Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe

This sun-dried tomato chicken recipe promises a burst of tangy, savory, and creamy flavors. It's a simple yet delicious dish that combines succulent chicken breasts with the unique taste of sun-dried tomatoes and a creamy Parmesan sauce, enhanced with a touch of spinach. It's the perfect recipe when you want to make a meal that is comforting yet full of intriguing flavors.

Photos of Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe

Sun-dried tomatoes might not be a staple in every pantry, but they're a key ingredient in this recipe. They have an intense sweet-tart flavor that's much more potent than fresh tomatoes. They're usually found in the canned vegetable aisle or the produce section of supermarkets, either packed in oil or dry. For this recipe, you can use either kind, but if you're using dry ones, you'll need to rehydrate them in hot water for a couple of minutes before using.

Ingredients for Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

Chicken breasts: The star of our dish, chicken breasts are lean, healthy, and absorb flavors well.

Olive oil: Used to cook the chicken, adding a subtle flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Salt and Pepper: For basic seasoning of the chicken.

Butter: Adds a richness to our sauce.

Flour: Helps to thicken the sauce.

Garlic: Provides a pungent, savory undertone.

Chicken broth: Adds depth and meaty flavor to the sauce.

Heavy cream: Adds a velvety creaminess to the sauce.

Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty element to the sauce.

Baby spinach leaves: Adds a touch of color and a slightly bitter flavor that balances the richness of the sauce.

Sun dried tomatoes: Provides a sweet yet tart flavor that's the signature of this dish.

Parsley: Used as a garnish, it adds color and freshness.

One reader, Andriana Baughman says:

This sun-dried tomato chicken recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and the chicken turns out so tender and juicy. The creamy sauce with the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach is a perfect complement. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious and comforting meal.

Andriana Baughman

Cooking Techniques for Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe

How to cook the chicken: The chicken breasts should be cooked for 4 to 5 minutes on each side over medium-high heat until they are golden brown and cooked through.

How to make the sauce: After removing the chicken from the pan, the sauce is made by melting butter, adding garlic, whisking in flour, and then adding chicken broth and heavy cream. The mixture is brought to a simmer and then the parmesan cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes are added and cooked until the spinach has wilted.

How to serve: After the chicken is added back to the pan and the sauce is spooned over it, the dish is topped with parsley and then served.

How To Make Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Sun-dried tomatoes have an aged sharp and mildly sweet taste. This makes a flavorful sauce mixed with cream and spinach for tender chicken breasts.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1¼lbschicken breaststhin, boneless, skinless
1tbspolive oil
Salt and pepperto taste
2tbspbutter
1tbspflour
1tspgarlicminced
½cupchicken broth
¾cupheavy cream
¼cupParmesan Cheesegrated
1cupbaby spinach leaves
½cupsun dried tomatoeschopped
1tbspparsleychopped

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium high heat. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.
Place the chicken in the pan and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the pan. Place on a plate and cover with foil to keep warm. Wipe out the pan with a paper towel.
Melt the butter in the pan. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the flour and whisk until combined with the butter.
Add the chicken broth and heavy cream to the pan. Whisk until well combined. Bring to a simmer.
Stir in the parmesan cheese. Add the spinach and sun dried tomatoes. Cook until the spinach has wilted.
Turn off the heat. Add the chicken back to the pan and spoon the sauce over it. Top with parsley and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 554.10kcal
Fat: 41.78g
Saturated Fat: 19.83g
Trans Fat: 0.38g
Monounsaturated Fat: 15.05g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.18g
Carbohydrates: 8.72g
Fiber: 1.17g
Sugar: 4.37g
Protein: 35.98g
Cholesterol: 174.34mg
Sodium: 580.77mg
Calcium: 173.53mg
Potassium: 652.52mg
Iron: 2.07mg
Vitamin A: 304.43µg
Vitamin C: 5.16mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe

To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit for a fully cooked and juicy chicken breast. Also, when adding the spinach to the sauce, make sure to stir it in gently. This will prevent the leaves from breaking apart and will maintain their vibrant green color.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken in advance to infuse it with flavor. You can also chop the garlic, measure out the ingredients, and wash the spinach and tomatoes beforehand to streamline the cooking process.

