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Discover This Quick Family Favorite: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet
Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, and you’re craving something rich and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. This one-pan creamy sun dried tomato chicken skillet delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 30 minutes. A garlic-infused cream sauce coats tender chicken, while sweet sun dried tomatoes and fresh spinach add vibrant color and nutrition. Serve it over pasta or alongside crusty bread to soak up every drop. It’s perfect for hectic evenings or effortless entertaining.
What Makes This Dish Shine
Beyond its speed, this recipe is all about balance:
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Sun dried tomatoes provide concentrated sweetness that balances the creamy sauce.
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Fresh spinach wilts beautifully, adding nutrients and bright green color.
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The creamy base offers richness without feeling overly heavy (dairy-free options included below).
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One-pan cooking keeps cleanup simple.
Key Ingredients Explained
Here’s why each ingredient works so well:
Core Ingredients
Chicken Breasts (1.5 lbs, thinly sliced)
Slicing thin ensures quick and even cooking. Pat dry before seasoning to achieve a golden sear.
Sun Dried Tomatoes (1 cup, oil-packed)
Oil-packed tomatoes add deep flavor and richness. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the oil for sautéing.
Heavy Cream (1 cup)
Creates a smooth, silky sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
Dairy-free option: Use full-fat coconut cream, well shaken.
Fresh Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
Adds bold flavor. Sauté briefly—fragrant but not browned.
Baby Spinach (3 cups)
Quick-cooking and nutrient-rich. It wilts down significantly, so pack it when measuring.
Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon)
Convenient herb blend. Alternatively, use ½ teaspoon dried oregano and ½ teaspoon dried basil.
Chicken Broth (½ cup)
Adds depth and helps deglaze the pan. Use low-sodium for better control of salt levels.
Effortless Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare Your Ingredients
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Slice chicken into 1-inch strips against the grain.
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Pat dry and season with 1 teaspoon salt and black pepper.
Tip: Let chicken sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before cooking for better browning.
Cooking Process
1. Sear the Chicken
Heat the reserved sun dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove from pan and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic
Lower heat to medium. Add garlic to the same pan and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Deglaze the Pan
Pour in chicken broth and scrape up browned bits from the bottom.
4. Build the Sauce
Stir in heavy cream and sun dried tomatoes. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Return the Chicken
Add chicken back to the skillet. Simmer for about 5 minutes until fully cooked.
6. Add Spinach
Add spinach in batches. Cover the skillet for 2 minutes until wilted. Stir gently to combine.
Avoid Common Pitfalls
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Boiling the Cream: Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer to prevent separation.
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Crowding the Pan: Sear chicken in batches if necessary.
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Using Cold Cream: Let cream sit at room temperature briefly before adding.
Creative Variations & Swaps
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Protein Options: Substitute turkey cutlets or firm white fish (adjust cooking time accordingly).
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Vegetarian Version: Use chickpeas and sautéed mushrooms instead of chicken.
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Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice.
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Add More Vegetables: Zucchini ribbons or artichoke hearts blend beautifully into the sauce.
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Add Heat: Sprinkle red pepper flakes to taste.
Storing & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze chicken and sauce (without spinach) for up to 1 month. Add fresh spinach when reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently in a covered skillet over low heat. Add small splashes of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dry-packed sun dried tomatoes?
Yes. Rehydrate them in hot water for 10 minutes, then drain. Add 1 teaspoon olive oil to maintain richness.
Why did my sauce separate?
High heat can cause dairy to split. Keep the simmer low and steady.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes. Thaw completely and squeeze out excess moisture before adding.
How spicy is this dish?
It is mild by default. Add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Best pasta pairing?
Short pasta shapes like penne or farfalle hold the sauce well. Cook pasta separately and toss with the chicken just before serving.
Can I prep ahead?
Absolutely. Slice chicken, mince garlic, and measure ingredients in advance. Store separately in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
The Final Stir
This creamy sun dried tomato chicken skillet proves that impressive meals don’t require complicated techniques. With bold flavors, a velvety sauce, and one-pan simplicity, it’s a dependable go-to for busy nights or special occasions. One bite of tender chicken coated in that rich, garlicky sauce, and you’ll understand why this recipe quickly becomes a favorite.
Grab your skillet and enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal that feels both effortless and elegant.
