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This quick and flavorful sun-dried tomato chicken pasta brings together tender chicken and rich, creamy sauce in just 30 minutes. It’s a perfect weeknight meal when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
I first made this recipe on a rushed weeknight and was amazed at how the creamy sauce and bright sun-dried tomatoes elevated the dish. Now it’s a regular request at our table when we want something both easy and delicious.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta: choose your favorite gluten free or traditional variety
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: packed with intense sweetness and umami flavor sun-dried in oil if possible for richness
- 2 chicken breasts, diced: lean protein that cooks quickly and soaks up the sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: for sautéing use extra virgin for best aroma
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: adds a fragrant punch and depth
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: forms the savory base of the sauce homemade if you have it
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: brings creaminess and smooth texture can substitute Greek yogurt for lighter version
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: sharp and salty, key for the rich sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste: enhances all flavors
- Fresh basil for garnish: brightens the dish with a fresh herbal note
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base and ensures juicy chicken pieces.
- Add Garlic and Tomatoes:
- Stir in minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook together for 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and tomatoes soften slightly. This releases their flavors into the oil.
- Simmer with Broth:
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly for 3 to 4 minutes, concentrating the savory taste and starting the sauce base.
- Create the Creamy Sauce:
- Add heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, approximately 3 to 5 minutes. The cheese melts to enrich the sauce and give it delicious body.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Drain cooked pasta according to package instructions and toss it into the skillet with the sauce. Mix thoroughly to coat every strand or morsel with the flavorful sauce.
- Season and Garnish:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Finish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and bright herbal flavor before serving.
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Sun-dried tomatoes are my favorite ingredient in this dish. Their concentrated flavor turns a simple pasta into something special. I remember making this meal for friends who could not believe it came together so quickly yet tasted so indulgent.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a tangier, lighter sauce but add it off heat to prevent curdling. You can swap chicken broth with vegetable broth to make it vegetarian friendly by omitting the chicken and adding mushrooms for umami.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a simple mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing balance. Garlic bread or crusty gluten free rolls make great companions to sop up the creamy sauce.
Cultural Context
Sun-dried tomatoes are a classic ingredient in Italian cooking, especially from regions like Tuscany. Their preservation method intensifies flavor, fitting perfectly in simple pasta dishes like this one that highlight fresh ingredients with bold taste.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Medium-width pastas like penne or fusilli hold the creamy sauce well, but spaghetti or fettuccine are excellent alternatives.
- → Can I substitute heavy cream for a lighter option?
Yes, Greek yogurt makes a great lighter alternative that adds creaminess without heaviness.
- → How do I prevent chicken from drying out?
Cook chicken over medium heat until just browned and cooked through, avoiding overcooking to retain juiciness.
- → What adds extra flavor to the sauce?
Garlic and sun-dried tomatoes provide bold, savory notes, complemented by Parmesan and fresh basil for freshness.
- → Can vegetables be added to this dish?
Indeed, spinach or bell peppers can be stirred in during cooking to boost nutrition and texture.