Name: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken breast (cut into thin cutlets); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil (or more as needed); 3 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon flour; 3 cloves garlic (pressed); 1/2 cup chicken broth; 4 ounces sun dried tomatoes (chopped); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

Imagine a plate of tender chicken cutlets smothered in a rich, creamy sauce that bursts with the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. This Creamy Sun Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken is not only a feast for the senses but also a straightforward dish that can elevate your weeknight dinners. With minimal effort, you can impress your family or guests with this comforting and satisfying meal. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

The Upside of Creamy Sun Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken

This delightful dish brings together the savory goodness of chicken, the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, and the aromatic freshness of basil. The creamy sauce envelops the chicken cutlets, creating a luscious texture that pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or a simple side salad. Not only is this recipe easy to follow, but it also offers a quick cooking time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, the vibrant colors make it visually appealing, adding a touch of elegance to your dining table.

What You’ll Gather

To make this delicious Creamy Sun Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken, you will need:

2 lbs chicken breast, cut into thin cutlets
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil, or more as needed
3 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon flour
3 cloves garlic, pressed
1/2 cup chicken broth
4 ounces sun dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

Equipment & Tools

Ensure you have the following equipment on hand to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable:

Large skillet: For cooking the chicken and sauce.
Measuring cups and spoons: To measure ingredients accurately.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce.
Knife and cutting board: For prepping your chicken and vegetables.
Garlic press: To easily press the garlic cloves.

Cook Creamy Sun Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken cutlets dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes a nice sear. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, garlic powder, and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken cutlets in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, whisk in the flour, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for about 1 minute, until the mixture is bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Chicken Broth

Add the pressed garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds tons of flavor to your sauce!

Step 5: Incorporate Sun Dried Tomatoes and Cream

Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine. Then, pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6: Final Touches

Stir in the additional salt, parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the cutlets. Allow everything to warm through for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is nicely coated in the sauce.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Creamy Sun Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken hot, garnished with extra basil or parmesan if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad.

Customize for Your Needs

Feel free to make this recipe your own by customizing it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs:

For a lighter option, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative.
Add spinach or kale for a boost of greens and added nutrition.
Swap chicken for turkey or a plant-based protein like tofu for a vegetarian version.
Incorporate other herbs like thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile.

If You’re Curious

This Creamy Sun Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy it over pasta, rice, or even serve it with quinoa for a healthy twist. The creamy sauce is rich and luxurious, making it a perfect choice for date nights or family gatherings. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish!

Store, Freeze & Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), here’s how to store them:

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQ

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

While sun-dried tomatoes provide a concentrated flavor, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just be sure to cook them down a bit longer to release their juices and intensify the flavor.

What can I serve with this dish?

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce!

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge and can be reheated for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut cream or cashew cream, and use a dairy-free cheese option for the parmesan.

Wrap-Up

There you have it—a delicious and easy recipe for Creamy Sun Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken that is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special gatherings. The best part? It comes together in no time, allowing you to enjoy more moments with your loved ones around the table. Don’t wait too long to give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!