1Arrange a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 375°F.
2In a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of oil.
3Generously season chicken with salt and black pepper.
4Cook the chicken, turning halfway through, until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side.
5Transfer the chicken to a plate.
6In the same skillet over medium heat, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil.
7Stir in garlic, thyme, and red pepper flakes.
8Cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
9Stir in broth, tomatoes, cream, and Parmesan.
10Season with salt.
11Bring the mixture to a simmer.
12Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet.
13Transfer the skillet to the oven.
14Bake chicken until cooked through and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165°F, 10 to 12 minutes.
15Arrange chicken on a platter.
16Spoon sauce over the chicken.
17Top with basil.
Ingredients
3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 Tbsp. fresh thyme leaves
1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
0.75 cup low-sodium chicken broth
0.5 cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes
0.5 cup heavy cream
0.25 cup finely grated Parmesan
Torn fresh basil, for serving
Equipment
large ovenproof skilletinstant-read thermometerplatter
Tips
Searing the chicken before baking creates a golden-brown crust and keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
The rendered chicken fat from searing forms the base of the sauce, adding depth.
Toasting garlic, fresh thyme, and red pepper flakes brings out their fragrance and color.
Let the sauce reduce slightly to meld and thicken before adding the chicken back.
For a thicker sauce to serve over pasta, consider using a 1:1 ratio of heavy cream to broth and doubling the Parmesan, or adding a roux (olive oil and flour) to thicken the sauce.
You can substitute sun-dried tomato pesto for whole sun-dried tomatoes.
If using chicken cutlets, you can skip the baking phase to make the recipe quicker.
If the sauce is too thick upon reheating, add a splash of water to thin it out.