-Oregano Chicken Bowl with Creamy Hummus Recipe

If you are craving a rich, comforting dish that brings bold flavors and creamy indulgence together, then you have to try this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken. This recipe combines tender, perfectly seared chicken with a luscious sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Parmesan, and cream, producing a beautiful harmony of tangy, savory, and smoky notes. It is a simple yet impressive meal that never fails to impress, whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Trust me, once you’ve tasted the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things straightforward with essential ingredients that each add their own magic to the dish. From the smoky paprika seasoning on the chicken to the rich cream and savory Parmesan in the sauce, every component enhances texture, color, or flavor to create that unforgettable creamy sun-dried tomato goodness.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Choose what you prefer; thighs are juicier, breasts are leaner, both absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Basic seasonings to bring out the natural flavors of the chicken perfectly.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a gentle smoky depth that complements the tomatoes wonderfully.
• Olive oil: For searing the chicken to golden perfection while adding richness.
• Sun-dried tomatoes (preferably in oil): This is the star that provides tangy sweetness and a vibrant color to the sauce.
• Small onion, finely diced: Softens into the sauce giving it a subtle sweetness and texture.
• Garlic cloves, minced: Garlic’s warm, aromatic bite elevates the sauce to the next level.
• Heavy cream: Creates the signature creamy base of the dish, making it irresistible.
• Chicken broth: Balances the creaminess while adding depth to the sauce.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce adding umami richness and a touch of saltiness.
• Italian seasoning: Brings herby freshness that brightens the sauce.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick of heat if you like a little spice.
• Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds color and a fresh herbal note that finishes the dish beautifully.

How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken pieces generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and smoked paprika. These simple spices kick off the layers of flavor. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on each side — about 4 to 5 minutes per side. This ensures a beautifully caramelized exterior while locking in juiciness. Once cooked through, remove the chicken and set it aside to make room for the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, now imbued with lovely browned bits from searing the chicken, add the finely diced onion. Cook it gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent, which will build a sweet, mellow base for the sauce. Then toss in minced garlic and cook just for about 30 seconds until fragrant — you want garlic’s essence without any bitterness.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce

Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sprinkle with Italian seasoning. Let them mingle in the pan for a minute, releasing their tangy, vibrant flavors. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Now add the grated Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes if using, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of your spoon. This rich, velvety sauce is where the magic truly happens.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Return your perfectly seared chicken back into the skillet, nestling each piece into the creamy sauce. Spoon some sauce over each piece and simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes so all those flavors can marry beautifully. By now, the chicken is tender and soaked with the aromatic, tangy richness of the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Almost ready to serve!

How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top adds a burst of green color and fresh herbaceous flavor to this dish. It lightens the richness slightly and makes it look instantly more inviting and vibrant on the plate.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken pairs wonderfully with simple cooked pasta, fluffy rice, or buttery mashed potatoes. Each option provides a neutral canvas for the sauce to shine and helps soak up every last delicious drop. Consider a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables to balance the creaminess with some fresh crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve the chicken sliced over a bed of pasta or creamy polenta, topped generously with the sauce and sprinkled parsley. Alternatively, scoop portions into individual bowls with a side of garlic bread to make it feel cozy and inviting. No matter how you plate it, the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce steals the spotlight every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, place leftover Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to meld even more overnight, so leftovers can be tastier than the first serving!

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to prep meals ahead. Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken and sauce slowly over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickened too much in the fridge. This will restore its silky texture and keep the chicken juicy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually my favorite for this recipe because they stay super moist and tender, soaking up that creamy sun-dried tomato sauce beautifully.

Do I have to use heavy cream or can I substitute?

Heavy cream is ideal for that rich, velvety sauce texture. You could try half-and-half or a mix of cream and milk for a lighter version, but the sauce won’t be quite as thick or indulgent.

Can I use dry sun-dried tomatoes instead of oil-packed?

Yes, but make sure to rehydrate dry sun-dried tomatoes in hot water for 10-15 minutes before chopping and adding them. Oil-packed ones add extra richness directly into the sauce.

Is this recipe spicy?

Only if you add the optional crushed red pepper flakes. They provide a subtle kick, but you can easily skip them if you prefer mild flavors.

How long does it take to make this dish?

This recipe usually takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect option for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special.

Final Thoughts

If you want a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, bursting with creamy, tangy, and savory goodness, you simply must try this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken. It’s straightforward to prepare, endlessly satisfying, and always makes everyone at the table smile. Once you experience those tender chicken pieces bathed in luscious sauce, you’ll find yourself turning to this recipe time and time again. Give it a go — I promise it will become one of your cherished favorites too!