Chicken with Sun Dried Tomato Sauce

When I think about comfort food, Chicken with Sun Dried Tomato Sauce immediately comes to mind. This dish has been a staple in my home for years, often making an appearance during family gatherings and cozy weeknight dinners alike. The best part about it is how quickly it comes together! I remember one evening when I was hosting friends for dinner, and I wanted to impress them without spending all day in the kitchen. That’s when I decided to whip up this delectable recipe. As the aroma of the chicken and sun-dried tomatoes filled the air, my friends couldn’t help but ask what I was cooking. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, and it’s not just about taste; it’s about the memories we create while cooking and sharing meals together. Whether it’s served over pasta or alongside a fresh salad, this dish never fails to bring smiles around the table.

Everything You Need for Chicken with Sun Dried Tomato Sauce

To create a delightful Chicken with Sun Dried Tomato Sauce, you’ll want to gather fresh, high-quality ingredients that complement each other beautifully. The key players in this dish are the chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and heavy cream, which together create a rich, flavorful sauce. Each ingredient serves a purpose, combining to form a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

• 1 tablespoon butter: This forms the base of your sauce, adding richness and flavor.
• 1 garlic clove, pushed through a garlic press: A must for that aromatic kick that enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: This helps thicken your sauce, providing the perfect creamy consistency.
• 3/4 cup chicken broth, divided: Using broth adds depth to the sauce while keeping it moist.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: The secret to a luscious, creamy texture that coats the chicken beautifully.
• 3 tablespoons sun-dried tomato slivers in oil: A star ingredient that adds a tangy, savory flavor.
• 1 tablespoon of oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes: This oil is packed with flavor and makes a great base for sautéing.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: For a subtle herbaceous note that rounds out the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper: This adds a touch of heat, which can be adjusted based on your preference.
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, flattened into an even thickness: The main protein, ensuring a satisfying meal.
• 1 (8-ounce) box farfalle or pasta of your choice, cooked to al dente: The perfect accompaniment to soak up the delicious sauce.
• 1 cup peas, cooked: Adds a fresh pop of color and nutrition to the dish.

How to Prepare Chicken with Sun Dried Tomato Sauce

Cooking Chicken with Sun Dried Tomato Sauce is a delightful experience that fills the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. It’s a straightforward process, and I love how the ingredients come together to create something so special. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have a fantastic dish ready in no time.

1. Start by melting butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This is where our sauce begins to take shape. As the butter melts, it should become bubbly and fragrant.

2. Add the garlic to the skillet, letting it cook for about 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell that delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.

3. Next, stir in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly. This helps to cook off the raw flour taste and creates a roux, which will thicken your sauce.

4. Gradually add in 1/2 cup of the chicken broth, whisking well to avoid any clumps. This step ensures a smooth sauce, so take your time whisking until everything is well blended.

5. Add the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, thyme, salt, and crushed red pepper to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook for one minute, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

6. Pour the sauce into a small bowl and set aside. Wipe the skillet clean to prepare it for the chicken.

7. Place the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes into the skillet and heat over medium-high heat. This oil carries all the flavors from the tomatoes, making it perfect for sautéing.

8. Carefully add the chicken to the skillet, cooking until browned and cooked through, which should take about four minutes per side. You want the chicken to have a nice golden color and be fully cooked.

9. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm while you finish the sauce.

10. Add the remaining 1/4 cup of chicken broth to the skillet, bringing it to a boil. Scrape up any delicious brown bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon; these bits are packed with flavor!

11. Mix in the reserved sauce, adding back the chicken once the mixture is heated through. It’s important to warm the sauce instead of cooking it further; you want to maintain that creamy texture.

12. Finally, toss the cooked pasta and peas together in a large bowl. Divide the pasta mixture between four plates and top with the chicken and sauce.

Variations to Try

If you’re ready to get creative with your Chicken with Sun Dried Tomato Sauce, I’ve got some exciting variations for you! Each twist adds a unique flair to the dish while keeping it as delicious as ever.

• Veggie Boost: Add in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a nutritious boost and added flavor.
• Different Proteins: Swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a seafood twist or vegetarian version.
• Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano to change the flavor profile.
• Cheesy Addition: Stir in some grated parmesan or mozzarella cheese for an extra creamy texture and delicious cheesy flavor.
• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, add more crushed red pepper or even some fresh chopped jalapeños for an exciting kick.
• Whole Grain Pasta: Try using whole grain or gluten-free pasta to fit dietary preferences while keeping the dish hearty.
• Serve with a Twist: Serve over risotto or rice for a different base that complements the sauce beautifully.

Perfect Matches for Chicken with Sun Dried Tomato Sauce

When it comes to serving Chicken with Sun Dried Tomato Sauce, there are plenty of delightful pairings that can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent choices:

• Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Green Salad: A light mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful and nutritious side.
• Quinoa: For a healthy twist, consider serving the chicken over a bed of quinoa; its nutty flavor pairs nicely.
• Wine Pairing: While I keep it alcohol-free, a non-alcoholic sparkling drink can be refreshing alongside this meal.
• Festive Gatherings: This dish is great for holiday dinners or family gatherings; it impresses without much fuss.
• Casual Lunch: Leftovers make for a fantastic lunch option; just reheat and enjoy!

FAQ

Conclusion

Chicken with Sun Dried Tomato Sauce is a dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. With its creamy sauce and delightful flavors, it’s a recipe you won’t forget. I encourage you to try making it tonight; you’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how satisfying every bite will be!

Chicken with Sun Dried Tomato Sauce

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken with Sun Dried Tomato Sauce offers a creamy, savory delight that’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. This dish brings together rich flavors and tender chicken, making it a must-try tonight!

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Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon Butter
• 1 clove Garlic
• 1 tablespoon All-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup Chicken broth divided
• 1/2 cup Heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons Sun-dried tomato slivers in oil
• 1 tablespoon Oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes
• 1/4 teaspoon Dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon Crushed red pepper
• 4 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts flattened into an even thickness
• 1 box Farfalle or pasta of your choice cooked to al dente
• 1 cup Peas cooked

Instructions

 

• Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute.
• Gradually stir in 1/2 cup chicken broth, whisking well to avoid clumps. Add heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, thyme, salt, and crushed red pepper. Bring to a boil and cook 1 minute. Pour into small bowl and set aside. Wipe skillet clean.
• Place sun-dried tomato oil in the skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Sauté chicken in oil until browned and cooked through, approximately 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
• Add remaining 1/4 cup chicken broth to skillet and bring to a boil. Scrape any brown pieces up with a wooden spoon. Mix in reserved sauce, add chicken and remove from heat once mixture is sufficiently warmed.
• Toss pasta and peas together and divide between 4 plates. Top with chicken breast and sauce.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.
• Freezing: You can freeze the sauce separately from the chicken for up to a month.
• Pairing: Serve with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Make Ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
• Spice Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the level of crushed red pepper to suit your taste!

Keyword chicken recipes, comfort food, Easy Dinner Ideas, Sun Dried Tomato Sauce

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Meet Natalie Cole

I’m Natalie! I appreciate simple, honest food that nourishes the soul without requiring hours of effort. I’m always looking for smart shortcuts that save time but never sacrifice quality or taste. I cooked and photographed this meal right here in our kitchen, capturing every step to show you that a beautiful, cozy dinner is completely within reach.