Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and pasta in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s easy to make, filling, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. A simple, comforting recipe that everyone will enjoy.
Why We Love This Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
This dish strikes a perfect balance between indulgence and wholesome eating. The creaminess of the sauce complements the lean chicken, while the sun-dried tomatoes add an unexpected burst of flavor that keeps things interesting. You may also appreciate the versatility of the recipe, allowing you to throw in your favorite veggies or tweak the ingredients depending on what you have on hand. Not only does it look stunning on your plate, but it also satisfies cravings without being overly complicated. Some meals leave you feeling heavy, but this one offers a light satisfaction that makes you want to come back for seconds. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a cozy dinner for one, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients about Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
To bring this delicious dish to life, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian blend seasoning or Herbs de Provence
- 3 ounces sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream or half and half
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
How to Make Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Directions
Creating your Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked. Once done, transfer it to a plate and cover it to keep warm.
With the skillet still on the heat, melt the butter. As it melts, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Next, toss in the sun-dried tomatoes along with your choice of Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence. Stir everything together for around a minute to ensure the flavors meld perfectly.
Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a high simmer. This is a crucial step as it sets the stage for your creamy sauce. Once simmering, gradually stir in the heavy cream (or half and half if you prefer a lighter option) and the freshly grated parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes. You should notice that the sauce becomes incredibly creamy during this time. For a final touch, season it with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste.
Now comes the moment of truth! Stir in the cooked chicken and penne noodles, ensuring they are well coated with that luscious sauce. If desired, top your dish with extra parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of cracked black pepper, and a handful of fresh herbs before serving. This final touch elevates it from delicious to extraordinary.
How to Serve Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
Serving your Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta in a beautiful way can make a world of difference. Start by plating generous portions in warm bowls. The creamy sauce should glisten enticingly on your penne, drawing attention and appetite. For an added dose of flavor and aesthetics, garnish with freshly cracked black pepper, a sprinkle of additional parmesan cheese, and perhaps some finely chopped fresh herbs, like basil or parsley. These little herbs not only elevate the dish visually but also complement the flavors wonderfully.
Consider accompanying your pasta with a side salad or some crusty bread to scoop up the sauce, which can make for a delightful dining experience. A light, crisp salad with a lemon vinaigrette is perfect for cutting through the creaminess of the dish, refreshing the palate. And remember, this dish is not just for special occasions; its indulgent flavor makes it a great weeknight choice as well!
Expert Tips: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
Even though this recipe is easy to follow, a few tips can elevate your dish to the next level. Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes, preferably those packed in oil, as they add so much flavor and richness to the sauce. If you want to incorporate a hint of tang, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving. This will enhance the flavors and brighten the overall dish.
When cooking your pasta, opt for al dente as it will hold up better when tossed with the sauce. Also, reserve a little pasta water before draining it; adding a splash of this starchy water can help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
For a creamier texture, don’t hesitate to whisk the cream and parmesan together separately before adding it to the skillet; this helps in making sure the cheese melts smoothly without clumps.
How to Store Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
If you find yourself with leftover Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta, storing it properly is key to maintaining its flavors and textures. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently over low heat on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up while reheating, ensuring it remains as delicious as the first time you made it.
For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta. Place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, and it can last up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for convenience.
Variation of Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
This recipe is versatile, allowing you to mix and match ingredients based on what you enjoy or have on hand. Feel free to switch up the protein; shrimp or turkey will work wonderfully instead of chicken if that’s what you’re craving.
For a veggie-packed dish, toss in some spinach or kale during the cooking process, allowing it to wilt into the creamy sauce. You could also melt in some fresh mozzarella for an extra layer of creaminess and flavor. If you’re in the mood for something zesty, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or some olives for a Mediterranean twist.
For a lighter option, you could substitute half of the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk, while the flavor still remains rich and satisfying. Cooking becomes an art here, where you can express your tastes and preferences perfectly!
FAQ: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
What makes Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta special?
The combination of flavors is what truly sets this dish apart. The creamy sauce, coupled with the savory sun-dried tomatoes and tender chicken, creates a delightful balance that appeals to many palates. It’s a versatile recipe that can be tweaked depending on personal preferences, making it a versatile family favorite.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works exceptionally well in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like fettuccine, rigatoni, or even gluten-free options. The cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on those.
How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
To make Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta vegetarian, replace the chicken with hearty veggies, such as roasted bell peppers or zucchini, and consider adding beans for protein. Leave out the chicken broth or substitute it with vegetable broth for a plant-based version.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While this dish is best enjoyed freshly made, you can prepare the components in advance. Cook the chicken and sauce separately and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, warm them and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
What should I serve with Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?
This dish pairs beautifully with a light Caesar salad, garlic bread, or even just a simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette. These sides complement the creamy pasta while keeping the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- 2 Tbsp. butter
- 1 Tbsp. minced garlic
- 1 tsp. Italian blend seasoning or Herbs de Provence
- 3 oz sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1½ cups heavy cream or half and half
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
- Melt the butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Stir for about a minute to meld the flavors.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a high simmer. Gradually stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until creamy.
- Stir in the cooked chicken and penne noodles, ensuring everything is well coated with the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
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