Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe

Indulge in the delectable flavors of Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken – a dish that effortlessly balances comfort and elegance in under thirty minutes. This skillet creation is a delightful harmony of tender chicken, rich sun-dried tomatoes, and pillowy ravioli, all enveloped in a luxurious Parmesan cream sauce that will leave your taste buds singing with joy.

When this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken graces the dinner table, it’s like an instant family celebration. Originally crafted as a Sunday dinner favorite, it has quickly become a staple for birthdays and special gatherings. The bold tang of sun-dried tomatoes perfectly complements the velvety cream sauce, elevating every bite to a restaurant-quality experience.

For those seeking versatility, feel free to customize this dish to your liking. Whether you opt for a vegetarian twist with spinach ravioli or a heartier version with Italian sausage, the possibilities are endless. And if you’re looking to make it ahead, rest assured that leftovers can be stored for up to three days – just remember to reheat gently for that same creamy consistency. So gather your loved ones, savor each flavorful bite, and let Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and easy: Ready in under thirty minutes, perfect for busy weeknights
• Rich and flavorful: Creamy Parmesan sauce with tangy sun-dried tomatoes and fragrant herbs
• Versatile: Can be customized with different proteins like turkey or sausage, and various ravioli options for a twist
• Leftovers-friendly: Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days, easy to reheat while maintaining creamy consistency

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under thirty minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something cozy and special without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family Favorite: A guaranteed hit with the family, this dish has the power to turn regular dinners into memorable occasions. It’s perfect for birthdays and celebrations.
• Restaurant-Quality Flavor: The bold tang of sun-dried tomatoes combined with the creamy Parmesan sauce creates a luxurious taste that feels like a gourmet restaurant meal.
• Versatile and Adaptable: This recipe is flexible – you can replace the chicken with turkey or Italian sausage, use different types of ravioli, or switch sun-dried tomatoes for roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.
• Comforting and Modern Twist: Combining Italian-American flavors with convenience, this dish embodies comfort and resourcefulness with a modern twist, making it a perfect blend of tradition and innovation.

Ingredients for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe

Ravioli

• 450 g frozen ravioli

Poultry

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Oils and Fats

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Seasonings

• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes, adjustable

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 15 g fresh parsley, chopped
• 6 green onions, chopped
• 80 g sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

Sauce Components

• 240 ml heavy cream
• 120 ml chicken broth
• 100 g Parmesan cheese, grated, plus extra for serving

Pro Tips for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe

For a flavorful twist, try using boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. They offer extra tenderness and depth of flavor to the dish.

To enhance the sun-dried tomato’s tangy flavor, consider adding semi-dried or oven-roasted cherry tomatoes along with the garlic. This will add a sweet-tart note that complements the dish beautifully.

When reheating leftovers, do so gently on low heat to maintain the creamy consistency of the sauce. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed to help bring back the original texture.

Feel free to customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes or omitting them altogether for a milder taste profile. Personalize the dish to suit your preference.

How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ravioli

Boil frozen ravioli in a large pot of salted water following package instructions. Save 120 ml of pasta water before draining. Keep ravioli aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until chicken is golden and cooked through, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Aromatics and Vegetables

Combine minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, green onions, and parsley in the skillet. Cook and stir for 2 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Step 4: Deglaze and Prepare the Sauce

Add heavy cream and chicken broth to the pot. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 2–3 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 5: Combine Ravioli and Finish

Combine cooked ravioli and grated Parmesan in the pan. Gently toss to coat pasta evenly with sauce. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with more Parmesan.

Storage Tips

After preparing the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken dish, allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing them. Transfer the cooled leftovers to airtight containers and refrigerate them for up to three days for optimal freshness. When reheating, do so gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to maintain the creamy consistency. Stir frequently during reheating to ensure the dish retains its delicious flavors and textures. It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as dairy sauces like the one in this recipe can separate during thawing.

To enhance this dish or adapt it to your preferences, consider using alternative proteins like turkey or Italian sausage in place of chicken. You can also experiment with different types of ravioli, such as spinach or mushroom, for a vegetarian twist. If sun-dried tomatoes are not to your liking, roasted red peppers can be a flavorful substitute, although they will impart a milder taste. For a lighter sauce, you can use half and half instead of heavy cream, although the sauce’s texture may be thinner. Serve this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken dish alongside side dishes like lemony roasted broccoli or Caesar salad for a balanced meal. Additionally, it can be part of a larger Italian spread with antipasti and wine, making it a versatile and delicious option for various occasions.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian twist, consider swapping the chicken with Italian sausage or turkey for a different protein option. Additionally, spinach or mushroom ravioli can be used as a flavorful substitute for a meatless variation.

If sun-dried tomatoes aren’t to your liking, try roasted red peppers for a milder flavor profile. They will offer a different taste but still complement the creaminess of the dish.

To make the recipe lighter, you can use half and half instead of heavy cream, but note that the sauce may be thinner in consistency. Adjust the amount based on your preference for a creamier or lighter sauce.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try plating the creamy sun-dried tomato chicken ravioli in individual mini cast-iron skillets for a rustic and charming presentation. Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top for an extra pop of color and flavor. Serve alongside a crisp arugula salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish.

Another fun idea is to serve the creamy sun-dried tomato chicken ravioli in small hollowed-out bread bowls for a cozy and comforting meal. The bread not only acts as a vessel for the delicious sauce but also adds a crunchy texture to each bite. Don’t forget to garnish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat and an extra drizzle of olive oil for a luxurious finish. Pair with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to complement the flavors of the dish.

FAQs for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen in this recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh ravioli works beautifully in this dish. Just boil until al dente, as it cooks faster than frozen.

Can I substitute sun-dried tomatoes with other ingredients?

Semi-dried or oven-roasted cherry tomatoes add a similar sweet-tart note. Add them with the garlic for best results.

What can I use instead of boneless, skinless chicken breasts?

Boneless chicken thighs deliver extra tenderness and flavor, or try turkey cutlets as an alternative.

How can I reheat leftovers of this creamy sun-dried tomato chicken dish?

The creamy sauce thickens once cooled. Reheat gently on low, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.

Conclusion

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken is truly a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. The blend of tender chicken, rich sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy Parmesan sauce creates a meal that is both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit with your loved ones.

Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own by incorporating different ingredients or making small tweaks to suit your preferences. From swapping out the protein to experimenting with different types of ravioli, there are plenty of ways to customize this dish to your liking. Remember, cooking is all about creativity and enjoyment, so feel free to get creative in the kitchen and have fun with this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken recipe.