Easy Skillet Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Thighs Recipe | Juicy & Creamy Mediterranean Dinner
Juicy, flavorful, and bursting with Mediterranean flair — these Irresistible Skillet Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Thighs are seared to perfection and simmered in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. A quick yet elegant dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Equipment
- Large skillet (cast iron or stainless steel)
- Tongs
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Cutting board & knife
Ingredients
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp flour (for dredging)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained and chopped)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly shredded)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional add-ins: ½ cup mushrooms, ¼ cup white wine, pinch of red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Season chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry. Season with salt, pepper, and dredge lightly in flour.
- Sear chicken: Heat olive oil in skillet over medium-high heat. Sear thighs for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: Add garlic and shallots to skillet. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Deglaze: Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits.
- Build sauce: Stir in cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan. Simmer until sauce thickens.
- Add greens: Toss in spinach and cook until wilted.
- Return chicken: Place chicken back into skillet. Spoon sauce over thighs and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Make-ahead: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3 days. Freeze sauce separately for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm gently on stovetop with a splash of broth; add fresh spinach after reheating.
- Common mistakes: Overcooking chicken (dry texture), using low-fat cream (sauce separates), skipping flour dredge (sauce won’t thicken).
- Variations: Add mushrooms for earthiness, swap thighs for chicken breasts, or make it spicy with chili flakes.
- Pairings: Serve with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. Complement with crisp white wine.