Introduction
If you’re searching for a delicious, creamy, and satisfying low-carb meal, then look no further than this Creamy Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes. This dish is packed with flavor, high in protein, and incredibly easy to make, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or even a fancy low-carb dinner party recipe.
This meal features tender, juicy chicken breasts in a creamy, cheesy, and garlicky sauce with the rich, tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a restaurant-quality dish that you can make in your own kitchen with minimal effort. Plus, it’s an excellent option for those following a low-carb, keto, or high-protein diet.
With only a handful of ingredients and one skillet, you can have a healthy, low-carb dinner ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re planning meal prep for the week or just need a hearty, comforting meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep.
✔ Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: A great option for those watching their carb intake.
✔ High in Protein: Helps keep you full and supports muscle growth.
✔ Rich & Creamy: A decadent, restaurant-quality sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep: Stores well, making it an ideal meal prep option.
✔ Great for Dinner Parties: A dish that looks fancy but is incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients
To make this Creamy Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, you’ll need a few simple pantry staples:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise (or 4 small breasts)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
For the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed preferred for richness)
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free version)
- ½ cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra depth)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (optional, for extra nutrients)
Step-by-Step Instructions
This dish is made in just a few simple steps, and everything comes together in one skillet for easy cleanup.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. - Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. (The internal temperature should reach 165°F / 75°C). Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Sauté the Garlic & Tomatoes:
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes. - Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in chicken broth (or white wine) and scrape the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes. - Add the Cream & Cheese:
Lower the heat to medium, stir in heavy cream, Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 3: Combine Everything
- Add the Chicken Back:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the top, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. - Add the Spinach (Optional):
Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted. - Final Touch:
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.
How to Serve This Dish
This creamy chicken with sun-dried tomatoes pairs beautifully with low-carb side dishes.
Best Low-Carb Side Dishes
- Cauliflower Mash – A creamy and buttery alternative to mashed potatoes.
- Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) – A light, fresh pasta substitute that soaks up the creamy sauce.
- Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus – A nutritious, simple side.
- Spaghetti Squash – A slightly sweet, low-carb pasta alternative.
For Non-Low-Carb Diets
- Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
- Pair with crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.
Meal Prep & Storage Tips
This easy low-carb meal prep for the week stores well and is perfect for batch cooking.
How to Store:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: The creamy sauce can be frozen, but may separate when reheated. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
How to Reheat:
- Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream.
- Avoid microwaving on high heat, as it can make the sauce separate.
Customization & Variations
This recipe is flexible and can be modified to suit different dietary needs.
Make It Dairy-Free
- Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.
- Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
Make It Spicy
- Add extra red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Stir in chopped jalapeños.
Use Different Proteins
- Swap chicken for salmon, shrimp, or turkey.
- Try it with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for a Low-Carb Diet
If you’re following a low-carb, keto, or high-protein diet, this dish is an excellent addition to your meal plan.
Nutritional Benefits
- Low-Carb & Low-Sugar: No processed sugars, only natural flavors.
- High-Protein: Keeps you full and supports muscle growth.
- Healthy Fats: From cream, olive oil, and sun-dried tomatoes for sustained energy.
Best Occasions to Serve This Dish
- Weeknight Dinners: A quick, satisfying meal.
- Meal Prep: Make it ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
- Dinner Parties: Impress guests with minimal effort.
- Date Night: A creamy, indulgent dish for two.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild kick from the red pepper flakes, but you can leave them out if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prep.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a must-try for anyone looking for a low-carb, high-protein dinner that is easy to make.
It’s a perfect weeknight meal, meal prep option, or dinner party dish. Try it tonight and enjoy a creamy, flavorful meal without the carbs!
