Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is an irresistible dish that brings together tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luxurious cheese sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners, date nights, or a cozy meal anytime you crave comfort food. The combination of flavors is truly unique, making it a standout choice for various occasions.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pasta
• For the Chicken
• For the Sauce
• REMEMBER
• How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
• Step 1: Season the Chicken
• Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes
• Step 3: Cook the Chicken
• Step 4: Cook the Pasta
• Step 5: Make the Sauce
• Step 6: Combine Everything
• How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
• With Fresh Herbs
• Accompanied by Bread
• On a Bed of Greens
• As Part of a Meal
• How to Perfect Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
• Reheating Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?
• Can I use different pasta shapes?
• How do I make this dish healthier?
• Can I customize the flavors?
• What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The blend of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and creamy cheese results in a rich taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite veggies or substituting proteins.
• One-Pot Wonder: Most of the cooking happens in one skillet, which means less cleanup for you!
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its comforting flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to impress family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta, having the right tools on hand will simplify your cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pasta pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and making the sauce all in one pan, enhancing flavor.
• Pasta pot: Allows you to cook pasta efficiently while ensuring it doesn’t stick together.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping ingredients quick and easy, saving time during prep.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 10 oz pasta

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken, sliced into 2-inch pieces
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Adobo (red top)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika

For the Sauce

• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 oz sun-dried tomatoes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Asiago cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon basil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ cup beef broth

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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REMEMBER

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How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Season the sliced chicken with salt, pepper, onion powder, Adobo, and paprika. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In a large skillet over low-medium heat, heat olive oil.
– Add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
– Cook for about 3 minutes until slightly browned.
– Remove only the tomatoes from the skillet and set them aside, keeping the garlic oil mixture in place.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet.
– Cook on high heat for about 2 minutes per side until golden brown.
– Remove from skillet once cooked through and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Prepare the pasta according to package directions. Drain well and set aside.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet:
– Add heavy cream, whole milk, basil, red pepper flakes, and beef broth.
– Stir in mozzarella and Asiago cheese until melted. Bring to a light boil while stirring constantly.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add cooked pasta to the sauce in the skillet.
– Stir until well combined with sauce.
– Mix in cooked chicken and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.

Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley for an extra touch! Enjoy your delicious Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Serving is a delightful experience. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley Garnish: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for added color and freshness.
• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add extra red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Accompanied by Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: A sliced baguette makes a perfect side for dipping into the sauce.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Greens Salad: Serve over a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing contrast.
• Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette pairs nicely with the rich pasta.

As Part of a Meal

• With Grilled Vegetables: Complement the dish with seasoned grilled vegetables for added texture and nutrition.
• As a Casserole: Transform leftovers into a casserole by layering with cheese and baking until bubbly.

How to Perfect Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Perfecting this recipe can elevate your cooking skills. Here are some helpful tips:

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Select fresh sun-dried tomatoes and good-quality cheese for better flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until golden brown to keep it juicy and tender.
• Adjust Creaminess: Modify the ratio of heavy cream to whole milk based on your desired creaminess.
• Add More Veggies: Include spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor depth.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before serving to adjust seasoning according to your preference.
• Let it Sit Before Serving: Allow the dish to rest briefly after mixing; this helps flavors meld beautifully.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes with this recipe can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with garlic oil brings brightness to your plate.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing adds crunch and tang.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil provides a fresh flavor contrast.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers vibrant color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
5. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil skewers are refreshing bites that complement the pasta well.
6. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): For a low-carb option, serve zoodles alongside or under the pasta for extra veggies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta even better.

• Neglecting the Chicken Seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with your spices to enhance taste.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite.
• Ignoring the Cheese Mixing: Failing to mix cheeses thoroughly may result in clumps. Stir well to achieve a smooth and creamy sauce.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients can affect flavor. Use fresh sun-dried tomatoes and quality cheese for the best results.
• Skipping the Sauce Simmering: Not allowing the sauce to simmer can prevent flavors from developing. Let it bubble gently for a few minutes before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can last up to 2–3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of milk if needed, until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a rich dish made with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a velvety cheese sauce mixed with pasta.

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes! While fettuccine is delicious, you can substitute it with penne or rotini for great results.

How do I make this dish healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using whole grain pasta and reducing the amount of cheese or substituting with lighter options.

Can I customize the flavors?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor in your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is not just comforting; it’s versatile too! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes by adding vegetables or using different cheeses. Give this delightful dish a try—you won’t be disappointed!