Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet

Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet: A Flavorful One-Pan Wonder

Introduction

The Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together the rich umami of sun-dried tomatoes with tender, juicy chicken in one easy-to-make skillet meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish is packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors and is both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is simple to follow and endlessly customizable to suit your taste.

The History

Skillet meals have long been a staple in home cooking due to their simplicity and convenience. The combination of chicken and sun-dried tomatoes reflects a fusion of traditional Mediterranean ingredients with modern American comfort food. Sun-dried tomatoes, which originated in southern Italy, were originally a way to preserve tomatoes without refrigeration. Their intense flavor and chewy texture have made them a popular ingredient in dishes around the world, including this delicious and comforting chicken skillet.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe is built on a few key components that work together to create a rich and savory flavor profile:

• Chicken breasts or thighs – provide a lean source of protein and a tender texture.
• Sun-dried tomatoes – add a deep umami flavor and chewy texture that infuses the entire dish.
• Garlic and onions – form the aromatic base of the skillet.
• Heavy cream or coconut milk – creates a rich, velvety sauce (dairy-free option available).
• Parmesan cheese (optional) – adds a salty, savory finish.
• Seasonings – such as paprika, dried herbs, salt, and pepper enhance the overall flavor.

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prep the chicken: Season chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Sear the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and nearly cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant and softened.
4. Add tomatoes: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for a few minutes to release their oils and flavors.
5. Create the sauce: Pour in heavy cream or coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Let thicken slightly.
6. Combine and simmer: Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer everything together for 5–10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors meld together.
7. Finish with cheese: Optional – stir in grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness and depth.

Tips

• Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for a softer texture and more intense flavor.
• For a creamy texture without dairy, substitute coconut milk for heavy cream and skip the Parmesan.
• If using chicken breasts, slice them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Letting the dish rest for a few minutes before serving allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to settle.

Variations and Customizations

• Add spinach or kale at the end for a boost of greens.
• Include mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables and texture.
• Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein source.
• Top with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
• For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, skip any starchy sides and serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

This dish is high in protein thanks to the chicken and Parmesan cheese, and the sun-dried tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene. Using olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, while heavy cream adds saturated fat and calories. To make it healthier:

• Use low-fat cream or coconut milk to reduce saturated fat.
• Opt for chicken thighs with the skin removed or lean chicken breasts.
• Incorporate leafy greens or other vegetables to increase fiber and micronutrient content.

Per serving (without sides), this dish can range from 400–600 calories, depending on the ingredients used, and is a good source of protein, iron, and vitamin C from the tomatoes.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed preferred)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden brown on both sides but not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
4. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Pour in heavy cream or coconut milk. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Return chicken to the skillet. Simmer for 5–10 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese if using, until melted and incorporated.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

FAQ

Can I use dried sun-dried tomatoes that are not in oil?
Yes, but they may need to be rehydrated first by soaking in warm water or broth for about 20 minutes.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this dish reheats well in a skillet or microwave. The sauce may thicken, so add a splash of cream or water when reheating.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with this dish?
Great with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Summary

The Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet is a creamy, rich, and flavorful one-pan dish that combines tender chicken with intensely savory sun-dried tomatoes. Quick to make and easy to customize, it’s a comforting meal that satisfies the whole family.