Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that elevates any meal. With tender pieces of chicken, rich sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy cheese sauce, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Its simplicity makes it a go-to recipe for busy families, while the vibrant taste will impress your guests. Enjoy the comforting warmth and satisfaction that this pasta brings to your table.

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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
• Add Fresh Herbs
• Pair with Garlic Bread
• Include a Salad
• Top with Cheese
• 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 other types of pasta?
• How do I make this dish healthier?
• Can I add vegetables to Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?
• What’s a good side dish for 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 creamy cheeses creates an unforgettable taste.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or as a side for gatherings; pairs well with salads or garlic bread.
• Customizable Ingredients: Easily swap out proteins or add seasonal veggies to suit your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, ensuring everyone will enjoy their meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and creating the creamy sauce without needing multiple pans.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A good-sized pot ensures even cooking of the pasta, preventing clumps.
• Chef’s knife: Essential for chopping ingredients efficiently, making prep work quick and easy.

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
• 4 oz sun-dried tomatoes
• 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.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over low-medium heat.
– Add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
– Cook for about 3 minutes until slightly browned.
– Remove only the tomatoes and set them aside; leave the garlic oil mixture in the skillet.
– Chop the cooked tomatoes into smaller pieces and set aside.

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 and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Prepare pasta according to package directions. Drain 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.
– Bring mixture to a light boil while stirring constantly.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add cooked pasta to sauce, stirring until well combined.
– Mix in cooked chicken and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.

Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Serving creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, consider these serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for an aromatic and colorful touch.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a burst of freshness and brightens the presentation.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping in the rich sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Melted cheese on garlic bread adds extra flavor and indulgence.

Include a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crunchy croutons complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.

Top with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over each serving for added depth and flavor.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta gives a tangy twist that pairs well with sun-dried tomatoes.

How to Perfect Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Creating the perfect creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh sun-dried tomatoes and high-quality cheeses for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta al dente so it maintains a nice texture when combined with the sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook and adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes according to your preference.
• Mix Cheeses for Flavor Depth: Combine different cheeses like mozzarella and Asiago to enhance the creaminess and flavor complexity.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes helps flavors meld together beautifully.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

To round off your meal, consider pairing creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta with these delightful side dishes. Each option complements the flavors of the pasta while adding variety to your dining experience.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy crunch that contrasts well with creamy textures.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add sweetness and earthy flavors that enhance your meal.
3. Bruschetta: Crispy bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes makes for a light and flavorful appetizer.
4. Antipasto Platter: An antipasto platter filled with olives, cured meats, and cheeses offers diverse tastes before diving into your main dish.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can be a comforting addition that pairs well with any Italian-inspired meal.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve spiralized zucchini noodles alongside or mixed into your creamy pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to blandness. Ensure you use salt, pepper, and spices for a flavorful base.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions closely and aim for al dente.
• Neglecting the sauce consistency: If your sauce is too thick or thin, it won’t cling well to the pasta. Adjust with more cream or broth to achieve the right balance.
• Forgetting to reserve pasta water: This water adds starch and helps thicken your sauce. Always save some before draining.
• Not incorporating the ingredients properly: Mixing in chicken and sun-dried tomatoes at the end ensures even distribution throughout the pasta.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for best quality.

Freezing Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best consumed within 2–3 months for optimal flavor.

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 in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet. Add a splash of cream or broth if necessary.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape will work well, such as fettuccine or penne. Just adjust cooking times based on the type you choose.

How do I make this dish healthier?

You can substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a lower-fat cream alternative to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor.

Can I add vegetables to Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can enhance both nutrition and flavor. Sauté them along with garlic.

What’s a good side dish for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?

A light salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this rich main course, balancing flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that’s both comforting and versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. We encourage you to try this recipe for a satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends!

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