts – are patted completely dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of a good sear, so a dry surface allows for maximum Maillard reaction – the chemical process responsible for that desirable browned crust and complex flavors. Heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil – extra virgin is fantastic here – in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron is ideal, if you have one) over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer, but not smoke. Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot skillet, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Overcrowding lowers the temperature and leads to steaming, not searing. Let the chicken sear undisturbed for approximately 5-7 minutes per side, until a deep golden-brown crust develops. Don’t be tempted to move the chicken around – this is what creates that fantastic crust. As the chicken browns, you’ll notice the skin crisping up; this is exactly what you want. Once the chicken is browned on both sides, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Now it’s time to build the sauce, and this is where the heart of the flavor lies. Reduce the heat to medium. If there’s a lot of excess fat rendered from the chicken, carefully drain some off of the skillet – leaving about 2 tablespoons is perfect. Add one finely chopped shallot – shallots – and two cloves of minced garlic garlic – to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Next, add one 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes crushed tomatoes – look for a good quality brand – and one 6-ounce can of tomato paste tomato paste. Stir well to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then add one cup of chicken stock chicken stock, and a pinch of red pepper flakes red pepper flakes for a subtle warmth. Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s cooked through. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh should register 165°F 165°F during this time.
While the chicken is simmering, it’s a good time to prepare the rest of the ingredients. Finely chop one cup of fresh basil basil – add this in towards the end for maximum flavor – and one-half cup of sun-dried tomatoes – sun-dried tomatoes – oil-packed, drained and roughly chopped. Stir the chopped basil and sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce along with the chicken. Finally, season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh basil, if desired. For an even richer sauce, you could stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream heavy cream at the very end, though this isn’t strictly necessary.
Tips & Variations: Customizing Your Creamy Chicken Dish
To elevate your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken to truly spectacular levels, there are numerous ways to tailor the recipe to your personal preferences and dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to experiment – the beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability!
Spice It Up: For a bolder flavor profile, consider incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to your desired heat level. A small chopped chili pepper, like a jalapeño (seeded for less heat) would also add a fantastic depth of flavor. You could also experiment with smoked paprika – just a teaspoon – for a subtle smoky nuance.
Herbaceous Delights: While rosemary is a key component, don’t limit yourself. Fresh thyme, sage, or even a touch of oregano would complement the sun-dried tomatoes beautifully. Adding a sprig of fresh thyme during the simmering process and removing it before serving provides maximum flavor without overpowering the dish. For an even more pronounced herby taste, finely chop a few fresh basil leaves and stir them in at the very end.
Creamy Transformations: If you’re watching your fat intake, you can easily lighten the sauce. Substituting half-and-half for the heavy cream significantly reduces the calorie and saturated fat content. Alternatively, blending in a small amount of Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or low-fat) will add a tangy dimension and a touch of protein. However, keep in mind that Greek yogurt may slightly alter the sauce’s texture – it may thicken slightly more than heavy cream. You can also swap the cream for cashew cream for a vegan version.
Vegetable Additions: This dish is a fantastic canvas for incorporating additional vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms) are a particularly good match, adding an earthy umami flavor. Spinach, kale, or Swiss chard – wilted into the sauce – are also excellent choices, providing essential vitamins and minerals. Roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes would add a delightful sweetness and a creamy texture. Adding artichoke hearts, drained and quartered, is a classic pairing that enhances the Mediterranean flavor. Consider also adding some blanched asparagus for a refreshing element.
Protein Power-Ups: While the chicken is the star, feel free to enhance the protein content. Adding cooked shrimp or scallops would create a fantastic seafood variation. Diced pancetta or bacon, rendered until crispy, adds a salty, smoky dimension that perfectly complements the sun-dried tomatoes. A few cooked chickpeas or white beans provides a good source of plant-based protein and adds creaminess.
Global Inspirations: To truly personalize your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken, draw inspiration from different cuisines. A touch of curry powder, ginger, and lemongrass would create a vibrant Thai-inspired version. A sprinkle of cumin, coriander, and a pinch of cinnamon would lend it a Moroccan flair. Even a small amount of harissa paste – a spicy North African chili paste – would add a complex, smoky heat. Don’t be afraid to get creative and build your own unique flavor profile! Exploring globally inspired recipes can provide helpful guidance.
Recipe Notes: Making it Lighter or Adding Extra Flavors
This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences and dietary needs. If you’re looking to lighten things up without sacrificing flavor, several simple swaps can make a significant difference. Substituting half-and-half for the heavy cream, as suggested in the recipe notes, reduces the calorie and fat content considerably, while maintaining a luscious texture. For an even lighter version, consider using unsweetened almond milk or cashew milk – just be mindful that these alternatives may slightly alter the flavor profile, adding a subtle nuttiness.
Beyond reducing the richness of the sauce, you can easily incorporate additional layers of flavor. Mushrooms, particularly cremini or shiitake, are a fantastic addition, offering an earthy depth that complements the sun-dried tomatoes beautifully. Sautéing a small can (drained) of mushrooms with a little garlic and thyme before adding them to the sauce is a foolproof way to boost the savory notes. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes introduces a welcome warmth and subtle heat, playing well with the tangy tomatoes.
