Sizzling Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet Recipe

Sizzling Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet Recipe

Sizzling with Mediterranean charm, this sun-dried tomato chicken skillet recipe delivers a burst of tantalizing flavors that dance across your palate.

Tender chicken breasts nestle perfectly in a rich, aromatic sauce packed with intense sun-dried tomato goodness.

Garlic, herbs, and a splash of white wine create a luxurious base that turns an ordinary weeknight meal into a restaurant-worthy experience.

Each bite promises a symphony of robust and creamy textures that meld seamlessly on your plate.

The skillet preparation ensures maximum flavor absorption and minimal cleanup, making this dish a true weeknight hero.

Perfectly balanced and incredibly satisfying, you’ll want to savor every single morsel of this mouthwatering culinary creation.

How to Cook the Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

  • Chicken Seasoning Preparation

Blend aromatic herbs and spices to create a flavorful coating for the chicken thighs. Spread the mixture on a plate and gently press each piece of chicken into the seasoning blend.

  • Skillet Searing

Warm a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, developing a delicious crispy exterior. Remove the perfectly seared chicken and set aside.

  • Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce

In the same skillet, craft a luxurious sauce by combining rich garlic, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and smooth dairy ingredients. Stir gently, allowing the cheese to melt and create a velvety texture.

  • Sauce Simmering and Chicken Reunion

Allow the sauce to bubble softly, thickening into a luscious coating. Nestle the cooked chicken back into the skillet, letting it absorb the vibrant flavors. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a bright, herbal finish.

  • Serving Moment

Present the skillet directly at the table, inviting everyone to dig into this mouthwatering meal that blends rustic comfort with elegant flavors.

Tips to Make the Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Shine

  • Marinate the chicken in buttermilk or yogurt for 30 minutes before seasoning to ensure extra tenderness and juiciness. This trick helps break down protein fibers, creating melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Swap parmesan with other melting cheeses like gruyère, fontina, or mozzarella to create unique flavor profiles. Each cheese brings a distinctive richness and depth to the sauce.
  • If the sauce appears too thin, sprinkle a small amount of cornstarch or whisk in an extra tablespoon of parmesan cheese to help thicken and stabilize the mixture quickly.
  • Incorporate sautéed spinach, roasted bell peppers, or steamed broccoli directly into the skillet for added nutrition and color. These vegetables complement the sun-dried tomato sauce beautifully and create a more complete meal.
  • Double the recipe and store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk to maintain the sauce's creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions for Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

  • Mediterranean Elegance Plate: Arrange the sun-dried tomato chicken on a rustic ceramic platter, garnishing with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of parmesan for a restaurant-style presentation.
  • Hearty Side Companions: Pair this skillet sensation with creamy garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a crisp Mediterranean quinoa salad to complete the meal's flavor profile.
  • Wine and Dine Pairing: Select a crisp white wine like pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc that complements the rich sun-dried tomato sauce and cuts through the chicken's savory notes.
  • Leftover Magic: Transform remaining chicken and sauce into a delightful sandwich filling or chop and toss with pasta for a quick next-day lunch that maximizes your culinary creation.

Storage Tips for Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

  • Refrigerator Refresh: Store leftover chicken skillet in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. The creamy sauce might slightly separate, but a quick stir will bring back its delicious consistency.
  • Freezer-Friendly Strategy: Carefully package individual portions in freezer-safe containers. These meals can stay frozen for approximately 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Quick Reheat Technique: Warm the chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat to maintain moisture. Add a splash of milk or water to prevent drying out and restore the sauce's creamy texture.
  • Meal Prep Magic: Prepare the seasoned chicken and sauce components separately during weekend cooking sessions. This approach allows flexible lunch or dinner options throughout the busy week, saving time and reducing daily cooking stress.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 min

