Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a delectable dish that brings together tender chicken, flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious cheese sauce. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, this pasta dish is comforting, satisfying, and sure to impress your guests. With its rich taste and creamy texture, it stands out as a favorite in any recipe collection.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Pasta
• Chicken
• Aromatics
• Seasonings
• Sauce Components
• Herbs & Broth
• 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
• Plating Suggestions
• Accompaniments
• Wine Pairing
• Leftovers
• 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
• What makes Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta so special?
• Can I use different pasta types for this recipe?
• How can I customize Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Can I make this dish vegetarian?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in around 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy cheeses creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy this pasta on its own or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a dish that everyone loves, making it great for gatherings or family dinners.
• Customizable: Easily modify the ingredients to cater to dietary preferences or use what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items to help you create this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: This allows for even cooking of the chicken and sauce without overcrowding.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Essential for preparing the pasta perfectly al dente before combining it with the sauce.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

Pasta

• 10 oz pasta

Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken, sliced into 2-inch pieces

Aromatics

• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 4 oz sun-dried tomatoes

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon Adobo (red top)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika

Sauce Components

• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Asiago cheese, shredded

Herbs & Broth

• 1 tablespoon basil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ cup beef broth

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, cooking for about 3 minutes until slightly browned.
* Remove only the tomatoes and set them aside, leaving 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 the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Prepare the 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 to a light boil while stirring constantly.

Step 6: Combine Everything

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

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

How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

This creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta is not only delightful but also versatile. You can customize your serving style to enhance the dining experience.

Plating Suggestions

• Use a large, shallow bowl to create an inviting presentation.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.

Accompaniments

• Garlic Bread – Serve warm, buttery garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.

Wine Pairing

• Chardonnay – A crisp Chardonnay pairs well, balancing the creaminess of the dish.
• Pinot Noir – For red wine lovers, a light Pinot Noir enhances the flavors without overwhelming them.

Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Getting this dish just right involves some careful preparation and technique. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and quality sun-dried tomatoes elevate the flavor profile significantly.
• Don’t Overcook Chicken – Cook chicken until golden brown but still juicy for optimal texture.
• Adjust Creaminess – Feel free to tweak the amount of heavy cream based on your preference for richness.
• Taste as You Go – Regularly taste your sauce and adjust seasoning accordingly to achieve your desired flavor balance.
• Pasta Al Dente – Cook pasta until al dente for the best texture, as it will continue cooking when added to the sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Complementing your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the creamy pasta.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy contrast with their natural sweetness.
3. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli brings color and nutrition, making it a great accompaniment.
4. Baked Zucchini Fries – Crispy baked zucchini fries offer a fun finger-food option that pairs well with pasta.
5. Caprese Salad – The combination of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil mirrors flavors in the main dish while being refreshing.
6. Garlic Parmesan Knots – Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic and parmesan make for delicious bites alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to go wrong when making Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not properly seasoning the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken well before cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long will make it mushy. Follow package instructions closely and aim for al dente texture.
• Ignoring the garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, affecting the dish’s flavor. Cook it on low heat and keep an eye on it.
• Using cold dairy: Adding cold cream or milk can cause the sauce to separate. Ensure your dairy ingredients are at room temperature before use.
• Not reserving pasta water: This starchy water helps adjust sauce consistency. Always save a cup of pasta water before draining.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

• Use a freezer-safe container for best results.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to label it with the date.

Reheating Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring frequently. Add a splash of cream or milk if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta so special?

This dish combines rich flavors from sun-dried tomatoes with tender chicken and creamy cheese, making it truly comforting and satisfying.

Can I use different pasta types for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute any pasta shape you prefer! Fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free options work great.

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

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. You can also adjust spice levels by modifying red pepper flakes.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely without compromising flavor.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with grilled vegetables or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is not only rich and flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize this dish to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to impress!