Herbs are another crucial element. Fresh basil, added at the very end, provides a vibrant, aromatic finish, while dried oregano or thyme, incorporated earlier in the cooking process, contribute a more robust, savory character. A sprig of fresh rosemary, simmered for the last 10 minutes, infuses the chicken with a piney fragrance. Consider adding a splash of white wine – a dry Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio – during the initial sautéing of the mushrooms; the alcohol evaporates during cooking, leaving behind a complex, wine-infused flavor. Lemon zest, added with the fresh basil, brightens the entire dish, counterbalancing the richness of the sauce.
For a richer, more decadent experience, you can incorporate a tablespoon of mascarpone cheese – stirred in at the end – which adds a velvety texture and a subtle sweetness. A small amount of grated Parmesan cheese, added alongside the mascarpone, amplifies the umami flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices too! A pinch of smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness, while a dash of nutmeg provides a warm, comforting note. To add a touch of sweetness, a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup can be stirred in at the end. Ultimately, this recipe is a foundation; feel free to adjust the seasonings and ingredients to suit your personal tastes. flavor combinations are key to creating a truly exceptional dish. sun-dried tomato recipes offer inspiration for variations.
Nutritional Information: Calories, Macros & Vitamins
This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal, and understanding its nutritional profile can help you incorporate it into a balanced diet. Let’s break down the approximate nutritional information per serving, keeping in mind that these figures can vary slightly depending on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Calories: Approximately 580 kcal. This provides a good source of energy, suitable for active individuals or those seeking a hearty meal. A full understanding of the caloric content helps in managing daily dietary intake. calories
Macronutrients:
- Carbohydrates: 4 grams. These primarily come from the sun-dried tomatoes and any added vegetables, providing a small amount of readily available energy. carbohydrates
- Protein: 44 grams. Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, crucial for muscle building and repair, satiety, and overall bodily functions. protein
- Fat: 41 grams. This includes both saturated and unsaturated fats, mainly from the butter/cream used in the sauce. While higher in fat, the fat in this recipe is mostly healthy fats, contributing to vitamin absorption and hormone production. fat
Vitamins (Approximate per Serving):
- Vitamin A: 1184 IU – Crucial for vision, immune function, and cell growth. The chicken itself provides a significant amount of Vitamin A. Vitamin A
- Vitamin C: 5 mg – An essential antioxidant that supports immune function and collagen production. Adding fresh herbs like rosemary can further boost Vitamin C content. Vitamin C
- Folate: Approximately 80 mcg – Vital for cell division and DNA synthesis, particularly important during pregnancy. Folate
- Vitamin B12: Approximately 2.5 mcg – Essential for nerve function and red blood cell formation. Vitamin B12
- Vitamin D: (Variable – depends on ingredients). Adding fortified butter or incorporating the chicken with Vitamin D enriched eggs can significantly increase this. Vitamin D
Minerals (Approximate per Serving):
- Iron: 4.5 mg – Necessary for carrying oxygen in the blood. The chicken is a good source of heme iron, which is more readily absorbed than non-heme iron. Iron
- Potassium: 653 mg – Important for regulating blood pressure and nerve function. Potassium
- Calcium: 329 mg – Vital for strong bones and teeth. Calcium
- Zinc: Approximately 2.5 mg – Supports immune function and wound healing. Zinc
Disclaimer: These are estimated nutritional values and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods. For precise nutritional information, we recommend using a nutrition analysis tool or app, considering the specific brands and quantities used in your recipe. Nutrition analysis
Serving Suggestions: Perfect Pairings for Your Chicken
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken is a remarkably versatile dish, lending itself beautifully to a wide array of accompaniments. Its rich, savory sauce and tender chicken create a comforting experience, but the possibilities for elevating the meal extend far beyond the basic. Let’s explore some suggested pairings to truly unlock its full potential.
Classic Comfort Sides: Naturally, a starchy side dish like mashed potatoes (mashed potatoes are a superb choice, offering a creamy counterpoint to the tangy sauce. Alternatively, roasted garlic mashed potatoes (roasted garlic mashed potatoes) will add an extra layer of flavor. Creamy parmesan risotto (parmesan risotto) provides an elegant, indulgent addition.
Vegetable Harmony: To balance the richness, incorporating fresh or roasted vegetables is highly recommended. Asparagus (asparagus) – grilled or roasted with a touch of lemon – is a classic pairing, offering a bright, fresh flavor. Green beans (green beans) are another excellent choice, especially when tossed with a little olive oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese. Sautéed spinach (sautéed spinach) provides a nutritional boost and a slightly earthy counterpoint. Roasted Brussels sprouts (roasted Brussels sprouts) – caramelized with balsamic vinegar – adds a complex sweetness and acidity. Even a simple side salad – a crisp mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette – offers a refreshing contrast.
Grains & Pasta: While the chicken itself is delicious, incorporating pasta or other grains can create a more substantial meal. Linguine (linguine) or fettuccine (fettuccine) are fantastic choices, soaking up the luscious sauce. Orzo pasta (orzo pasta) provides a delightful texture, while quinoa (quinoa) offers a healthy and protein-rich alternative.
Wine Pairings: To further enhance the dining experience, consider pairing the chicken with a dry white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc (Sauvignon Blanc) or Pinot Grigio. A light-bodied red wine, like a Pinot Noir, would also complement the dish beautifully. Ultimately, the best pairings depend on individual preferences, so don’t be afraid to experiment and discover your own perfect combination. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful chicken dish with your favorite side – it’s a truly delightful meal!
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