One-pan wonder: Opt for a large skillet or pan to cook the entire dish in one go, minimizing the number of dishes to wash and saving time on cleanup.

Multi-task: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce ingredients to efficiently use your time in the kitchen.

Efficient assembly: Organize your workspace by arranging the ingredients and utensils in a systematic manner, making it easier to access everything you need while cooking.

Quick wilt: Speed up the process of wilting the spinach by covering the pan with a lid, allowing the steam to expedite the wilting process.

Streamlined seasoning: Combine the salt and pepper in a small dish beforehand to season the chicken quickly and evenly.

Substitute Ingredients For Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe

Chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts can be used as a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken breasts, offering a similar texture and taste when cooked.
Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
Heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream, adding a rich and creamy texture to the dish.
Parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino Romano: Pecorino Romano cheese offers a similar salty and tangy flavor to Parmesan, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
Sun-dried tomatoes - Substitute with roasted red peppers: Roasted red peppers can provide a sweet and smoky flavor similar to sun-dried tomatoes, adding depth to the dish.
Parsley - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil can be used as a substitute for parsley, adding a fresh and aromatic flavor to the dish.

Presentation Ideas for Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

Elevate the plating: When presenting the sun-dried tomato chicken, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing plate. Use white plates to make the colors pop and arrange the chicken and sauce thoughtfully.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and color to the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a hint of brightness to the overall presentation.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Consider adding a crunchy element to the dish, such as toasted pine nuts or crispy fried shallots, to provide a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce and tender chicken.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the main components of the dish to stand out. Avoid overcrowding the plate and let the dish speak for itself.
Focus on symmetry and balance: Arrange the components of the dish with precision, aiming for symmetry and balance in the presentation. This attention to detail will showcase the dish's sophistication and finesse.
Highlight the vibrant colors: Showcase the rich hues of the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach against the creamy sauce and golden chicken. The visual impact of vibrant colors will captivate the judges' attention.
Emphasize the sauce: Use a small ladle to delicately drizzle the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce around the plated chicken, creating an artistic and appetizing presentation.
Consider the plate as a canvas: Approach the plating as an art form, envisioning the plate as a canvas and arranging the components with creativity and precision to create a visually stunning masterpiece.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Recipe

Pan: A flat-bottomed cooking utensil used for frying, searing, and sautéing ingredients.
Paper towel: An absorbent paper used for drying and cleaning food items and surfaces.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for blending ingredients together and incorporating air into mixtures.
Plate: A flat dish on which food is served or from which it is eaten.
Foil: A thin, pliable sheet of metal commonly used for wrapping and covering food during cooking or storage.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

Let the sun-dried tomato chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the dish, transfer the cooled chicken and sauce to a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification later.
The frozen sun-dried tomato chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat, thaw the frozen dish overnight in the refrigerator. Transfer the contents to a saucepan or skillet and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is smooth and bubbly. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to thin out the sauce if it has thickened too much during freezing.
Alternatively, you can reheat the thawed dish in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.
Note: The texture of the sauce may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the flavor should remain delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover sun-dried tomato chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the chicken and prevents it from drying out.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can use the microwave. Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the chicken, as it can quickly dry out in the microwave.
For a stovetop method, place the leftover chicken and sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Cover the pan and gently heat the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it is warmed through. This method allows you to control the heat and prevent the chicken from drying out.
If you want to add a fresh twist to your leftover sun-dried tomato chicken, try slicing the chicken and using it as a topping for a salad or pasta dish. The cold chicken can be a delicious addition to a fresh, crisp salad or a warm, comforting pasta.
Another option is to shred the leftover chicken and use it as a filling for sandwiches, wraps, or quesadillas. The flavorful chicken and sauce can add a delicious twist to your favorite lunch or snack.

