Creamy Garlic Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Easy Skillet Dinner Idea

Creamy Garlic Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a one-skillet dish packed with bold flavor and a rich, creamy texture. Tender chicken is simmered in a garlic cream sauce and accented with tangy sun-dried tomatoes for perfect balance.

Quick enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests, it pairs well with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Made from simple pantry staples, this meal delivers deep flavor without extra fuss.

The creamy sauce coats the seared chicken beautifully, and with just a handful of ingredients, you can have a comforting dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken Dinner

Creamy Garlic Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a quick, satisfying meal that strikes the perfect balance between comfort and ease. The garlic cream sauce is rich yet simple, using ingredients you likely have on hand, while sun-dried tomatoes add just the right pop of flavor.

With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s ideal for busy nights or casual entertaining. The recipe is flexible, scalable, and sure to become a repeat favorite.

• One-skillet meal with easy cleanup
• Ready in 30 minutes
• Creamy garlic sauce with bold, savory flavor
• Sun-dried tomatoes add tangy contrast
• Perfect for meal prep or family dinners

Creamy Garlic Chicken Ingredients List

To make this Creamy Garlic Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, you’ll need a handful of flavorful ingredients that work together in harmony. The ingredient list is straightforward and pantry-friendly, but exact measurements ensure consistent, delicious results.

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), patted dry and cut into even pieces
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil for searing the chicken
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter for sautéing garlic and building the sauce
• 6 garlic cloves, minced for intense aroma and flavor
• ¾ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped and drained (packed in oil or dry-packed and rehydrated)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth for deglazing and flavor depth
• 1½ cups heavy cream to create a thick and creamy texture
• ¾ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese for a salty, nutty finish
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or a mix of basil and oregano
• Optional: ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for subtle heat
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish and color

Each ingredient plays a role, chicken is your protein base, while the garlic and parmesan enrich the sauce. Sun-dried tomatoes bring contrast and color, making this dish visually appealing and layered in flavor.

Try pairing this with Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs for a richer twist.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

This recipe keeps everything in one skillet, which means more flavor and less cleanup. It starts with a sear and ends with a silky sauce that brings everything together. Each step builds flavor and texture for a balanced, crowd-pleasing result.

1. Season and Sear Chicken: Sprinkle chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken in batches, about 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic: Reduce heat slightly and add butter to the same skillet. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, don’t let it brown.
3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and deglaze the pan with chicken broth. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate into the sauce.
4. Stir in Cream and Cheese: Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens.
5. Return Chicken and Simmer: Nestle chicken back into the pan. Spoon sauce over top, cover, and let simmer another 5 minutes until everything is well coated and heated through. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Serve this alongside Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice for a flavor-packed dinner combo.

What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a flexible main course that works with many sides, depending on your mood or dietary goals. The creamy sauce pairs best with sides that soak it up or offer contrast.

• Mashed Potatoes: A classic choice that complements the sauce’s richness
• Pasta: Linguine or fettuccine are ideal, tossed lightly with olive oil or butter
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus balance the richness
• Crusty Bread: Use it to mop up every drop of the garlic cream sauce
• Cauliflower Rice: Great low-carb alternative that absorbs flavor well
• Simple Salad: A mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness

You can also turn leftovers into sandwiches or wraps with spinach and extra parmesan, creating a second meal without more cooking.

Try it with a fresh side like One Pan Chicken and Rice Bake for a double-duty dinner.

Easy Variations for Creamy Garlic Chicken

This recipe invites creativity, allowing you to tailor it based on ingredients, dietary needs, or cravings. Here are quick variations that keep things interesting while sticking to the creamy garlic chicken base.

• Use Chicken Thighs: Adds moisture and flavor, ideal if you want richer texture
• Add Spinach or Kale: Stir into the sauce at the end for color and nutrition
• Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for gentle heat
• Swap for Coconut Milk: A dairy-free alternative that still delivers creaminess
• Add Mushrooms: Sauté with garlic for earthiness and umami boost

You can also toss in roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean feel, or serve over polenta for a rustic twist.

Looking for comfort food that still feels gourmet? Try Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of Creamy Garlic Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes store beautifully and taste even better the next day. Follow these simple tips to keep texture and flavor intact.

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheat Gently: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce
• Microwave Option: Use 50% power and stir halfway through to prevent curdling
• Avoid Freezing: Dairy-based sauces tend to separate after thawing

For meal prep, portion with rice or vegetables in containers for an easy lunch option.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Chicken

A few smart techniques can take this dish from good to unforgettable. These tips ensure consistent texture and flavor every time you cook.

• Sear in Batches: Crowding the pan steams the chicken instead of browning it
• Use Fresh Garlic: Powder won’t give the same intensity or aroma
• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese may not melt smoothly
• Deglaze the Pan: Those browned bits hold huge flavor, don’t skip this
• Let It Rest: Allow chicken to sit a few minutes before slicing for juicier bites

You can also finish with a drizzle of lemon juice to cut the richness or top with extra herbs for color and aroma.

Mistakes to Avoid When Making Creamy Garlic Chicken

Even easy recipes can trip you up without the right attention. Avoid these common pitfalls to keep your creamy garlic chicken smooth, flavorful, and stress-free.

• Overcooking the Chicken: It turns dry and chewy, use a thermometer if needed
• Boiling the Cream: High heat causes separation and grainy texture
• Using Low-Quality Parmesan: Freshly grated makes a difference in both taste and melt
• Skipping the Sear: That golden crust adds flavor to both chicken and sauce
• Adding Cheese Too Early: Wait until the sauce simmers or it may clump

With a bit of patience and attention to heat levels, your sauce will stay silky, and your chicken juicy.

Conclusion: Save and Share This Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes delivers a balanced meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and fast to make. Whether it’s your first time or fiftieth, it’s one recipe that earns repeat status on any menu.

If you found it helpful, pin it to your favorite recipe board or share it with a friend who needs a reliable dinner idea tonight.

FAQs About Creamy Garlic Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

How can I make Creamy Garlic Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes dairy-free?

Swap heavy cream for full-fat canned coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan. The flavor will shift slightly but still be creamy and satisfying. Be sure to simmer gently to keep the sauce from separating. You can also add a little arrowroot slurry to help thicken it.

Can I substitute chicken thighs for breasts in Creamy Garlic Chicken?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs are an excellent choice. They stay juicy even with high heat and bring extra richness to the dish. Just adjust cooking time slightly, thighs may take 2–3 minutes longer to sear. They also tend to be more forgiving if overcooked.

What goes well with Creamy Garlic Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes?

Serve it with mashed potatoes, pasta, steamed vegetables, or rice. Garlic bread is a favorite for dipping into the sauce. For lighter fare, pair with a crisp green salad or cauliflower rice. The richness of the dish benefits from something fresh or starchy on the side.

How do I thicken Creamy Garlic Chicken sauce without cornstarch?

Let the sauce simmer uncovered to reduce naturally. The parmesan cheese also thickens the sauce as it melts. For a quicker method, mix 1 teaspoon flour into melted butter before adding the cream. This creates a roux that thickens while adding flavor.

Creamy Garlic Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Easy Skillet Dinner Idea

Author: Ellie Courses: Dinner