This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. With a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors, this pasta dish is quick and easy to make, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a special meal.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
Directions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned.
- Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped basil.
Servings and Timing:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
Variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian meal.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat in the creamy sauce.
- Add Bacon: For extra flavor, crispy bacon can be added along with the chicken.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating:
- Storage: Leftover creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to bring the sauce back to a creamy consistency. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, stirring halfway through.
10 FAQs:
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes? While sun-dried tomatoes give a unique tangy flavor, you can use fresh tomatoes if preferred. However, sun-dried tomatoes add a depth of flavor that fresh tomatoes cannot replicate.
- Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative. Use dairy-free parmesan or omit the cheese altogether.
- What other types of pasta can I use? You can use any type of pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti, depending on your preference.
- Can I use store-bought sun-dried tomatoes in oil? Yes, store-bought sun-dried tomatoes in oil can be used. Just drain and chop them before adding to the skillet.
- Can I add more vegetables to this dish? Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrients.
- Can I freeze leftovers? While this dish can be frozen, the creaminess of the sauce may change once reheated. It’s best to store leftovers in the fridge and enjoy them within a few days.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and chicken mixture ahead of time, then reheat it when ready to add the pasta.
- How can I make the sauce thicker? To thicken the sauce, you can let it simmer for a few more minutes or stir in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.
- Can I substitute the chicken with another protein? Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different protein option.
- How can I make the sauce spicier? To add heat, you can mix in red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the sauce.
Conclusion:
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With its rich and creamy sauce, tender chicken, and the distinctive flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a dish that will become a family favorite. Easy to make and full of flavor, this recipe is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your hunger on a busy weeknight.