Imagine twirling your fork around a plate of creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes, where the luscious sauce clings to each strand of al dente pasta, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. The aroma wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug, whispering promises of comfort and satisfaction. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to a cozy Italian trattoria, even if you’re just in your kitchen wearing pajamas. For more inspiration, check out this more main dish recipes recipe.
I’ll never forget the first time I made this creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes for my best friend. We were having one of those evenings where we needed a pick-me-up. As the rich scent filled the air, her eyes lit up in anticipation. And let’s just say, there was nothing left in the bowl by the end of dinner—and plenty of giggles over who could twirl the pasta better! For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes collection recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy chicken pasta is not only easy to whip up but also bursts with flavor in every bite
- The vibrant colors from sun-dried tomatoes add visual appeal, making it perfect for dinner parties or cozy nights in
- Its versatility allows for endless customization based on your preferences and what’s in your pantry
I once served this dish at a family gathering, and everyone kept asking for seconds—talk about a hit!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; adjust based on how many you’re feeding or your love for chicken.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm garlic cloves for maximum flavor; they are essential for that aromatic base.
Pasta (Fettuccine or Penne): Opt for your favorite type; both hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
Heavy Cream: This is what gives our dish its luscious texture; don’t skimp here!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Look for oil-packed versions; they offer intense flavor and extra moisture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh cheese for that nutty finish that ties everything together.
Spinach (Optional): Adds color and nutrition; plus, who doesn’t love sneaking veggies into their meals?
Olive Oil: A drizzle adds richness and helps cook the chicken to perfection.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that brighten all the flavors; don’t forget to taste as you go!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it but save a cup of pasta water for later.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Add Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Toss minced garlic into the skillet with cooked chicken and sauté until fragrant, around 1 minute. Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and let them mingle for another minute.
Create the Sauce: Lower the heat slightly and pour in heavy cream while scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir well until everything is combined and bubbly.
Add Cheese and Spinach: Gradually mix grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce until melted. If using spinach, toss it in now until wilted—this takes about 2 minutes.
Toss with Pasta: Add drained pasta into your creamy mixture along with reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency. Stir well to coat every noodle before serving.
And voilà! You’ve created an incredible creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes that’s sure to impress family or surprise yourself with how simple it was!
You Must Know
- This creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is a comforting dish that impresses
- The combination of flavors creates a rich, satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table
- Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this easy recipe
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfection, start by searing the chicken to develop flavor, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce simultaneously.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize with spinach, mushrooms, or even different cheeses for a unique twist on this classic dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor; they make a noticeable difference
- Don’t rush the searing process; let your chicken develop a golden crust for added depth
- Lastly, taste as you go!
- Adjust seasoning and creaminess according to your preference for perfection
Cooking this creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes always brings back fond memories of family dinners filled with laughter and smiles. It’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress!
FAQ
Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work well, so choose your favorite.
How can I make it dairy-free?
Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
What can I serve alongside this dish?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with creamy chicken pasta.
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, easy-to-make dish that brings the flavors of Italy to your kitchen. This comforting recipe features tender chicken and al dente pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, punctuated by the tang of sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and incredible taste.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown.
- Add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Lower heat and stir in heavy cream, scraping up browned bits from the pan.
- Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Add spinach if using; cook until wilted (about 2 minutes).
- Toss drained pasta into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating mushrooms or other vegetables. To make it dairy-free, swap heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream.