Elevate your weeknight dinners with this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta, a dish that combines tender chicken, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich, velvety sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who crave comfort food with a gourmet touch. With the addition of spinach, it’s a well-rounded meal that’s both delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this pasta dish is bound to impress with its bold flavors and creamy texture.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound (450 grams) of chicken breast, diced into small chunks
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pasta: Start by boiling the pasta as directed on the package. After achieving an al dente texture, drain it and set it aside. To keep the pasta from clumping, you can lightly coat it with a splash of olive oil.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, or until it’s browned on all sides and cooked through.
- Sauté the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and the tomatoes have softened slightly.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Heat the mixture until it begins to bubble gently, then lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Mix in the shredded Parmesan cheese, along with the dried basil and oregano. Continue to stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine the Chicken and Pasta: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, stirring to coat it with the sauce. If you’re using spinach, stir it in at this point, allowing it to wilt into the sauce. Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash more chicken broth or pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, rich sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious cream sauce makes every bite a delight. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen. It’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy, leaving you and your loved ones asking for seconds. Enjoy this pasta as a hearty weeknight meal or impress guests with its gourmet appeal.