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 fresh basil (chopped)

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that combines simplicity with rich, complex flavors. This Creamy Sun Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken achieves just that. With tender chicken cutlets bathed in a luscious creamy sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, this recipe will quickly become a weeknight favorite. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a delightful meal. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this scrumptious dish!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Creamy Sun Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken is not only bursting with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to whip up. The chicken is juicy and tender, while the creamy sauce adds a luxurious touch. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, rice, or simply alongside a fresh salad, this dish is versatile enough to adapt to whatever you’re feeling. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect candidate for busy weeknights!

Ingredients at a Glance

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

Appliances & Accessories

Large skillet or frying pan – for cooking the chicken and making the sauce.
Meat mallet or rolling pin – to flatten the chicken cutlets for even cooking.
Spatula – for flipping the chicken and stirring the sauce.
Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.

Method: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken cutlets with salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Make sure to coat them evenly to enhance the flavor.

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. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You may need to do this in batches. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt, scraping up any brown bits left from the chicken. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. This will help thicken the sauce.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Broth

Add the pressed garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate Sun Dried Tomatoes and Cream

Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring well. Season with an additional 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Let the mixture simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Basil

Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth, followed by the chopped fresh basil. This will add a beautiful burst of flavor and color to the sauce.

Step 7: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken cutlets to the skillet, allowing them to bathe in the creamy sauce for 2-3 minutes to absorb all those wonderful flavors.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Creamy Sun Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread. Garnish with extra basil or parmesan if desired!

Make It Your Way

Swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
Add spinach or kale for an extra dose of greens.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for varied flavors.

Learn from These Mistakes

To ensure your Creamy Sun Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

Not flattening the chicken cutlets: This can result in uneven cooking.
Overcrowding the skillet: Cook the chicken in batches to ensure a good sear.
Skipping the simmering step: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps develop flavors.
Using dried basil instead of fresh: Fresh basil adds a brightness that dried cannot replicate.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Creamy Sun Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken is great for meal prep! Here are some tips:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens.
This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.

Reader Questions

Can I use canned sun-dried tomatoes instead of jarred?

Yes! Just make sure to drain them well and chop them before adding to the sauce.

Is there a way to lighten up this recipe?

You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of butter used.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then combine and heat just before serving.

What can I serve with this chicken?

It pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad. Garlic bread is also a great option for soaking up the creamy sauce!

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The Last Word

This Creamy Sun Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken truly embodies the joy of cooking at home. With its straightforward method and delightful flavors, it’s no wonder why this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to impress yourself and others with a dish that tastes like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant. Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!