Imagine a dish that wraps you in a creamy embrace, where tender chicken dances with sun-dried tomatoes in a sauce so rich, it could win an Academy Award for Best Supporting Flavor. This creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is not just food; it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds and invites you to indulge. As the aroma wafts through your kitchen, it promises a comforting meal perfect for cozy nights or fancy dinner parties where you want to impress without the stress. For more inspiration, check out this hearty dinner ideas recipe.
Picture this: it’s a rainy Sunday afternoon, and you’re huddled at home with your favorite blanket and a Netflix binge. The thought of cooking feels daunting until you remember this recipe. You can whip up this creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes faster than you can say “I need more carbs!” Each bite is like a warm hug from an old friend, making it the ideal dish for any occasion where comfort food is required.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy chicken pasta is simple enough for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for entertaining guests
- The blend of flavors creates a delightful taste explosion
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any plate
- Customize it easily by adding vegetables or swapping proteins based on your preferences
Cooking this dish always brings smiles from my family; they devour it within minutes and ask for seconds!
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 your crowd.
Pasta of Choice: Use fettuccine or penne; both hold sauce beautifully.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for the jarred variety packed in oil for extra flavor.
Heavy Cream: This is the magic ingredient that makes everything creamy and dreamy.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth; don’t skimp on this aromatic gem!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese takes this dish to another level of cheesy goodness.
Spinach (optional): A handful of fresh spinach adds color and nutrition without overpowering the dish.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it complements the flavors perfectly.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t forget these little flavor boosters!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Once bubbling, add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown.
Add Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: When the chicken is nearly done, stir in minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Pour in the Cream: Reduce heat slightly and pour heavy cream into the skillet. Stir gently as it thickens, creating that luscious sauce we all crave.
Toss in Spinach and Cheese: Add fresh spinach if using, letting it wilt before stirring in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Combine Pasta with Sauce: Drain the cooked pasta (reserving some pasta water) before adding to the skillet. Toss everything together until coated; add reserved water if needed for consistency.
Now take a moment to savor your creation before dishing out servings—this creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes deserves your undivided attention!
Enjoy every bite as you gather around the table—this meal isn’t just food; it’s love served on a plate!
You Must Know
- This creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is a showstopper
- It’s not just delicious; the colors and aromas will have everyone asking for seconds
- Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder that makes clean-up a breeze
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests!
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 fresh and hot when served, creating a delightful dining experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add spinach for extra nutrients. You can also play with spices like red pepper flakes to give it a kick, making this dish uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or broth and warm gently on the stove to keep it creamy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning and ensure the flavors shine through
- Using freshly grated Parmesan will elevate your dish beyond expectations
- Lastly, don’t forget to let your chicken rest before slicing to retain its juiciness
Sharing this dish at a family gathering led to my cousin declaring it “the best pasta ever!” I think I might have a new dinner party staple on my hands!
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and is a healthier option.
What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?
Roasted red peppers offer a similar texture and sweetness if sun-dried tomatoes aren’t available.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep; just store portions in individual containers for easy reheating.
Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken and rich flavors in a luscious sauce. Perfect for cozy nights or elegant dinner parties, this recipe invites you to indulge in comfort food that impresses without the fuss. With vibrant colors and customizable ingredients, it’s a meal that promises smiles from family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (jarred, packed in oil)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper; cook until golden brown.
- Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Stir in minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in Cream: Reduce heat slightly, add heavy cream, and stir gently until thickened.
- Incorporate Spinach and Cheese: If using, add spinach to wilt before stirring in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Combine Pasta with Sauce: Toss drained pasta into the skillet, mixing well to coat with the creamy sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider including vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Spice it up with red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
