Hey there, food enthusiasts! If you’re craving a dish bursting with flavor and simple to whip up, you’re in for a treat. Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of sun-dried tomato chicken. This recipe is a perfect fusion of succulent poultry and the rich, tangy goodness of sun-dried tomatoes. Let’s embark on a culinary adventure together!
Why Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken?
Sun-dried tomatoes are like little nuggets of concentrated flavor. They boast a unique sweetness and intense tomato taste that adds depth to any dish. Incorporating them into your chicken recipe elevates the flavor profile to a whole new level, making every bite a mouthwatering experience.
Ingredients
- Chicken: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. They’re tender and soak up flavors beautifully.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: opt for high-quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil. They’re plump, moist, and bursting with flavor.
Preparation
Marinating the Chicken
Before diving into cooking, let’s infuse our chicken with flavor. Create a marinade using olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken generously and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Drying Tomatoes
If you’re using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess oil. This step prevents the dish from becoming too oily and ensures the tomatoes retain their rich flavor without overpowering the chicken.
Cooking Process
Searing Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and sear it until golden brown on both sides. This step locks in the juices, creating a tender and juicy chicken.
Tomato Infusion
Now, it’s time to introduce our star ingredient – sun-dried tomatoes! Add them to the skillet along with some chicken broth and let everything simmer together. The tomatoes will rehydrate slightly, releasing their luscious flavor into the sauce, creating a mouthwatering blend.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your sun-dried tomato chicken hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Pair it with your favorite side dishes like creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Health Benefits
Not only is this dish a flavor bomb, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Sun-dried tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants, which promote overall health and well-being. Paired with lean chicken, it’s a wholesome and satisfying meal option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sun-dried tomato chicken is a culinary masterpiece that’s both simple to prepare and incredibly delicious. With its rich flavors and nutritional benefits, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So, gather your ingredients and get cooking – your taste buds will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
While fresh tomatoes can be used, they won’t impart the same intense flavor as sun-dried tomato chicken. However, you can roast fresh tomatoes in the oven to concentrate their flavor before using them in the recipe.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian alternative. The sun-dried tomatoes will still add a burst of flavor to the dish.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover sun-dried tomato chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stove before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze sun-dried tomato chicken for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What other proteins can I use with sun-dried tomatoes?
Sun-dried tomatoes pair well with a variety of proteins, including shrimp, salmon, and pork. Feel free to experiment with different proteins to find your perfect flavor combination!
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Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 oz sun-dried tomatoes
- 3/4 cup water
- 2 lbs chicken thighs , (skin-on, boneless)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup half & half, or heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
- 1/2 tbsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, to garnish
- 1/2 tbsp salt
- 1/2 tbsp pepper
Instructions
- Place the sun-dried tomatoes and water in a blender or smoothie cup and process for 60-90 seconds, until it resembles tomato sauce.
- Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken in the skillet, skin side down. Cook for 5 minutes, until deep golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the chicken and fry for an additional 5 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium-low and remove the chicken from the skillet.
- To the same skillet, add the sun-dried tomato mixture. Cook for about 3-4 minutes. Add the cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir.
- Reduce the heat to low, so the sauce is simmering gently. Return the chicken to the skillet and cook it for an additional 10-15 minutes, until cooked through. Add a little water to the sauce, if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve.
Notes
Course: Chicken, Main CourseCuisine: American, Italian
Keyword: sun dried tomato chicken
Skill Level: Easy
Cost to Make: $$
Calories: 766