Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken
A quick skillet meal featuring tender chicken breasts in a silky cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and Parmesan.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness) Can substitute boneless thighs for more flavor.
- 1 handful fresh basil, roughly chopped Or 1–2 tsp dried if out of season.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Or 1 tsp garlic powder in a pinch.
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil preferred) Rehydrate dry-packed in warm water first.
- 3/4 cup chicken broth Use low-sodium if desired.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes Optional for heat.
- 2 tbsp olive oil Or a mix of butter + oil for richer flavor.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream Substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- 1/3 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese Don’t use pre-grated for best melt and flavor.
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4–6 minutes per side, until deeply golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Remove the chicken to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
Making the Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium-low. Add minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, chopped basil, and oregano. Pour in chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Pour in heavy cream and add grated Parmesan. Stir continuously until cheese melts and sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Final Steps
- Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over them to coat.
- Let chicken simmer in the sauce for 2–3 minutes until heated through and sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve warm and enjoy immediately.
Notes
For a thicker sauce, add an extra tablespoon of grated Parmesan or simmer a few minutes longer. Serve over pasta, rice, or cauliflower mash for a versatile option.