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

If you’re craving a rich, flavorful dish that’s both comforting and impressive, Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce is your new best friend in the kitchen. This recipe brings together tender chicken breasts bathed in a luscious, cheesy, and tangy sauce made with Parmesan cheese and sundried tomatoes, creating a perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy and become a favorite repeat meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The creamy Parmesan base combined with the intense sweetness of sundried tomatoes creates incredible depth and richness.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
• Family-Friendly: Mild yet satisfying flavors appeal to kids and adults alike, making it a crowd-pleaser.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses simple pantry staples that blend beautifully without complicated prep.
• Versatile Serving Options: Goes great with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread to soak up every bit of sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each one contributes to the overall texture, flavor, or color, ensuring an elegant dish without fuss.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, they cook quickly and soak up the sauce perfectly.
• Sundried tomatoes: Packed with intense, tangy sweetness that brightens the creamy sauce.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated provides a salty, nutty richness that forms the sauce base.
• Heavy cream: Creates the silky, smooth texture that makes the sauce decadently creamy.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and a savory kick, enhancing every bite.
• Olive oil: Essential for sautéing the chicken and garlic to golden perfection.
• Basil or Italian herbs: Fresh or dried, they offer a fragrant herbal note to finish the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the vibrant flavors.

Variations for Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce

Feel free to adjust this recipe to your taste or dietary preferences. Its flexible base invites creativity without compromising on flavor or texture.

• Swap the chicken: Use boneless thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat or turkey breast for a leaner option.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu for a satisfying plant-based version.
• Add heat: Toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a subtle spicy kick.
• Use different cheese: Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a sharper, tangier cheese twist.
• Lighten it up: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free sauce.

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

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the aromatics

Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and diced sundried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure the garlic doesn’t burn. This step builds the flavorful base of your sauce.

Step 3: Make the creamy sauce

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to loosen any browned bits from the pan. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese slowly, stirring continuously to melt the cheese into a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs to taste.

Step 4: Combine chicken and sauce

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top so they soak up that creamy goodness. Simmer everything together for 5 more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

Turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh basil or parsley to brighten the dish. Serve immediately while hot, paired with your favorite sides.

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

• Use room temperature chicken: It cooks more evenly and stays tender.
• Don’t rush the sear: Getting a golden crust locks in flavor and moisture.
• Add cheese gradually: Prevents clumping and ensures a silky sauce.
• Control heat carefully: Too high and the cream may curdle; keep it at medium-low when adding dairy.
• Sundried tomato quality matters: Choose oil-packed tomatoes for juicier texture and better flavor.

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

Garnishes

Freshly chopped basil, parsley, or even a sprinkle of extra Parmesan adds a lovely bright and savory finish. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also elevate the presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with al dente pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or even a simple green salad to cut through the richness and provide balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the chicken sliced on a large platter with the sauce spooned artfully across the top. Add colorful roasted vegetables or garnish with edible flowers to impress your guests visually as well as in flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to keep flavors fresh.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to seal tightly. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on low heat in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain sauce consistency. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it.

FAQs

Is Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce difficult to make?

Not at all! This recipe is straightforward, with quick steps and minimal ingredients, perfect for cooks of all levels.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sundried?

Fresh tomatoes won’t provide the same intensity of flavor, but you can roast or slow-cook them to mimic the concentrated taste if desired.

What can I serve with this dish?

Pasta, rice, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables make excellent sides to complement the creamy sauce and tender chicken.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes! Just ensure your Parmesan and sundried tomatoes are gluten-free, and you’ll have a naturally gluten-free meal.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use light cream or substitute with Greek yogurt or coconut cream, and consider skinless thighs for more flavor with less fat.

Final Thoughts

Chicken in a Creamy Parmesan and Sundried Tomato Sauce is a spectacular way to transform simple ingredients into a memorable meal full of warmth and flavor. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe promises comfort, elegance, and joy on every plate. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Print