
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 can I use instead of heavy cream in this recipe?
- Can I make this dish vegetarian?
- How do I store leftovers properly?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Catch a whiff of this delightful dish that dances between creamy and tangy—the creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is a flavor explosion! Imagine twirling your fork through velvety sauce, punctuated by bursts of sweet-tart sun-dried tomatoes, all while a symphony of garlic and herbs wafts through the air. It’s like a warm hug on a plate.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s a moment in time. I remember the first time I prepared it for my best friend who claimed to be “a pasta connoisseur.” The look on her face as she took her first bite was priceless; it was a mixture of shock and euphoria that said, “Wow! You’ve outdone yourself!” Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests; this recipe is sure to bring smiles.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy chicken pasta offers quick preparation without sacrificing flavor or presentation.
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dinner table.
- The combination of creaminess and sun-dried tomatoes creates a unique flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
- It’s versatile enough for both casual family dinners and fancy gatherings.
I once made this dish for a potluck dinner, and let me tell you—the way people hovered around the serving bowl was something akin to moths drawn to a flame.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts for optimal tenderness; they cook evenly and absorb flavors beautifully.
- Pasta (Fettuccine or Penne): Choose your favorite type; thicker pastas hold onto the sauce better.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for quality ones packed in oil for enhanced flavor; they add a delightful sweetness.
- Heavy Cream: This creates that luscious creaminess; don’t skimp—go full fat for the best results!
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential here; their aroma will fill your kitchen with warmth.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition; toss it in at the end for vibrant green flecks.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the top for that irresistible cheesy finish!
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it elevates the entire dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those beautiful flavors throughout your meal.
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 ahead of time to streamline your cooking process. Chop garlic finely and slice chicken into bite-sized pieces to cook evenly.
Cook the Pasta: Bring water in a large pot to boil and add salt before tossing in your chosen pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions—around 8-10 minutes should do!
Sauté Chicken and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add diced chicken. Sauté until browned on all sides—about 6-8 minutes—then toss in minced garlic until fragrant.
Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes along with fresh spinach leaves. Cook until spinach wilts down beautifully—approximately 2-3 minutes should suffice.
Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in heavy cream while stirring gently to combine everything. Allow it to simmer on low heat until thickened slightly—about 5 minutes should do!
Toss Everything Together!: Add cooked pasta directly into the skillet along with grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well coated in that dreamy sauce!
Your kitchen now smells like an Italian bistro! Serve immediately while it’s hot and garnished with extra Parmesan if you desire—it’s time to dig in!
Remember, cooking is about joy—not just sustenance! Enjoy every bite of your creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes as laughter fills your home!
You Must Know
- This creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is a delightful blend of flavors.
- The rich creaminess perfectly complements the tangy tomatoes, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and elegant.
- Don’t be surprised if you find yourself savoring every last bite!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce. This sequence ensures everything is ready at once, making your dinner experience seamless and enjoyable.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different proteins like shrimp or tofu for a twist. Adding fresh spinach or peas can enhance both color and nutrition, making this dish as versatile as it is delicious.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce’s luscious texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always season your chicken well before cooking; it really amps up the flavor.
- Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for maximum taste impact.
- If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a delightful twist.
Sharing this creamy chicken pasta with my family has become a cherished tradition. Their smiles and satisfied sighs remind me why I love cooking so much; it brings us all together around the table.
FAQ
What can I use instead of heavy cream in this recipe?
You can substitute half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap chicken for chickpeas or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How do I store leftovers properly?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for best quality.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-dried Tomatoes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a rich and satisfying dish that features tender chicken, creamy sauce, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping garlic and cutting chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Sauté the chicken until browned on all sides (about 6-8 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts (about 2-3 minutes).
- Pour in heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Toss in the cooked pasta along with grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For added flavor, season your chicken with herbs before cooking.
- Substitute shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- Add peas or other vegetables for extra nutrition and color.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 100mg