Skillet Sicilian Chicken: Creamy, Irresistible, and Classic

Skillet Sicilian Chicken: An Irresistible Mediterranean Classic

When it comes to hearty and sophisticated dinners that deliver bold flavor with minimal fuss, skillet Sicilian chicken is a classic that never disappoints. Brought to life with the richness of heavy cream, the tang of sun-dried tomatoes, and the herbaceous notes of thyme and basil, this recipe offers the best of Mediterranean cooking in a single skillet. Whether you’re entertaining friends or simply want an unforgettable weeknight meal, this creamy chicken dish is sure to satisfy and impress.

Contents

• Introduction to Skillet Sicilian Chicken
• Ingredients
• Equipment Checklist
• Step-By-Step Directions
• Pro Tips and Variations
• Serving Suggestions
• Nutrition Information
• Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction to Skillet Sicilian Chicken

This beloved Italian-inspired chicken dish has been shared widely thanks to its simple preparation and irresistibly creamy sauce. Often called “Marry Me Chicken” for its crowd-pleasing, proposal-worthy flavor, it’s a recipe that brings together the fundamental elements of Sicilian home cooking — honest ingredients, abundant herbs, and a satisfyingly rich finish. With golden crispy chicken nestled in a sauce of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan, each bite is a celebration of both comfort and elegance.

Ingredients: What You’ll Need

To prepare authentic skillet Sicilian chicken, gather the following ingredients. Fresh, quality items make all the difference for flavor and texture:

• 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil (divided)
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (8 oz. each)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 2 garlic cloves (finely chopped)
• 1 Tbsp. fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
• 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• Torn fresh basil (for serving)

Essential Equipment

This recipe is refreshingly straightforward and only requires basic kitchen equipment:

• Large ovenproof skillet or sauté pan (12-inch is ideal)
• Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tong or spatula
• Oven mitts (if using a metal-handled skillet)
• Spoon for serving sauce

Step-By-Step Recipe Directions

Let’s walk through the process for perfectly cooked, flavorful skillet Sicilian chicken.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the chicken finishes cooking evenly in the oven.
2. Brown the chicken: In a large ovenproof skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high. Season the chicken on both sides with kosher salt and black pepper. Sear the chicken until it develops a deep golden color, approximately 5 minutes per side. Once browned, transfer the chicken breasts to a plate and set aside.
3. Build the flavor base: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil to the same skillet. Stir in finely chopped garlic, fresh thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, just until fragrant and the garlic is golden but not burnt.
4. Create the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any brown bits for extra flavor. Mix in the heavy cream and the grated Parmesan. Add a pinch of salt. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Return chicken to skillet: Nestle the chicken breasts into the sauce. Pour any juices from the resting plate back into the skillet for maximum flavor.
6. Bake the chicken: Transfer the entire skillet to your preheated oven. Bake until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced (internal temperature should reach 165°F/73°C), typically 10–12 minutes.
7. Finish and serve: Arrange the chicken on a serving platter or individual plates. Generously spoon the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce over each piece. Top with torn fresh basil for an aromatic, colorful finish.

Pro Tips and Variations

• For deeper flavor, try using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs instead of breasts. Adjust baking time as needed for thicker cuts.
• If you prefer a richer sauce, stir in an extra 2 tablespoons of Parmesan or replace cream with a mixture of cream cheese and milk.
• Add a generous handful of baby spinach or chopped artichoke hearts to the sauce for a boost of vegetables and texture.
• For a spicy kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a splash of Calabrian chili oil before baking.
• To make it dairy-free, swap the cream for coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Chopped olives or capers add a classic Sicilian briny flavor if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Skillet Sicilian chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some serving ideas to round out your meal:

• Crusty Italian bread or garlic knots, perfect for soaking up every bit of creamy sauce.
• Al dente pasta (like linguine or penne) tossed simply in olive oil and fresh herbs.
• Lemon-herb roasted potatoes or creamy polenta for a heartier option.
• Steamed or sautéed green beans, asparagus, or broccolini for vegetable balance.
• Simple arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut the richness.

For wine lovers, a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or a medium-bodied red like Chianti makes an excellent pairing.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Note: Values are estimates and will vary depending on exact ingredients and quantities used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! After baking, the chicken can be cooled, covered, and refrigerated for up to two days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to refresh the sauce’s texture.

What kind of chicken cut works best?

This recipe is designed for boneless, skinless chicken breasts but can also be adapted for chicken thighs. If using bone-in cuts, extend the baking time and check internal temperature for doneness.

Is there a substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

If sun-dried tomatoes are unavailable, roasted red peppers or chopped marinated artichokes provide similar tang and richness. However, sun-dried tomatoes add an iconic, sweet-tart depth.

How do I make the sauce creamier?

For an even creamier finish, whisk in a tablespoon of room-temperature cream cheese or a splash more of heavy cream just before serving.

Can I make it gluten-free?

This dish is naturally gluten-free as written. Always confirm store-bought broth and cheeses are certified gluten-free if you have dietary concerns.

What’s the secret to the best flavor?

• Always brown the chicken well — this caramelizes the meat and builds the signature rich sauce base.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan and real fresh herbs for bright, authentic Mediterranean flavor.
• Rest the chicken for 2–3 minutes before slicing to keep juices sealed in.

Why You’ll Love This Sicilian Chicken Recipe

• One-pan convenience: All steps—from searing to baking—happen in a single skillet, making cleanup simple.
• Versatile for all occasions: Elegant enough for special dinners, but quick and straightforward for busy weeknights.
• Irresistible Mediterranean flavors: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, and velvety sauce delivers layers of satisfying taste.
• Customizable: Adapt easily for dairy-free, gluten-free, or low-carb lifestyles without sacrificing flavor.

Join the Conversation

Have you tried this recipe? Share your experiences, photos, and twists in the comments below. Looking for more one-pan Italian favorites? Browse our collection for other creamy, savory skillet dinners that will become staples in your kitchen.

More Skillet Chicken Recipes to Try

• Creamy Tuscan Chicken: Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a parmesan-rich sauce come together for another Italian classic.
• Lemon Basil Chicken: Bright citrus notes and fresh herbs liven up a light, flavorful skillet meal.
• Chicken Marsala: Enjoy the earthy depth of mushrooms and Marsala wine in this Italian-American favorite.

Author

medha deb

 

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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