Imagine a warm evening where the aroma of garlic and fresh herbs fills the kitchen. You take a moment to inhale deeply, letting those delightful scents wrap around you like a cozy blanket. This is the magic of creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes—a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also transports you to a charming Italian trattoria.
Now picture this: your friends gather around the table, laughter echoing as they eagerly await the first bite of your cooking masterpiece. You serve up heaping plates of this creamy delight, and before you know it, compliments are flying faster than spaghetti on a fork! The joy this dish brings makes it perfect for cozy family dinners or lively gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy chicken pasta is simple enough for a weeknight yet fancy enough for guests
- The flavors dance together beautifully, making each bite a treat
- Visually stunning with its vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress anyone at the table
- Plus, it’s versatile—you can switch up ingredients based on what’s in your fridge!
One time I served this dish at a family gathering, and my aunt practically begged me for the recipe. She even offered to trade her famous cookie recipe!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy chicken breasts work best; aim for about 3-4 pieces depending on servings.
- Pasta: I prefer penne or fettuccine here; they hold onto the sauce perfectly.
- Sun-dried Tomatoes: Look for oil-packed varieties for extra flavor; chop them finely to distribute evenly throughout.
- Heavy Cream: This adds richness and creaminess; don’t skimp—it’s what makes this dish indulgent!
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate any dish; use about 3-4 cloves minced for optimal flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is always better; it melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Fresh Basil: Adds a pop of color and freshness; chop some leaves to sprinkle as a finishing touch.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it enhances overall flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings for balance—don’t forget to taste as you go!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process. Chop your sun-dried tomatoes and mince the garlic so everything is ready to go.
Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them into the pan. Cook until golden brown on both sides.
Add Garlic and Sun-dried Tomatoes: Once your chicken is cooked through—about 6-7 minutes per side—remove it from the skillet. In the same pan, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes; sauté until fragrant.
Create Your Creamy Sauce: Pour in heavy cream slowly while stirring constantly to combine. Let it simmer gently until slightly thickened—don’t rush this part!
Add Cooked Pasta: Toss in your cooked pasta and stir well to coat every piece in that luscious sauce. Slice your chicken breasts and nestle them atop the pasta.
Finish With Cheese and Basil: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over everything while it’s still hot so it melts perfectly. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves just before serving.
Enjoy each mouthful knowing you’ve created something truly special! This creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes isn’t just food—it’s an experience waiting to happen!
You Must Know
- The secret to a great creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes lies in the quality of your ingredients
- Fresh herbs and good-quality cheese can elevate this dish from simple to sensational
- Plus, the aroma of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes sizzling is simply irresistible!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, then cook your chicken until golden. Meanwhile, boil your pasta al dente to perfection for an ideal texture that absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added color and nutrition. You can also use different cheeses such as Gouda or mozzarella for unique flavors that will surprise everyone.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream to restore its creamy consistency and heat on low until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the creamiest sauce, whisk in a bit of pasta water before serving
- Avoid overcooking your chicken; it should be juicy and tender
- Lastly, don’t skip on seasoning; taste as you go for the best results!
I remember the first time I made this creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes for a dinner party. Everyone went back for seconds, leaving me feeling like a culinary rock star!
FAQ
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with mushrooms or firm tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.
What type of pasta works best?
Fettuccine or penne are great choices that hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
How do I store leftovers properly?
Make sure to refrigerate in an airtight container; it keeps fresh for about three days.
Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-dried Tomatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-dried Tomatoes is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken and tangy sun-dried tomatoes in a luscious creamy sauce, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients. Chop sun-dried tomatoes and mince garlic.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes; sauté until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
- Pour in heavy cream slowly while stirring constantly. Let simmer until slightly thickened (about 3 minutes).
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Toss cooked pasta in the creamy sauce until well coated.
- Slice chicken and nestle on top of the pasta. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- For added nutrition, consider mixing in spinach or bell peppers.
- Different cheeses like Gouda can create unique flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 670
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 120mg