Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare, this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is the perfect choice. The combination of tender chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce makes for an unforgettable meal. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Pasta

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound (450 grams) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Preparation

Preparing the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Preparing the Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Large pot
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

1. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet used for the chicken, add a little more olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce

1. Add the Broth and Cream: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine.
2. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
3. Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Slice the Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
2. Combine Chicken and Pasta: Add the sliced chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until well coated.
3. Garnish and Serve: Serve the pasta in bowls or plates, garnished with fresh basil and additional grated Parmesan cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with Sides

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with this rich pasta dish.
• Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy sauce.

Conclusion

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a delectable dish that brings together the flavors of tender chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious creamy sauce. It’s a perfect meal for any night of the week and sure to impress your family and friends.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti work well with this recipe.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta and chicken ahead of time. Store them separately and combine just before serving. Reheat the sauce gently over low heat.

3. Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but the sauce will be less creamy. You may need to add a bit of cornstarch slurry to thicken it.

4. What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

You can use fresh cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

Yield: 6

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe

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If you’re looking for a dish that's rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare, this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is the perfect choice. The combination of tender chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce makes for an unforgettable meal. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 (8 ounce) jar oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 4 teaspoons Italian seasoning (see note)
• 1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
• red pepper flakes
• kosher salt and black pepper
• 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 medium shallot, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 pound short cut pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

1. Drain 3 tablespoons of oil from the sun-dried tomato jar into a large pot or skillet with sides. Chop the sun-dried tomatoes and set aside.
2. Set the pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning, the paprika, and a pinch each of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden brown, 5 minutes. Add 1/4 cup parmesan, cook another minute, then remove the chicken from the pot.
3. To the same pot, add the butter, shallot, garlic, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Cook until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add 3 1/2 cups water. Bring to a boil, add the pasta, and cook, stirring often, until the pasta is al dente, 8 minutes. Stir in the cream, mustard, parmesan, spinach, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Slide the chicken and any juices left on the plate.
4. Serve the pasta topped with lemon juice and fresh parmesan.