Introduction
If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes that deliver rich flavors and comfort in every bite, this Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta recipe is a must-try. With tender, seasoned chicken, robust sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy Parmesan sauce that coats each piece of pasta perfectly, this meal is both hearty and indulgent. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy.
Ingredients with Quantities
Before diving into the steps, gather your ingredients to make this recipe seamlessly. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lb pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Begin by preparing the chicken, as it’s a key component that brings both protein and savory flavor to the dish.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle salt and pepper on the chicken pieces to season.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Place the chicken in the skillet, cooking for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Set Aside: Once done, transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside. This allows the skillet to be used for the next steps without overcooking the chicken.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Using the same skillet, infuse flavor by sautéing garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Add Garlic: Pour the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil into the skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute or until fragrant. Be cautious not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for another 2 minutes to release their flavor. The oil from the tomatoes combines well with the garlic, enhancing the richness of the dish.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
This creamy, Parmesan-based sauce is the heart of the recipe, lending a lush, velvety coating to the pasta and chicken.
- Pour in Heavy Cream and Broth: Slowly add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir the mixture until fully combined.
- Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan, allowing it to melt and integrate into the sauce. This gives the sauce a creamy, rich texture with a slightly salty note that balances the tomatoes’ tanginess.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce is coming together, it’s time to cook the pasta.
- Prepare the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
- Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta once cooked, but do not rinse. Set it aside until it’s ready to be combined with the sauce and chicken.
Step 5: Combine All Ingredients
Bringing it all together is the final, satisfying step.
- Return the Chicken to the Skillet: Place the cooked chicken back in the skillet with the sauce, stirring to ensure it’s well-coated.
- Add the Pasta: Gently fold the pasta into the skillet, mixing everything together so that the sauce evenly coats each piece.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh basil on top for a pop of color and a fragrant finish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the pasta to serving plates, garnishing with additional basil or Parmesan, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the harmony of flavors in each bite.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Penne and fettuccine are great choices, but any pasta that can hold the sauce well, like rigatoni, farfalle, or even spaghetti, would work.
2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free alternative, like coconut cream. Keep in mind this may slightly alter the sauce’s richness.
3. Are there alternatives to sun-dried tomatoes?
If sun-dried tomatoes aren’t available, you could use fresh cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a similar flavor profile.
4. How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance, storing them separately. When ready to serve, simply combine everything in the skillet and heat through.
Conclusion
Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a dish that beautifully combines savory, tangy, and creamy flavors in every bite. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients and quick preparation, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you need a dish that feels special without hours of effort. Each forkful delivers the succulent taste of tender chicken, complemented by the tang of sun-dried tomatoes and the creaminess of Parmesan sauce. Whether enjoyed as a cozy dinner at home or a show-stopping meal for guests, this pasta is sure to be a new favorite.