Chicken cutlets are a staple in many kitchens due to their versatility and quick cooking time. When paired with a rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce, they become an irresistible dish that is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. This recipe combines juicy, golden-brown chicken cutlets with a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce infused with the deep umami flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. Let’s explore the ingredients, step-by-step preparation, and tips to perfect this mouthwatering dish.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
- Rich and Creamy: The luscious sauce elevates the flavor profile of the chicken.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes, the richness of heavy cream, and the slight kick from garlic create a harmonious taste.
- Versatile: Can be served with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Cutlets:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Cutlets
- Start by slicing the chicken breasts horizontally to create four thin cutlets.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Dredge the chicken lightly in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken cutlets and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
3. Make the Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to deglaze the pan.
- Add the heavy cream, red pepper flakes, oregano, and basil, stirring well to combine.
- Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked chicken cutlets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them.
- Let them simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some options:
- Pasta: Serve over fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: The rich sauce complements creamy mashed potatoes perfectly.
- Rice: A side of jasmine or basmati rice helps balance the flavors.
- Crusty Bread: Use bread to scoop up every bit of the delicious sauce.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Cutlets
- Use Thin Cutlets: This ensures even cooking and prevents dry chicken.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to get a nice golden crust.
- Deglaze Properly: Scrape up any browned bits from the skillet for extra flavor in the sauce.
- Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of chicken broth.
Variations and Additions
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add a rich umami depth to the sauce.
- Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach at the end for added nutrition.
- Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest brightens up the dish.
- White Wine: Substitute half of the chicken broth with white wine for extra flavor complexity.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
- Freezing: While the chicken can be frozen, the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing, so it's best enjoyed fresh.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Cutlets with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to make at home. Its rich, creamy, and slightly tangy flavor profile makes it an instant favorite. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a delightful meal bursting with flavor!
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