Today, you will learn how to make a delectable chicken dish infused with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, all prepared effortlessly in a pressure cooker. This recipe guarantees tender and juicy chicken, bathed in a flavorful sauce bursting with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. With the help of a pressure cooker, you can enjoy this mouthwatering dish in no time at all. So, grab your apron and get ready to indulge in the irresistible flavors of this Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe!
Ingredients
Chicken breasts
To make this delicious chicken with sun-dried tomatoes recipe in a pressure cooker, you will need some boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This lean and versatile cut of meat will work perfectly with the other flavors in the dish.
Sun-dried tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes bring a burst of intense flavor to this recipe. You can use store-bought sun-dried tomatoes or make your own by drying fresh tomatoes in the sun or oven. These concentrated tomatoes add a hint of sweetness and a delightful tang to the dish.
Garlic
Garlic is an essential ingredient in many savory dishes, and this chicken with sun-dried tomatoes is no exception. Chopping fresh garlic cloves will infuse the dish with a robust and aromatic flavor.
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Preparation
Preparing the chicken
Before you start cooking, it’s important to properly prepare the chicken. Start by ensuring the chicken breasts are cleaned and trimmed of any excess fat or skin. Pat them dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning stick better.
Preparing the sun-dried tomatoes
If you’re using store-bought sun-dried tomatoes, you can skip this step. However, if you prefer homemade sun-dried tomatoes, here’s how to prepare them. First, slice the tomatoes into thin strips or chop them into smaller pieces, depending on your preference.
Chopping the garlic
Take a few fresh garlic cloves and mince them finely. Alternatively, you can use a garlic press to crush the cloves into a paste. This will help distribute the garlicky flavor more evenly throughout the dish.
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Seasoning
Salt
Seasoning is key to enhancing the flavors in this dish. Start by adding a pinch of salt to the chicken breasts. Salt not only adds its own taste but also helps to bring out the natural flavors of the other ingredients.
Pepper
To give your chicken with sun-dried tomatoes a kick of heat and a touch of earthiness, add a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. This simple addition can elevate the flavors and make the dish more enjoyable.
Italian seasoning
To infuse the dish with a herbaceous and savory taste, sprinkle some Italian seasoning over the chicken. The combination of herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary will complement the other ingredients and add depth to the overall flavor profile.
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Cooking Instructions
Saute mode
To begin the cooking process, set your pressure cooker to sauté mode. This will allow you to brown the chicken and enhance its flavor before moving on to the pressure cooking stage. Make sure to preheat the pressure cooker by letting it heat up for a few minutes.
Adding the chicken
Once the pressure cooker is preheated, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the cooker. Allow them to brown on each side for a few minutes. This will help seal in the juices and create a delicious crust on the chicken.
Adding the sun-dried tomatoes
After the chicken has browned, it’s time to add the sun-dried tomatoes to the pressure cooker. The tomatoes will release their natural sweetness and savory flavors, combining with the chicken to create a delightful taste sensation.
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Pressure Cooking
Setting the pressure cooking time
Once you’ve added all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to set the pressure cooking time. Follow the instructions for your specific pressure cooker model to determine the appropriate cooking time for chicken. Generally, chicken breasts should be pressure cooked for around 8-10 minutes.
Starting the pressure cooking process
After setting the cooking time, secure the lid on the pressure cooker and ensure the pressure valve is set to the sealing position. Start the pressure cooking process and allow the cooker to come to full pressure. Once the desired pressure is reached, the cooking time will begin.
Natural release versus quick release
After the pressure cooking time is complete, you have two options for releasing the pressure: natural release or quick release. Natural release involves allowing the pressure to dissipate naturally, which can take around 10-15 minutes. Quick release involves carefully turning the pressure valve to quickly release the pressure.
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Finishing Touches
Adding fresh herbs
To enhance the flavors and add a pop of freshness to the dish, sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs over the chicken and sun-dried tomatoes. Herbs like parsley, basil, or chives work well and provide a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
Adjusting the seasoning
Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to bring out the flavors even more. Remember, cooking is all about personal taste, so feel free to customize the seasoning to your liking.
Thickening the sauce
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can use a cornstarch slurry to thicken it. Mix equal parts cornstarch and water to create a smooth paste, then add it to the pressure cooker while the sauce is still hot. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
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Serving Suggestions
Accompanying side dishes
To create a well-rounded meal, consider serving your chicken with sun-dried tomatoes over a bed of fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or al dente pasta. These side dishes will help soak up the flavorful sauce and provide a satisfying base for the dish.
Garnishes
For an added touch of elegance and visual appeal, garnish your chicken with sun-dried tomatoes with some freshly chopped herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. The garnishes not only enhance the presentation but also contribute to the overall taste experience.
Wine pairings
If you’re looking to elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this dish with a complementary wine. A light and crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity red wine like a Pinot Noir can complement the flavors in the dish and enhance your overall enjoyment.
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Tips and Variations
Adding other vegetables
If you want to incorporate more vegetables into this dish, consider adding some sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. These vegetables will not only add color and texture but also contribute additional nutritional value to the meal.
Using different cuts of chicken
Feel free to experiment with different cuts of chicken if you prefer something other than chicken breasts. Thighs, drumsticks, or even a whole chicken can work well in this recipe. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type and size of the chicken pieces.
Making it spicy
If you like a bit of heat in your dishes, you can add some crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the chicken with sun-dried tomatoes. This will give it a spicy kick and take the flavor profile in a different direction.
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Storage and Reheating
Storing leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken with sun-dried tomatoes can be safely stored for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before transferring it to the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
Reheating in a pressure cooker
To reheat the dish, you can use your pressure cooker once again. Simply add a splash of water or chicken broth to the leftover chicken and sun-dried tomatoes, set the pressure cooker to sauté mode, and gently warm the dish until it is heated through.
Reheating in the oven
Alternatively, you can reheat the dish in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), transfer the leftovers to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is warmed all the way through.
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Conclusion
Summary of the recipe
In conclusion, chicken with sun-dried tomatoes is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is quick and easy to prepare in a pressure cooker. The combination of tender chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic garlic creates a harmonious flavor profile that is sure to please your taste buds.
Final thoughts
By following these instructions, you can create a delicious and impressive meal that will become a family favorite. The pressure cooker allows you to lock in the flavors and cook the chicken to perfection in a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking methods.
Experimenting with flavors
Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe. You can experiment with different herbs, spices, and vegetables to tailor the dish to your own preferences. The beauty of cooking is that you can make it your own and enjoy the process of discovering new flavors.
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