Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for a dish that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, then you absolutely have to try my creamy sun dried tomato chicken pasta! It’s a delightful combination of tender chicken, tangy sun dried tomatoes, and a luscious creamy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. I remember the first time I made this for my friends; the way their eyes lit up with every bite was priceless! It’s quick to whip up—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen, and you’ll be dreaming about it long after the last forkful is gone!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this creamy sun dried tomato chicken pasta shine! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 oz pasta: Any type works, but I love using fettuccine or penne for that perfect surface to hold the sauce.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced: Grilled or rotisserie chicken makes it super easy!
- 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped: Look for the jarred variety in oil for added flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This is what creates that rich, velvety sauce!
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated: Freshly grated is best for a creamier finish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives an aromatic kick—don’t skimp on this!
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing and extra flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always season to bring out the flavors!
- Fresh basil for garnish: A sprinkle of fresh basil at the end adds a pop of color and freshness.
With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’re all set to create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
How to Prepare Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
Making creamy sun dried tomato chicken pasta is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love how easy it is to whip up this delicious dish! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal in no time.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add your 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes for al dente. Remember, you don’t want it mushy! Keep an eye on it, and drain it when it’s perfectly tender. Save a splash of that pasta water; it can help loosen the sauce later!
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil’s shimmering, toss in 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds. You want to smell that gorgeous aroma wafting through your kitchen, but don’t walk away! Garlic can burn quickly, turning bitter, so keep stirring until it’s just golden.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring in the star players! Add in the 1/2 cup of chopped sun dried tomatoes and your 2 cups of diced cooked chicken. Stir everything together and let it mingle for a minute or two—this is where the flavors start to blend! You’ll know it’s ready when everything’s heated through and the tomatoes are slightly softened.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, and bring it to a gentle simmer. You want it to bubble softly, not aggressively! Stir in 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese until it melts into that luscious sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste—this is your chance to really make those flavors pop!
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Finally, toss your cooked pasta right into the skillet with the sauce. Mix it up well, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated in that creamy goodness. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of your reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency. Serve it hot, topped with fresh basil for that extra touch!
Tips for Success
To take your creamy sun dried tomato chicken pasta to the next level, here are a few tips that I swear by! First, don’t skip on the quality of your sun dried tomatoes—they really make a difference. If you want a lighter version, feel free to swap the heavy cream for half-and-half; it’ll still be delicious! Also, remember to reserve that splash of pasta water; it’s a game changer for adjusting sauce thickness. When sautéing garlic, keep a close eye to avoid burning—it can ruin the dish! Lastly, taste as you go; seasoning is everything, and it’s the key to making those flavors pop!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to customize your creamy sun dried tomato chicken pasta! For a twist, try using shrimp or mushrooms instead of chicken for a different protein punch. If you’re a fan of greens, toss in some spinach or kale just before adding the cream for a boost of color and nutrition. You can also switch up the pasta; penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options work beautifully! Want to add a little zing? A splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavors even more. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers of your creamy sun dried tomato chicken pasta is super simple! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge, where it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, I recommend reheating it gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or extra cream to loosen the sauce and keep it from drying out. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through, and voilà—dinner is served again, just as creamy and delicious as the first time!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose, so this is just a general guideline. Each serving of creamy sun dried tomato chicken pasta typically contains around 650 calories, with about 40 grams of fat and 30 grams of protein. You’ll also find approximately 50 grams of carbohydrates and 4 grams of sugar in each serving. It’s a hearty dish that’s satisfying and delicious, but always remember to adjust based on your ingredients for the best accuracy!
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh sun dried tomatoes instead of jarred ones? Absolutely! Just make sure to soak them in hot water or oil to soften them up before adding them to the dish.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? If you want a lighter option, half-and-half works great, or you can use a blend of Greek yogurt and milk for a tangy twist!
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare all the components ahead and combine them just before serving. It’s a great way to save time on busy nights!
Is this recipe gluten-free? If you use gluten-free pasta, then yes! This creamy sun dried tomato chicken pasta can easily fit into a gluten-free diet.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat gently to keep that creamy texture!
For more delicious pasta recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe. For nutritional information on pasta dishes, you can visit Healthline.
Print
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta for Blissful Nights
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy sun dried tomato chicken pasta is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, sun dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce over pasta.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add sun dried tomatoes and cooked chicken, stirring to combine.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in parmesan cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce.
- Serve garnished with fresh basil.
Notes
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Adjust the amount of sun dried tomatoes according to your taste.
- This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: creamy sun dried tomato chicken pasta
