Delicious Chicken Dish with Sun-dried Tomatoes: Tips for Large Crowds

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores various experiences and tips related to preparing a chicken dish featuring sun-dried tomatoes, particularly for serving large groups. Participants share their preferences for tomato types and methods for handling sun-dried tomatoes, as well as considerations for scaling the recipe for family gatherings.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a strong preference for using cherry tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes due to ease of use and flavor.
  • Another participant shares their experience of reconstituting dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes with olive oil and microwaving them for convenience.
  • Several participants mention the high cost of sun-dried tomatoes, leading them to opt for cherry tomatoes as a more affordable alternative.
  • One participant notes that halved cherry tomatoes may be too large compared to other ingredients in the dish and inquires about using grape tomatoes instead.
  • Another participant shares that they have successfully used regular chopped tomatoes in the recipe, although their partner prefers the original version with more sun-dried tomatoes.
  • One participant recounts their experience of preparing the dish for 18 people, indicating that two batches were sufficient for their gathering.
  • Another participant emphasizes that the dish tastes best with sun-dried tomatoes, noting that alternatives like cherry or grape tomatoes lack the desired tang.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ regarding the best type of tomato to use, with some participants favoring cherry tomatoes and others advocating for sun-dried tomatoes. There is no clear consensus on the optimal method for preparing the dish for large crowds.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and preferences regarding ingredient substitutions and preparation methods, reflecting a variety of cooking styles and tastes.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants and home cooks looking for insights on preparing a chicken dish for large gatherings, particularly those interested in tomato alternatives and scaling recipes.

vonfirmath
Messages
72
We LOVE this recipe (made with chicken to make it a main dish). The leftovers are always gone lickety-split.

But the sun-dried tomatoes in oil is a PAIN to deal with. I'm about to go the cherry tomato route instead, but was hoping someone here might have advice as to how to deal with them better?

Also, I want to make this for our family reunion, but we'll have 18 people (2 of which are toddlers) there. Will this recipe double? Or should I just make it separately twice?
 
One season I made this at a LOT of shows, and had a bag of sun dried tomatoes that were dry-packed. I'd put them in a measuring cup with a dash of olive oil to reconstitute them a bit, and microwave them on high for about a minute. There wasn't enough oil that they had to be dried off again, but they'd soften up some.If you want to skip the tomatoes, you can also use the jarred roasted red peppers. It's not the same flavor, but still good (and still adds a bit of color).
 
I think that I read somewhere that you can buy a large bag of sundried tomatoes without oil at costco - they are cheaper and easier to deal with. And that will be good if you do double the recipe.
 
I always use the cherry tomatoes. I've not had any issues and actually prefer them! They have a great summery flavor to me. It's been a few weeks since I made this dish, but I just followed the recipe /tip as written with no issue. If you have a specific question- let me know...I'll hopefully remember and can answer. :D
 
I used cherry tomatoes too. The sun-dried tomatoes are very expensive here - so I decided to use the cherry tomatoes instead. Had no problems using them.
 
I just used a tomoatoe and chopped it up, it turned out really good. My Dh loves this recipe but he says it has to many sundried tomatoes in it.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
Halved cherry tomatoes turn out to be too big for the size of everything else in this dish. Anyone used grape tomatoes instead? (halved). (I also had problems finding cherry tomatoes. They had Champagne, grape, strawberry, and "Campion" (or something like that). Oh and regular tomatoes and Roma of course.
 
I have got to try this one!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #9
After trying the recipe many different ways, I've determined that
1) 2 batches was more than enough for 18 people (13 adults, 2 2-year olds, 3 other children). Garlic bread and mixed vegetables on the side

2) It really does taste the best with the sun dried tomatoes. When I've tried it with tomatoes (Cherry or grape) It's just missing a tang

3) Frozen broccoli works fine
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are essential for a delicious chicken dish with sun-dried tomatoes?

For a delicious chicken dish with sun-dried tomatoes, you'll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sun-dried tomatoes (preferably packed in oil), garlic, fresh basil, cream or a cream substitute, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Seasonings like salt, pepper, and Italian herbs can enhance the flavor.

How can I prepare this dish in advance for a large crowd?

You can marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs a day before serving. Additionally, you can cook the chicken and sauce in advance, then reheat it gently before serving. Just be sure to keep it covered to retain moisture.

What is the best way to serve this dish to a large group?

For serving a large group, consider slicing the chicken into medallions and arranging them on a large platter. Drizzle the sun-dried tomato sauce over the top and garnish with fresh basil. This presentation makes it easy for guests to serve themselves.

Can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms or eggplant. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add some protein like chickpeas or tofu to maintain the dish's heartiness.

What side dishes pair well with chicken and sun-dried tomatoes?

Great side dishes include garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it over pasta or rice to create a complete meal that complements the flavors of the chicken and sun-dried tomatoes.

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