Easy Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce

If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, look no further than Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce. This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich, velvety sauce that features the sharp, nutty tang of Parmesan and the vibrant intensity of sundried tomatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a quick and satisfying meal that feels special without needing hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this dish delivers a delicious punch that’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a lifesaver for busy evenings.
• Rich, creamy sauce: The creamy Parmesan sauce coats the chicken beautifully for a luscious bite every time.
• Bold sundried tomato flavor: Sundried tomatoes add a pop of sweet and tangy depth that brightens the dish.
• Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh basics for an easy-to-follow recipe.
• Versatile and customizable: Easy to tweak for different dietary needs or preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its straightforward, essential ingredients—each chosen to maximize flavor, texture, and color in the dish. From tender chicken breasts to a creamy Parmesan blend and the punchy sweetness of sundried tomatoes, every component plays a delicious role.

• Chicken breasts: Skinless and boneless for quick cooking and maximum tenderness.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken evenly.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with deep aromatic notes.
• Sundried tomatoes: Chopped and packed with sweet, tangy flavor and vibrant red color.
• Heavy cream: Makes the sauce silky and smooth with a comforting richness.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty depth that thickens and flavors the sauce.
• Chicken broth: Adds savory moisture and balances the creaminess.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brightens the sauce wonderfully.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh herbal note and a pop of green garnish.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.

Variations for Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to easily tailor it to your tastes or dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients or swap out what you have on hand to keep things interesting and perfectly suited to your preferences.

• Swap chicken with turkey: Use turkey breasts as a leaner option that still absorbs the sauce well.
• Dairy-free version: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Vegetarian twist: Use large portobello mushrooms or cauliflower steaks instead of chicken.
• Herb variations: Fresh basil or thyme can replace parsley for a different aromatic profile.
• Sun-dried tomato oil: Drizzle a little sundried tomato oil at the end for boosted tomato flavor.

How to Make Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté garlic and sundried tomatoes

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then stir in chopped sundried tomatoes. Cook for 1-2 minutes to release their flavor.

Step 3: Create the creamy Parmesan sauce

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine chicken with sauce

Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes so the chicken absorbs some of the sauce’s rich flavors.

Step 5: Finish and garnish

Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a fresh and vibrant finish. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce

• Use room temperature chicken: For even cooking and juicy results.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook chicken in batches if necessary to get a nice sear.
• Fresh Parmesan makes a difference: Use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and flavor.
• Simmer gently: Avoid boiling the sauce to keep it silky and prevent curdling.
• Chop sundried tomatoes finely: This evenly distributes their flavor throughout the sauce.

How to Serve Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes that brighten the rich sauce. You can also finish with a light dusting of extra Parmesan for an indulgent touch.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic buttered pasta help soak up the luscious sauce, while steamed green veggies like broccoli or asparagus add balance with freshness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the chicken sliced atop a bed of risotto or creamy polenta for an elegant twist. You can also serve it over toasted ciabatta slices for a rustic, open-faced dinner that’s perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the chicken and sauce together to maintain flavor and moisture.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container. It’s best to consume within 2 months for optimal taste. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from separating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add extra flavor, but you may need to adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half for a lighter sauce or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative, but the texture and taste will be a bit different.

Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary?

Sun-dried tomatoes give this sauce its signature tangy sweetness, but you could use roasted red peppers for a milder flavor or fresh tomatoes for a lighter twist.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check your chicken broth and seasoning blends for any hidden gluten.

How spicy is the dish?

This recipe is mild by default, but you can add chili flakes or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier kick.

Final Thoughts

Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce strikes the perfect balance between indulgent comfort food and easy weeknight cooking. Its rich, flavorful sauce and tender chicken make for a meal that feels special without any fuss. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious dinner that everyone will love!

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