Creamy Tomato Garlic Chicken

Name: Creamy Tomato Garlic Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Food

When I first made Creamy Tomato Garlic Chicken, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together so beautifully. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes with garlic creates a rich and aromatic sauce that drenches the tender chicken perfectly. I love how the creaminess balances the acidity of the tomatoes, making every bite incredibly satisfying. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that I often whip up for weeknight dinners but feel fancy enough to serve at dinner parties too. Trust me, you’re going to want to make this again and again!

Created by

Zadie Whitmore

Last updated on 2026-02-16T01:13:35.931Z

Cooking Creamy Tomato Garlic Chicken was a delightful experience! I remember experimenting with various ingredients, and the vibrant combination of sun-dried tomatoes and garlic really stole the show. The dish was not only simple to prepare but also introduced a gourmet element that made me feel accomplished.

One tip that transformed my experience was letting the chicken marinate briefly in Italian herbs before cooking. This small step enhanced the flavor significantly, creating a succulent and aromatic dish. I'm excited to share this meal that has quickly become a favorite!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and savory sauce that envelops the chicken
Perfectly balanced flavors of creamy and tangy
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

The Importance of Seasoning

Seasoning the chicken is a crucial step in ensuring that each bite is flavorful. As the chicken breasts cook, the salt enhances their natural juices while the Italian seasoning brings warmth and depth. Don't rush this process; take your time to ensure an even coating of salt and seasoning. After cooking, check for doneness with a meat thermometer—aim for 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part. If the chicken is slightly under, simply return it to the heat for a couple more minutes until fully cooked.

If you prefer, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time. A simple mix of olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs can infuse the meat with even more flavor. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. This step will yield tender, flavorful chicken that melds beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the creamy garlic sauce. When you add the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet, be mindful of the heat; if it’s too high, the garlic can burn and impart a bitter taste. Look for the garlic to turn lightly golden and fragrant, which should take about 2 minutes. This flavor base is key to the overall dish, as it sets the tone for the creamy sauce that follows.

Using heavy cream is essential for achieving that luxurious mouthfeel. If you need a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half, but note that it may result in a less rich sauce. To thicken the sauce further, you can also mix in a cornstarch slurry or a bit of grated Parmesan cheese towards the end to enhance the taste profile and texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Creamy Tomato Garlic Chicken can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just ensure that you allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to maintain the sauce's consistency.

If you want to freeze this dish, portion it out after cooking and freeze it in freezer-safe containers. It can last for up to three months. When reheating from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm gently on the stove, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating. This makes for a convenient meal option for busy nights while retaining that fresh homemade flavor.

Ingredients

Chicken and Sauce

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, and add the chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Then pour in the heavy cream and stir well, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it evenly with the creamy sauce. Allow everything to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

This dish goes beautifully with pasta or a side salad!

Pro Tips

For extra depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken for an hour in your favorite herbs. Adding some grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce can also enhance the richness!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider serving this dish over a bed of cooked pasta, such as fettuccine or orzo. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, creating an indulgent meal that feels both luxurious and comforting. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce, ensuring no flavors go to waste.

For a light side, a fresh green salad with a vinaigrette complements the creamy chicken well. The acidity of the dressing balances the richness of the sauce, providing a satisfying contrast. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or even avocado for added freshness and texture.

Variations to Try

You can easily swap in different proteins for this recipe. Try using thinly sliced pork or even shrimp for a delightful variation. Just make sure to adjust cooking times, as shrimp will cook in just a few minutes, while pork may need additional time to ensure it’s cooked through.

In terms of flavor, you can add more vegetables to the sauce. Spinach or kale would be excellent additions, providing not only nutrition but also a beautiful color contrast. Simply toss the greens into the sauce towards the end of cooking until wilted—this will enhance the dish while keeping it vibrant.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture to the dish.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a lighter cream, but the sauce will be less rich.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken separately, then combine them when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve this with?

It's delicious with pasta, rice, or a simple side salad. Garlic bread is also a great option!