Chicken Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes
Highlighted under: Everyday Meals
I love making Chicken Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes because it brings together such vibrant flavors in a quick and easy dish. The combination of savory chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce makes for a satisfying meal. Not only is it delicious, but it also showcases my favorite pantry staples, and I can prepare it in about 30 minutes! This has become a go-to recipe for busy weeknights when I want to impress my family without spending hours in the kitchen.
When I first experimented with this recipe, I was blown away by how the sun-dried tomatoes brought the dish to life. Their concentrated flavor complements the chicken beautifully, creating a burst of taste with every bite. I also found that using fresh herbs at the end adds a refreshing touch that brightens everything up.
To make this dish even more special, I decided to add a splash of white wine to the sauce. The acidity helps balance the richness and enhances the overall flavor profile. It's these little tweaks that transform a simple meal into something truly memorable.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy sauce balanced by tangy sun-dried tomatoes
- Quick and satisfying meal ready in 30 minutes
- Versatile: perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining
Understanding the Ingredients
The key to a delicious Chicken Pasta With Sun-Dried Tomatoes lies in choosing the right quality ingredients. Select sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for added flavor; they have a richer taste and a more tender texture compared to those dried without oil. Freshly minced garlic also elevates the flavor profile, delivering a robust aroma and taste that will complement the cream sauce beautifully.
Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated enhances the creamy sauce’s texture and flavor. The freshly grated cheese melts smoothly and helps thicken the sauce, making each bite irresistible. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano can provide a similar salty, rich kick, though it's best to use it sparingly as it has a stronger flavor.
Cooking Techniques for Success
When sautéing the chicken, ensure your skillet is adequately heated with olive oil before adding the meat. This helps achieve a golden, crispy surface while ensuring the chicken cooks evenly. Look for a lightly browned exterior and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfect doneness. If you notice any bits sticking to the pan, they can be deglazed with a splash of the heavy cream before adding the rest of the ingredients.
To create a velvety sauce, aim for a gentle simmer once the cream is added. High heat can cause the cream to separate, leading to a grainy texture. Stir the sauce frequently until it thickens and turns glossy, roughly 5-7 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can adjust it by adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Cooking Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Garlic and Tomatoes
Add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet, and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Make the Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce after sautéing the garlic and tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Pasta With Sun-Dried Tomatoes pairs beautifully with a light side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. To bring it up a notch, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of spice or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness right before serving. These finishing touches can elevate the overall experience and make the meal feel more dynamic.
For those looking to bulk up their meal, you can incorporate vegetables such as spinach or arugula. Add them to the skillet during the final stages of the cooking process, letting them wilt into the sauce for extra nutrients and color. This not only enhances flavor but also adds a beautiful presentation to your dish.
Make-Ahead and Storage
This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can cook a large batch and store individual portions in airtight containers for up to three days in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of cream or pasta water to restore the sauce's consistency, which can thicken upon chilling. Microwave on medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
If you want to make this dish in advance for a gathering, consider preparing the pasta and sauce separately. This way, you can combine them just before serving to ensure the pasta retains its texture and each ingredient’s flavor balance is fresh and vibrant.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute penne with any pasta of your choice, like fettuccine or spaghetti.
→ Is it possible to make this dish lighter?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.
→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just cook the pasta right before serving.
→ What can I serve with this pasta?
It pairs wonderfully with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Chicken Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes
Created by: Xenia Radcliffe
Recipe Type: Everyday Meals
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet, and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Extra Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce after sautéing the garlic and tomatoes.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g