Creamy Sun-Dried-Tomato Chicken Cutlets
If you’re craving a dish that balances rich creaminess with the bright, tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, then this Creamy Sun-Dried-Tomato Chicken Cutlets recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that transforms ordinary chicken cutlets into a luscious dinner centerpiece. The creamy sauce, enhanced with garlic, Parmesan, and Italian herbs, coats each tender chicken piece perfectly, making every bite a delight. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family meal or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
This Creamy Sun-Dried-Tomato Chicken Cutlets recipe stands out because it combines a handful of everyday ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish that’s bursting with flavor. The sun-dried tomatoes bring a subtle sweetness and chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the silky cream sauce. Parmesan cheese adds that irresistible savory depth, while garlic and herbs provide an aromatic punch. Plus, this recipe uses chicken cutlets, which cook quickly and stay tender, making it a fantastic option for busy cooks who want a quick, satisfying meal.
Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides—think fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery pasta, or even a fresh green salad. If you love creamy chicken dishes, you might also enjoy trying the Creamy Mushroom Chicken recipe, which offers a different yet equally indulgent flavor profile.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken cutlets
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How To Make Creamy Sun-Dried-Tomato Chicken Cutlets
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets
Start by seasoning the chicken cutlets generously on both sides with salt, pepper, dried basil, and oregano. This simple seasoning layer will infuse the chicken with flavor and complement the richness of the sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken cutlets. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, careful not to burn it. Then add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir to combine. Let them cook together for about 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—these add incredible flavor to your sauce. Allow the cream to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 5: Combine Chicken with the Sauce
Return the cooked chicken cutlets to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Spoon some sauce over each cutlet and allow everything to simmer together for another 2-3 minutes. This lets the chicken soak up the flavors and keeps it moist.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and fresh herbal aroma. Serve the Creamy Sun-Dried-Tomato Chicken Cutlets immediately with your preferred side dishes.
Expert Tips
- For extra tenderness, pound the chicken cutlets lightly before cooking. This ensures even cooking and a juicy texture.
- Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for the best flavor and texture. If you only have dry ones, rehydrate them in warm water before chopping.
- Don’t skip the Parmesan cheese—it thickens the sauce and adds a savory umami punch.
- Keep the heat moderate when simmering the cream to prevent it from curdling.
- If you want a thicker sauce, stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water at the end and let it cook for another minute.
- Serve this dish with a side of pasta tossed in a simple Alfredo sauce recipe for a double creamy indulgence.
Variations and Customizations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic for a subtle heat that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in some fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms when you add the cream to increase the veggie content.
- Cheese Swap: Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or use a mild mozzarella for a gooey twist.
- Herb Freshness: Replace dried herbs with fresh basil and oregano if you have them on hand; add them at the end to maintain their bright flavors.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep the sauce rich and creamy.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Sun-Dried-Tomato Chicken Cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid high heat to keep the chicken tender and the sauce smooth.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of cutlets?
Absolutely! If using chicken breasts, slice them horizontally to create thin cutlets or pound them to an even thickness for quick and even cooking.
Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary for this recipe?
Sun-dried tomatoes are a key ingredient because they add a concentrated, tangy sweetness that balances the creamy sauce. However, you can substitute with roasted red peppers for a milder, sweeter flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance, then combine and heat them just before serving. This helps retain the sauce’s creaminess and the chicken’s texture.
What sides go well with Creamy Sun-Dried-Tomato Chicken Cutlets?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a light pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs. A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette also balances the richness perfectly.
Conclusion
Creamy Sun-Dried-Tomato Chicken Cutlets are a flavorful, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare yet feels special enough for guests or a cozy night in. The luscious cream sauce, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and tender chicken create a harmonious combination that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish proves that impressive dinners don’t have to be complicated. Give it a try tonight and savor every creamy, savory bite!
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Creamy Sun-Dried-Tomato Chicken Cutlets
Ingredients
- 4 chicken cutlets
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken cutlets generously on both sides with salt, pepper, dried basil, and oregano.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to scrape up browned bits from the pan. Let the cream simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet, nestle them into the sauce, spoon sauce over each cutlet, and simmer together for 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately.
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Plate
Notes
- For extra tenderness, pound the chicken cutlets lightly before cooking.
- Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for best flavor; rehydrate dry ones if needed.
- Keep heat moderate when simmering cream to prevent curdling.