Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish stands out with its creamy sauce and rich sun-dried tomatoes. It’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights while still feeling indulgent enough for special gatherings.

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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
• For Garnish
• 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
• Pair with Garlic Bread
• Add a Fresh Salad
• Top with Fresh Herbs
• Serve with Parmesan Cheese
• Include Roasted Vegetables
• 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
• Can I use different types of pasta in Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?
• How can I customize my Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• What can I serve with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and cheesy goodness creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for a fast weeknight meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins according to what you have on hand.
• Comforting Dish: The creamy texture makes this pasta the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish and watch your guests’ eyes light up at the beautiful colors and rich aroma.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready means you’ll enjoy the process even more!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large semi-deep skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Serving spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large semi-deep skillet: This is essential for sautéing the garlic and chicken evenly without overcrowding.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A sturdy pot ensures that your pasta cooks perfectly al dente.
• Cutting board & Knife: These are vital for quickly chopping your chicken and sun-dried tomatoes with ease.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 10 oz pasta

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken, sliced into 2-inch pieces
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Adobo (red top)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika

For the Sauce

• 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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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 for later use.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In a large semi-deep skillet, heat olive oil over low-medium heat.
* Add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet.
* Cook for about 3 minutes until they are slightly browned.
* Remove only the tomatoes from the skillet; set them aside while leaving the garlic oil mixture in the pan.

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 the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Prepare your pasta according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet used for cooking chicken:
* Add heavy cream, whole milk, basil, red pepper flakes, and beef broth.
* Stir in mozzarella and Asiago cheese until well combined.
* Bring to a light boil while stirring constantly.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add cooked pasta to your cheese sauce mixture.
* Stir until well combined.
* Mix in cooked chicken and chopped sun-dried tomatoes until evenly distributed.

Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top! Enjoy this comforting meal that is sure to please everyone at your table.

How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm and crispy garlic bread complements the creamy pasta perfectly, adding a delightful crunch.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brings freshness to the meal.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Basil or Parsley: Garnishing your pasta with fresh basil or parsley enhances its flavor and presentation.

Serve with Parmesan Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese on top adds an extra layer of richness to the dish.

Include Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Pairing your pasta with roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers adds color and nutrients.

How to Perfect Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for maximum flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; adjust salt, pepper, and spices based on your preference.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente for the right texture when combined with the sauce.
• Let the Sauce Thicken: Allow the sauce to simmer gently until it thickens for a creamier consistency.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing different cheeses like goat cheese or parmesan for unique flavors.
• Add Protein Variations: For variety, consider adding shrimp or sausage for an alternative protein option.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

When serving Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan cheese adds classic flavors.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice provides a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs well with any pasta dish.
4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing appetizer.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs offer a delightful bite alongside your pasta.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil creates a bright starter before the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta even more delightful. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrect Chicken Seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken properly can lead to bland flavor. Make sure to use salt, pepper, onion powder, and paprika generously.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta for too long can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions closely for al dente texture.
• Skipping the Cheese Blending Step: If you don’t stir in the cheese gradually, it may clump together. Add it slowly while stirring for a smooth sauce.
• Neglecting to Reserve Pasta Water: Not saving some pasta water can limit the sauce’s creaminess. Reserve a cup of water before draining to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients can affect taste. Opt for high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and cheeses for richer flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of pasta in Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with various pasta shapes like penne or fettuccine based on your preference.

How can I customize my Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

What can I serve with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?

Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

This creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta is not only rich and flavorful but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to impress!