When it comes to clean eating, simplicity is key. We all know how overwhelming it can be to sift through endless recipes, trying to find something that is both delicious and nutritious. Enter this Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken recipe, which not only delivers on flavor but also makes clean eating a breeze. With a handful of wholesome ingredients, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option that keeps you on track with your healthy eating goals. Let me show you how to whip up this delightful dish that will leave your taste buds singing and your body nourished.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe truly embodies everything I love about clean eating. It’s packed with lean protein from chicken breasts, rich in flavor from sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy goodness from coconut milk. The combination of these ingredients not only satisfies your hunger but also fuels your body with wholesome nutrients. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. The flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a dish that feels indulgent while still being healthy.

What We’re Using

2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing and adding healthy fats.
4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts – lean protein that cooks quickly.
1 medium yellow onion – sliced into thin strips for sweetness and depth.
3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes – roughly chopped (make sure to avoid oil-packed varieties).
2 cloves garlic – minced for that aromatic flavor.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs for that classic Italian touch.
1 1/2 cups light coconut milk – for a creamy texture that’s dairy-free.
1 cup chicken broth – to enhance the savory flavors.
1/4 cup fresh basil – roughly chopped for a fresh finish.

Must-Have Equipment

Large skillet – for sautéing the chicken and simmering the sauce.
Cutting board – to slice your onions and chop the sun-dried tomatoes.
Knife – a sharp one to make quick work of your ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate ingredient measurements.

Build This Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Makes Clean Eating Simple Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and chopping the yellow onion and sun-dried tomatoes. Mince the garlic and set everything aside. This mise en place will make the cooking process seamless.

Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil

In a large skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up, ensuring it’s hot enough to sauté the onions.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

Add the sliced yellow onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions are translucent and fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Chicken

Next, add the 4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts to the skillet. Season them with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through.

Step 5: Incorporate the Garlic and Tomatoes

Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant.

Step 6: Pour in Coconut Milk and Chicken Broth

Pour in the 1 1/2 cups of light coconut milk and 1 cup of chicken broth. Stir to combine, making sure to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. This will add extra flavor to your dish.

Step 7: Season and Simmer

Add the 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the sauce thicken slightly.

Step 8: Finish with Fresh Basil

Finally, stir in the 1/4 cup of fresh basil. Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This will enhance the aroma and flavor of the basil.

Season-by-Season Upgrades

Spring: Add asparagus or peas for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Summer: Toss in fresh zucchini or bell peppers for added crunch.
Fall: Incorporate roasted butternut squash for a sweet, nutty flavor.
Winter: Add kale or spinach for a hearty boost of nutrition.

Errors to Dodge

Using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes can make the dish too oily. Stick with dry-packed for the best results.
Overcooking the chicken can lead to a dry texture. Check for doneness and remove from heat promptly.
Not allowing the sauce to simmer long enough can result in a lack of flavor. Be patient; it’s worth it!
Skipping the fresh basil can take away from the overall freshness of the dish. Don’t omit it!

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

This Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Makes Clean Eating Simple can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to make it ahead of time, consider preparing the chicken and sauce separately, then combining them just before serving. This dish also freezes well. To freeze, allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove until warmed through.

Serve & Enjoy

Now that you’ve created this scrumptious Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken, it’s time to dig in! Serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa or alongside a vibrant salad to make it a well-rounded meal. The creamy sauce, bursting with flavors from the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, is sure to impress your family and friends. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a celebration of clean eating, making it easier than ever to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.

This Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Makes Clean Eating Simple is not just a meal; it’s a way to enjoy nourishing ingredients in a delightful combination that everyone will love. So, let’s embrace clean eating together—one delicious recipe at a time!