Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Delight

Want a dish that bursts with flavor and is easy to make? Welcome to Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Delight! This recipe combines tender chicken, rich cream, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes for a meal you won't forget. In this post, I'll share simple steps, helpful tips, and variations to suit your taste. Let's dive in and create a pasta dish that will impress everyone at your table!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients for Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

- 8 oz (225 g) penne pasta

- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil, drained)

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 1 cup chicken broth

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon dried basil

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Substitutions and Modifications

You can swap penne pasta for any pasta shape you love, like fettuccine or farfalle. If you want a lighter meal, use chicken thighs instead of breast. For a vegan twist, replace chicken with chickpeas and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, try roasted red peppers for a similar flavor.

Nutritional Information

This dish serves four and packs a punch of flavor. Each serving has about 600 calories. It includes around 30 grams of protein, making it filling. The heavy cream adds richness, while sun-dried tomatoes bring antioxidants. Each serving has a nice balance of carbs and healthy fats. If you need to watch your sodium, adjust the salt added to suit your needs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

First, fill a large pot with water. Add a good pinch of salt to the water. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add 8 ounces of penne pasta. Cook it according to package directions until it is al dente, which is firm but cooked. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. This pasta will soak up the sauce later.

Preparing the Chicken

Next, take 1 pound of chicken breast and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-7 minutes until the chicken turns golden brown and is cooked through. Make sure to stir the chicken for even cooking. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Making the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it smells good. Be careful not to let it burn. Now, add 1 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and mix. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and turn the heat to a gentle simmer. This helps to blend the flavors. After it starts to simmer, lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Add 1 teaspoon of dried basil and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Let the sauce simmer for 4-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce. Finally, add the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce

To make a rich, creamy sauce, start with heavy cream. It adds body and smoothness. Use low heat when you mix in the cream. This keeps it from curdling. Stir well as it simmers. The sauce should thicken slightly after a few minutes. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. For extra flavor, add more sun-dried tomatoes. They will make the sauce burst with taste.

Cooking Tips for Flavor Enhancement

Use fresh garlic when cooking. It enhances the dish's aroma and taste. Be careful not to burn the garlic; cook it just until fragrant. Add dried herbs like basil and oregano for depth. These herbs blend well with the sun-dried tomatoes. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking as you cook. This step is key for a balanced flavor. Always taste your sauce before serving. It helps ensure your dish is just right.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy pasta hot for the best taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. The basil adds freshness and a nice aroma. Pair it with a side salad or crusty bread. This combination makes for a delightful meal. You can also sprinkle more Parmesan cheese on top before serving. This extra touch will impress your guests. Enjoy this dish with family or friends for a cozy dinner.

Variations

Vegetarian Alternatives

You can easily make a vegetarian version of this dish. Swap the chicken for chickpeas or mushrooms. Both options add a hearty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the flavors rich. Don't forget to add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.

Adding Vegetables

Boost the nutrition by adding your favorite veggies. Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini work well. You can sauté them with the garlic before adding the sun-dried tomatoes. This adds color and flavor while making the dish more filling.

Spicy Kick Options

If you love heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. Start with a pinch and taste as you go. You can also use spicy sun-dried tomatoes if you want a flavor boost. Another fun option is to mix in some jalapeños for extra spice.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta fresh, use an airtight container. Allow the pasta to cool first. Once cooled, place it in the container and seal it tightly. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This helps keep the flavors intact while preventing spoilage.

Reheating Instructions

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, heat them gently. You can use a skillet or microwave. If using a skillet, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to prevent drying. Heat on low, stirring often until warmed through. In the microwave, heat in short intervals, about one minute at a time. Stir between intervals for even heating.

Freezing Tips

Freezing this dish is a great option for longer storage. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as the sauce may expand. Seal tightly and label with the date. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use different pasta shapes. I suggest fusilli, farfalle, or spaghetti. Each type will hold the sauce well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time. Check the package for al dente instructions.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can make this dish dairy-free. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. For cheese, try a dairy-free Parmesan style. This keeps the creamy texture while meeting dietary needs.

What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

If you need a substitute, try roasted red peppers. They add a sweet, tangy flavor. You can also use fresh tomatoes, but cook them down to remove excess water. This keeps your sauce rich and thick.

This blog post covered a delicious and creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta. I shared the key ingredients, tasty substitutions, and the nutritional facts. You learned how to cook the pasta, prepare the chicken, and make an amazing sauce.

I also provided tips for perfecting the sauce and suggested serving ideas. You can adapt the recipe for vegetarians or add some heat as you like. Finally, I explained how to store leftovers and answered common questions.

Now, you can create this dish with ease and confidence. Enjoy your cooking!