Indulging in a bowl of creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta is like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a chilly evening. Picture this: tender chicken bathed in velvety cream, mingling with the rich, tangy flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta that clings to every delectable morsel. Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta The aroma wafts through your kitchen, pulling everyone in with promises of comfort and satisfaction. It’s not just food; it’s an invitation to gather around the table, share stories, and relish the moments that make life delicious.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
- How do I make this dish lighter?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish holds a special place in my heart. I recall the first time I made creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta for my notoriously picky cousin, who usually turned her nose up at anything green or saucy. As she took her first bite, her eyes lit up as if she’d just discovered chocolate for the first time. Ground Turkey and Peppers Moments like these remind us that food is not just about sustenance; it’s about creating memories that linger long after the plates are empty.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta is incredibly easy to prepare even on busy weeknights
- Its flavor profile balances creamy richness with bright acidity from tomatoes
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing and perfect for impressing guests
- This dish is versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or protein options
The other day, my friend declared this dish as “life-changing” after one forkful at dinner.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts but adjust based on how many you’re feeding.
- Pasta: Any type works here; penne or fettuccine are my favorites for their ability to hold sauce well.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for packed ones in oil for extra flavor; they add a delightful tang.
- Heavy Cream: Full-fat cream will give you that luscious texture; don’t skimp here!
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm garlic cloves for a robust flavor; fresh is always best. Crispy Garlic Parmesan Wedges.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated freshly adds depth and nuttiness; sprinkle generously on top before serving.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality olive oil for sautéing; it enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Spinach (optional): Add fresh spinach at the end for color and a nutritious boost.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients and chopping your garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. This prep work makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Cook the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides and cooked through—about 6-7 minutes per side—then remove them from the pan.
Add Garlic and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and toss in minced garlic followed by chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté until fragrant—around 1-2 minutes—and let those flavors mingle.
Create the Cream Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer while stirring continuously until it thickens slightly—about 3-5 minutes should do it!
Toss in Pasta and Spinach: Add cooked pasta along with fresh spinach into the sauce mixture. Stir gently until everything is combined and heated through—the spinach will wilt beautifully!
Finish with Chicken and Cheese: Slice your cooked chicken breasts and place them atop your creamy pasta masterpiece. Finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese to elevate its glory before serving! For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta recipe.
Now you’re ready to dig into a plate of creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta that will have everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy each bite as laughter fills your kitchen, making memories along with every delicious mouthful. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Seafood Delight recipe.
You Must Know
- This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors
- The rich aroma of sun-dried tomatoes mingling with garlic and cream will make your kitchen feel like a five-star restaurant
- Plus, it’s super quick—perfect for busy weeknights!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce. This sequence ensures everything is perfectly timed and delicious.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different proteins or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Homemade Bread Recipe Experimenting can turn this recipe into your own signature dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream to restore its luscious texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To elevate your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta, consider using fresh herbs for added brightness
- Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it tender and juicy
- Lastly, remember that pasta water can help adjust sauce consistency if needed
I once whipped this dish up for a dinner party, and my friends still rave about it! They couldn’t believe how simple yet delicious it was, making me feel like a culinary genius.
FAQ
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Penne or fettuccine works wonderfully in this creamy dish, holding onto the sauce perfectly.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
Yes, but sun-dried tomatoes provide intense flavor that fresh ones can’t match.
How do I make this dish lighter?
Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or use low-fat milk for a healthier twist.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in a bowl of creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta, where tender chicken meets a luscious cream sauce infused with tangy sun-dried tomatoes. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a wonderful way to create lasting memories with family and friends. Perfect for busy weeknights, this flavorful pasta is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by chopping garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté the chicken until golden brown on both sides (approximately 6-7 minutes per side). Remove from pan.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes; sauté until fragrant (1-2 minutes).
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently while stirring until the sauce thickens slightly (3-5 minutes).
- Add cooked pasta and fresh spinach; stir until combined and heated through.
- Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the pasta. Finish with freshly grated Parmesan before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg