Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

If you’re searching for a quick, flavorful dinner that feels like a restaurant-quality meal but comes together in one pan, look no further than this Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet. Juicy chicken breasts simmered in a creamy sauce bursting with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and parmesan cheese make for an irresistible dish. This recipe is perfect for weeknights when time is short but you don’t want to sacrifice taste or quality. Plus, it’s a comforting crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet recipe stands out because it combines simple ingredients with big flavors. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the creamy parmesan sauce, while fresh spinach brings brightness and a pop of color. It’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish feels special yet approachable.

Not to mention, it’s incredibly adaptable. If you love dishes like Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken, you’ll appreciate how this skillet meal offers similar rich, comforting flavors but comes together much faster on the stovetop. It’s a fantastic way to elevate your chicken dinner routine without fuss.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

How To Make Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step helps release the rich, tangy flavors from the tomatoes.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the broth to simmer for 2-3 minutes to slightly reduce. Next, stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Return Chicken

Toss the fresh spinach into the sauce, stirring until wilted. Then, nestle the chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top. Let everything cook together for another 3-5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is heated through and the sauce is creamy and luscious, your skillet meal is ready. Serve this Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, pasta, or a simple green salad. For a cheesy twist, this recipe would also pair beautifully with a Spinach Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breasts dinner for a full Italian-inspired feast.

Expert Tips

• To ensure even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning and cooking.
• If your sun-dried tomatoes are packed in oil, drain them well to avoid making the sauce too oily.
• Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and a silky sauce texture.
• Don’t skip the step of scraping the browned bits from the skillet after cooking the chicken – this adds incredible depth to the sauce.
• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream but note the sauce will be less rich.

Variations and Customizations

• Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthier flavor boost.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes when cooking garlic for a little heat.
• Cheese Swap: Try swapping parmesan for pecorino romano or asiago for a different cheesy nuance.
• Herb Twist: Fresh basil or oregano can be added at the end for a burst of herbal freshness.
• Make It Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, just be sure your chicken broth is labeled gluten-free.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave to prevent the cream sauce from separating. If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up. This dish also freezes well; freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work beautifully in this recipe. They’re a bit more forgiving and stay juicy, but you may need to adjust cooking time slightly since thighs can vary in thickness.

Do I need to soak sun-dried tomatoes before using them?

If you’re using dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes, soaking them in warm water for 10 minutes will soften them and make chopping easier. If you’re using oil-packed tomatoes, simply drain and chop without soaking.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer of your choice, and use a dairy-free parmesan alternative to keep the sauce creamy and flavorful.

What should I serve with Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet?

This skillet meal pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides such as garlic mashed potatoes, cooked pasta, quinoa, or even a fresh garden salad to balance the richness. For more creamy chicken ideas, check out this Creamy Chicken And Gnocchi recipe for inspiration.

Conclusion

This Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet offers a deliciously easy way to bring bold, comforting flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. The creamy tomato sauce, tender chicken, and fresh spinach create a harmonious dish that’s perfect for busy nights or casual entertaining. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a go-to in your meal rotation—simple, satisfying, and endlessly delicious.

Share on Pinterest