Cook Time: 20 min

Total Time: 30min

Calories: 400 kcal

Servings: 5

Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet Ingredients You’ll Need

For Seasoning Blend:
  • Italian Seasoning: A zesty herb mix that adds depth and traditional Mediterranean flair to your chicken.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile and helps tenderize the meat.
  • Black Pepper: Brings a subtle warmth and aromatic kick to the dish.
For Protein:
  • Chicken Thighs: Rich, juicy cut that stays moist during cooking and absorbs flavors beautifully; choose bone-in or boneless based on preference.
For Sauce Components:
  • Olive Oil: Provides a smooth, silky base for the sauce and adds heart-healthy richness.
  • Garlic: Delivers a pungent, aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish's flavor complexity.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Concentrated, tangy ingredient that brings intense, sweet-tart Mediterranean essence.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Offers a salty, nutty undertone that melts into a creamy texture.
  • Milk: Creates a luscious, velvety sauce base with gentle dairy sweetness.
  • Water: Helps adjust sauce consistency and blend ingredients smoothly.
  • Fresh Basil: Bright, herbaceous garnish that adds a fresh, aromatic finish to the skillet.

Tools That Make the Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

  • Large Plate: Perfect for coating chicken with seasoning evenly.
  • Cast Iron Skillet: Ideal for searing chicken and creating a delicious sauce with deep, rich flavors.
  • Kitchen Tongs: Essential for safely handling and flipping chicken during cooking.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for stirring sauce ingredients and ensuring even mixing.
  • Measuring Spoons: Helpful for accurately measuring seasoning and ingredients.
Print
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Sizzling Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet Recipe

Sizzling Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet


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4.6 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 30min
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Mouthwatering sun-dried tomato chicken skillet combines Mediterranean flavors with hearty ingredients. Creamy sauce and tender chicken create a delicious dinner perfect for sharing with family and friends.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (454 g) chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsps olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 0.25 cups sun-dried tomatoes, California Sun Dry, sliced
  • 0.75 cups parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 cup milk of choice
  • 0.5 cups water
  • 2 tbsps Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • Fresh basil

Instructions

  1. Seasoning Preparation: Create a zesty blend of Italian herbs, salt, and pepper on a wide plate. Dredge chicken thighs completely in the aromatic mixture, ensuring thorough coating.
  2. Chicken Searing: Heat cast iron skillet over medium flame, drizzle olive oil if needed. Carefully place seasoned chicken thighs, searing each side for 6-7 minutes until golden-brown and fully cooked through.
  3. Flavor Building: Reduce heat to medium-low, add minced garlic to the same skillet. Introduce sun-dried tomatoes, creating a vibrant base of color and depth. Pour in milk and water, forming a silky liquid foundation.
  4. Sauce Development: Gradually sprinkle parmesan cheese, stirring continuously to ensure smooth melting. Simmer the sauce for approximately 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken and develop rich, complex flavors.
  5. Final Assembly: Return cooked chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves, adding a bright, herbaceous finish to the dish.
  6. Serving: Transfer to plates, ensuring equal distribution of sauce and herbs. Serve immediately while the skillet remains piping hot and aromatic, capturing the essence of the Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Notes

  • Herb Coating Technique: Completely cover chicken with seasoning blend for maximum flavor infusion and even taste distribution.
  • Searing Secret: Use cast iron skillet for perfect golden-brown exterior and lock-in chicken’s natural juices by maintaining consistent medium heat.
  • Sauce Consistency Pro: Stir parmesan gradually and continuously to prevent cheese clumping and achieve silky smooth texture.
  • Fresh Finale: Add basil just before serving to preserve herb’s vibrant color and release maximum aromatic oils for a bright, fresh finish.
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 20 min
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Mia Reynolds

Mia Reynolds

Food Writer & Home Cooking Specialist

Expertise

Easy Home Baking, Recipe Writing and Storytelling, Local and Seasonal Ingredients, Baking for Beginners

Education

New England Culinary Institute (NECI), Montpelier, Vermont

  • Certificate: Baking and Pastry Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Hands-on baking skills, pastry basics, and creating delicious, approachable baked goods.

Community College of Vermont, Winooski, Vermont

  • Degree: Certificate in Food and Beverage Management
  • Focus: Essential knowledge of recipe development, ingredient sourcing, and food business basics.

Mia Reynolds fell in love with baking as a teenager experimenting in her family kitchen. Her passion took her to New England Culinary Institute, where she learned practical pastry techniques, and later to Community College of Vermont to deepen her understanding of food management.

Mia combines clear, simple baking instructions with heartwarming stories, making home baking approachable for everyone.

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