Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-dried Tomatoes

If you’ve ever found yourself standing in front of your pantry, wondering what to make for dinner that’s quick, satisfying, and utterly delicious, then look no further than this creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes. Picture this: tender chicken, perfectly seasoned, nestled in a rich and velvety cream sauce, studded with bursts of intense sun-dried tomatoes. The aroma that fills your kitchen as you cook this dish is enough to make your mouth water with anticipation.

One of the best parts about this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the sun-dried tomatoes for fresh cherry tomatoes if you have them on hand, or toss in a handful of spinach for some vibrant color and added nutrition. The creamy sauce is like a blank canvas, ready to be customized to your liking. Are you a fan of spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Craving some extra richness? A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese never goes amiss.

As you twirl a forkful of the creamy chicken pasta, each bite is a symphony of flavors and textures. The succulent chicken, the slight chew of the al dente pasta, the tangy sweetness of the sun-dried tomatoes—all coming together in perfect harmony. It’s the kind of dish that makes you slow down, savoring each mouthful, and appreciating the simple joys of a homemade meal.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can whip up a restaurant-worthy meal right in your own kitchen. And trust me, once you’ve tasted this creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes, it will become a regular in your dinner rotation. So, gather your ingredients, don your apron, and get ready to create a dish that will have your family and friends singing your praises.

Key Ingredients in Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-dried Tomatoes

Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that make this creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes so irresistibly delicious:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Tender and lean, chicken breasts are the perfect protein for this dish. They cook quickly and soak up the flavors of the creamy sauce, adding a hearty element to the pasta.
• Salt and Black Pepper: These pantry staples are essential for seasoning the chicken and the sauce, ensuring that every bite is perfectly seasoned.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the chicken and garlic, olive oil adds a rich flavor and helps create a golden crust on the chicken.
• Penne Pasta: The choice of pasta in this recipe, penne’s tube-like shape and ridges hold onto the creamy sauce, allowing for a satisfying bite in every forkful.
• Heavy Cream: The star ingredient in the creamy sauce, heavy cream adds richness and a luscious velvety texture to the dish.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A classic addition to creamy pasta dishes, Parmesan cheese brings a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
• Sun-dried Tomatoes: Packed with intense sweet-tart flavors, sun-dried tomatoes add bursts of umami and a chewy texture, elevating the overall taste profile of the dish.
• Garlic: Aromatic and flavorful, minced garlic infuses the dish with a savory undertone, complementing the creaminess of the sauce.
• Dried Basil and Oregano: These dried herbs lend a hint of earthy freshness to the dish, providing depth of flavor and a touch of Mediterranean flair to the creamy chicken pasta.

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures in this comforting and decadent creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-dried Tomatoes

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-dried Tomatoes

Alright, you’ve nailed the creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes, and now it’s time to take your dining experience up a notch with these delightful serving suggestions:

1. Garlic Bread on the Side: What’s a comforting pasta dish without a side of warm, buttery garlic bread? Whip up a batch of garlic bread to accompany your creamy chicken pasta. The crispy exterior and soft, garlicky interior of the bread are perfect for soaking up every last bit of that velvety sauce. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this winning combination.
2. Simple Green Salad: Balance out the richness of the creamy chicken pasta with a simple green salad on the side. A mix of fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a tangy vinaigrette will add a refreshing crunch to your meal. The bright, crisp flavors of the salad provide a lovely contrast to the decadent creaminess of the pasta, making each bite a delightful experience.
3. Wine Pairing: Elevate your dining experience by pairing your creamy chicken pasta with the perfect glass of wine. A crisp white wine like a Chardonnay or a Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce and sun-dried tomatoes beautifully. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the dish, cleansing your palate and enhancing the overall flavors. Cheers to a fantastic meal!

With these serving suggestions, you’ll not only elevate the flavors of your creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes but also create a memorable dining experience that’s sure to impress your family and friends. So, gather around the table, pour yourself a glass of wine, and indulge in this effortlessly delicious meal. Bon appétit!

How to Store Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-dried Tomatoes

Once you’ve whipped up a batch of creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes, you might find yourself with some delectable leftovers. To ensure that this flavorful dish stays just as delicious the next day, proper storage is key.

First and foremost, make sure to allow any leftover creamy chicken pasta to cool completely before attempting to store it. Once cooled, transfer the pasta to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. For added protection against freezer burn, consider wrapping the container in aluminum foil before sealing it shut.

If you plan on enjoying your leftovers within the next couple of days, storing the creamy chicken pasta in the refrigerator is your best bet. Simply place the airtight container in the fridge, where it can stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to dig in again, a quick reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave will have your creamy chicken pasta tasting just as scrumptious as it did the day you made it.

Alternatively, if you’d like to save your creamy chicken pasta for a later date, freezing is a great option. Pop the airtight container in the freezer, where it can last for up to 2-3 months. To defrost, transfer the container to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen treasure, a gentle reheating on the stovetop with a splash of cream to refresh the sauce will have your creamy chicken pasta tasting like it was just freshly made.

By following these simple storage tips, you can ensure that your creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes retains its irresistible flavors and textures, allowing you to savor this delectable dish time and time again.

Conclusion

And there you have it, a delightful journey through the creation of a creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes that is sure to tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul. From the tender chicken to the velvety cream sauce, every element of this dish comes together harmoniously to create a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

With the easy-to-follow steps and versatile nature of this recipe, you can customize it to your liking and make it a regular star at your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for your family, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this creamy chicken pasta is bound to be a hit.

If you decide to recreate this mouthwatering dish, don’t forget to share your experience! I’d love to hear how it turned out for you and any tweaks you made to make it your own. Feel free to leave a comment below with your feedback or questions, and I’ll be more than happy to chat with you about all things food and cooking.

So, as you finish reading this article, why not print it out and save it for your next culinary adventure? Keep it handy for those days when you’re in need of a quick and delicious meal that’s guaranteed to satisfy. Until next time, happy cooking and bon appétit!

Print Recipe

Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-dried Tomatoes

Author: Maria Bennet Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 35 mins

Calories: 600

Description

Velvety pasta swirled in a luscious cream sauce, studded with savory chicken and bursts of intense sun-dried tomatoes. Each bite is a journey of rich, comforting flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 8 ounces penne pasta

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ¹⁄₂ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ¹⁄₄ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked.
6. Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the chicken to a cutting board.
7. Cover the chicken with foil to keep it warm and let it rest for at least 5 minutes.
8. While the chicken is resting, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
9. In the same skillet used for the chicken, add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, basil, and oregano.
10. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
11. Slice the chicken into thin strips.
12. Add the sliced chicken back to the skillet with the creamy sauce and stir to combine.
13. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet as well.
14. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
15. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
16. Serve the creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
17. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Note

• For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and lemon juice for 30 minutes before seasoning with salt and pepper.
• To save time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken breasts from scratch.
• Substitute penne pasta with any type of pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or bowtie pasta.
• If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
• Feel free to customize the dish by adding in vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Keywords: Creamy Chicken Pasta, Sun-dried Tomato Pasta, Chicken Pasta Recipe, Creamy Sun-dried Tomato Chicken, Pasta with Sun-dried Tomatoes