This recipe elevates simple chicken breasts to a culinary masterpiece with a rich and vibrant creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. The combination of savory chicken, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy garlic sauce is irresistible, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This dish is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and preparation time, yet delivering maximum flavor impact.
What Makes This Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Creamy?
The creaminess of this sauce comes from a combination of heavy cream and a touch of Parmesan cheese. The cream adds richness and body, while the Parmesan provides a savory depth and a lovely salty tang that balances the sweetness of the sun-dried tomatoes. We'll explore some variations later, allowing you to tailor the creaminess to your liking.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- For the Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup dry white wine (for added depth of flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add another 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté the onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes. If using white wine, add it now and let it simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly reduced.
- Create the Creamy Base: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season and Finish: Stir in the fresh basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and coat them with the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with extra fresh basil if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different types of tomatoes?
While sun-dried tomatoes provide a unique intense flavor and sweetness, you can experiment with other tomatoes. Roma tomatoes, for instance, offer a richer, meatier texture, while cherry tomatoes can add a burst of acidity. However, the overall flavor profile will differ significantly.
What if I don't have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a slightly different flavor profile. However, the sauce will be less rich. You could also add a tablespoon of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before adding the chicken.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, use reduced-fat cream or half-and-half, and add more vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms to the sauce. You can also bake or grill the chicken instead of pan-frying it.
What kind of pasta pairs best with this dish?
This creamy sun-dried tomato sauce pairs well with various pasta shapes. Fettuccine, linguine, or penne are excellent choices because they hold the sauce well.
This recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal that's both impressive and easy to prepare. Enjoy experimenting with different variations to find your perfect creamy sun-dried tomato chicken recipe!