Interesting Fact About Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

Sun-dried tomatoes are a great source of antioxidants, including lycopene, which has been linked to potential health benefits such as reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases.

Is Making Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken at Home Cost-Effective?

This sun-dried tomato chicken recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of chicken breasts and spinach can be budget-friendly, while heavy cream and parmesan cheese may increase the cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10.

Is This Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe Healthy?

This sun-dried tomato chicken recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-rich ingredients like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and chicken breast, which provide vitamins, minerals, and lean protein. However, the recipe also contains high-fat ingredients such as butter, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues if consumed in large quantities or frequently.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative like evaporated milk or Greek yogurt to reduce the overall fat content without compromising the creamy texture
Use a smaller amount of butter or substitute it with a healthier oil like olive oil or avocado oil
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the dish by adding more spinach or incorporating other nutrient-dense options like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms
Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to help control the dish's salt content
Serve the chicken with a side of whole grains like quinoa or brown rice to add fiber and complex carbohydrates to the meal

By making these adjustments, you can enhance the nutritional value of the sun-dried tomato chicken while still enjoying its delicious flavors. Remember, moderation is key, and this dish can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in appropriate portions alongside other nutrient-rich foods.

Editor's Opinion on This Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe

The sun-dried tomato chicken recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The chicken is perfectly cooked and the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce is rich and savory. The addition of spinach adds a pop of color and freshness, while the parmesan cheese brings a nutty and salty note to the dish. The overall balance of flavors is impressive, and the dish is sure to be a hit at any dinner table.

Enhance Your Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for soaking up the delicious sun-dried tomato sauce.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus grilled to perfection and topped with a zesty lemon zest, a refreshing and light side to complement the rich flavors of the sun-dried tomato chicken.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, adding a burst of flavor to your meal.

Honey Roasted Carrots: Sweet and caramelized roasted carrots, a delightful and colorful addition to your plate.

Mixed Berry Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette: A refreshing salad with a mix of fresh berries and a tangy citrus vinaigrette, providing a bright and fruity contrast to the savory sun-dried tomato chicken.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Like Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp: This creamy and flavorful dish is perfect for seafood lovers. The combination of garlic, parmesan, and shrimp creates a rich and satisfying meal.

Mango Chicken Curry: This aromatic and spicy curry is a delightful blend of tender chicken, sweet mango, and fragrant spices. It's a perfect dish for those who enjoy exotic flavors.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This healthy and colorful salad is packed with roasted vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and a zesty vinaigrette. It's a great option for a light and nutritious meal.

Berry Cobbler: This classic dessert is a delightful combination of sweet and tart berries, topped with a buttery and crispy cobbler crust. It's a perfect way to end a meal on a sweet note.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal. Filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, they are sure to impress your guests.

Caprese Skewers: These colorful caprese skewers are a fresh and vibrant appetizer option. With juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, they are a delightful way to start any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is the perfect way to end a dinner party or special occasion.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the luscious combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet, juicy strawberries. Whether it's a classic New York style or a no-bake version, this dessert is sure to impress your guests with its decadent flavor.

Why trust this Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a flavorful experience with chicken breasts cooked to perfection and enhanced with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan cheese. The creamy sauce, made with heavy cream and chicken broth, adds a luxurious touch. The combination of garlic and parsley infuses the dish with aromatic depth. Trust the quality of this recipe, as it has been meticulously crafted to ensure a delightful dining experience.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this Sun Dried Tomato Chicken recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Let's discuss any tweaks, tips, or serving suggestions you may have!

FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the sun-dried tomato chicken?

It takes about 20-25 minutes to cook the sun-dried tomato chicken recipe from start to finish.

Can I use something other than heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half and half for a lighter option, or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and cook the chicken as directed in the recipe.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

While sun-dried tomatoes add a unique flavor to the dish, you can use fresh tomatoes as a substitute. Just be aware that the flavor profile will be different.