Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
Feel free to substitute the sun-dried tomatoes with cherry tomatoes for a fresher taste, or use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version. Cooking, after all, should be as flexible as your imagination!
Instructions
- Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. My mum always taught me that seasoning is key to coaxing out the natural flavors of the meat.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the minced garlic, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant — just like the aroma that would waft through our cottage kitchen.
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan. This step is crucial for capturing all those delicious browned bits that hold so much flavor.
- Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, thickening slightly.
- Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the sauce. Cover and let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Finish by sprinkling fresh basil over the top and adding red pepper flakes for an optional touch of warmth.
This one-pot wonder is not only easy to prepare, but it also saves on washing up — a blessing, especially when you’ve got a house full of guests!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International