A rich and savory chicken bake that’s packed with the bold flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and a creamy, herbed sauce. Perfect for an easy, comforting dinner that feels gourmet without the fuss.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
3. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and oregano. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
6. Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
7. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top.
8. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 520 per serving
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g

Flavor Profile of Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Bake

The flavor of this dish is a wonderful balance of creamy, tangy, and savory. The sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of concentrated sweetness and a slightly tart undertone that perfectly complements the richness of the cream and cheese. The herbs and garlic infuse the sauce with aromatic depth, while the golden-seared chicken brings a hearty, satisfying taste to every bite.

Why Sun-Dried Tomatoes Are Essential

Sun-dried tomatoes are the star ingredient in this recipe, providing intense flavor without the moisture of fresh tomatoes. They deliver a chewy texture and a rich, sweet-tart note that elevates the creaminess of the sauce and prevents it from becoming too heavy or one-dimensional.

Choosing the Best Chicken for the Bake

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are used for their lean quality and quick cooking time. For the best results, look for evenly sized breasts to ensure even cooking. If you prefer darker meat, boneless thighs can also work and add even more richness to the final dish.

Importance of Searing the Chicken First

Searing the chicken before baking locks in moisture and builds a flavorful, golden crust. This crucial step ensures that the chicken remains juicy throughout the baking process and adds a savory depth to the overall dish.

Role of Cheese in the Recipe

Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses not only add a luxurious creaminess but also provide a slightly salty and nutty flavor that enhances the sauce. Mozzarella melts smoothly, while Parmesan gives a sharper, more robust finish to the taste.

How to Adjust the Creaminess

If you prefer a lighter version, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a mix of cream and milk. For an ultra-decadent meal, stick with heavy cream to achieve the richest and thickest sauce.

Using Fresh Herbs for Added Freshness

While dried basil and oregano are used for convenience and concentrated flavor, adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end brightens the dish and gives it a fresh, aromatic finish that balances the richness.

Best Side Dishes to Serve

This creamy chicken bake pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter meal, consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce will thicken as it cools, but it can easily be revived with a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating.

How to Reheat for Best Results

To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through. Stir gently to keep the sauce from separating and add a small amount of liquid if needed to restore the creamy consistency.

Can This Recipe Be Frozen

While it is possible to freeze Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Bake, cream-based sauces can sometimes separate when thawed. If freezing, allow the dish to cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Reheat gently, stirring well to recombine the sauce.

Possible Variations to Try

You can customize this recipe by adding spinach for extra greens, mushrooms for an earthy flavor, or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Each addition brings a new twist without losing the core deliciousness of the dish.

How to Make It Keto-Friendly

This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates and fits well into a keto diet. Ensure you check your sun-dried tomatoes for added sugars, and serve it over cauliflower rice or with roasted vegetables for a full keto meal.

Tips for Meal Prep

Prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to eat, simply combine and bake. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or to include in a meal prep rotation.

Choosing the Right Skillet

Using an oven-safe skillet simplifies the cooking process by allowing you to sear and bake in the same pan. Cast iron or stainless steel skillets are excellent choices for achieving a good sear and maintaining even heat during baking.

Enhancing the Sauce with Wine

For an even more sophisticated flavor, consider deglazing the pan with a splash of white wine after searing the chicken and before adding the cream. It will add a subtle acidity that brightens the dish.

Nutritional Benefits of the Ingredients

This meal provides a good amount of protein from the chicken and calcium from the cheese. Sun-dried tomatoes also offer a concentrated source of antioxidants like lycopene, making the dish not just delicious but also nutritious.

Why This Dish is Perfect for Entertaining

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Bake feels fancy enough for dinner parties but is easy enough to prepare without stress. Its crowd-pleasing flavors and beautiful presentation straight from the oven make it a guaranteed hit.

Making It Dairy-Free

If you need a dairy-free version, use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and opt for dairy-free cheeses. Keep in mind the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be rich and satisfying.

Conclusion

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Bake is a luxurious yet simple dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your own kitchen. Its rich, creamy sauce balanced by tangy sun-dried tomatoes, tender chicken, and fragrant herbs makes it a timeless dinner favorite. Whether you are serving family or impressing guests, this recipe offers comfort, elegance, and irresistible flavor in every bite.