This creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is a delightful dish that effortlessly blends comfort food appeal with sophisticated flavors. It's a perfect weeknight meal, easy enough for a busy schedule yet impressive enough for a dinner party. This recipe focuses on maximizing flavor and texture, ensuring a truly satisfying culinary experience. We'll cover everything from ingredient selection to cooking techniques, so let's dive in!
What Makes This Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe Special?
This isn't your average creamy chicken pasta. We're elevating the classic by incorporating the bright, tangy burst of sun-dried tomatoes and using techniques to ensure a rich, creamy sauce without relying on excessive cream. We'll focus on building layers of flavor, from the sautéed chicken and garlic to the perfectly cooked pasta and the final creamy sauce. The result? A dish that's both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped (reserve the oil!)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or a combination of heavy cream and milk for a lighter sauce)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
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Create the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the reserved sun-dried tomato oil, chicken broth, and heavy cream (and milk, if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
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Combine and Finish: Reduce heat to low, stir in the Parmesan cheese, cooked chicken, and cooked pasta. Toss to combine. Add a little pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency of the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh basil.
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Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rotini, fettuccine, farfalle – almost any pasta shape will work wonderfully in this recipe.
What if I don't have sun-dried tomatoes?
While sun-dried tomatoes add a unique depth of flavor, you can substitute them with 1 cup of chopped fresh tomatoes or a mix of dried and fresh herbs like oregano and basil.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving for the best results.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and add your favorite vegetables, such as roasted vegetables, spinach, or mushrooms. You might want to add a splash of vegetable broth for extra flavor.
Can I freeze this dish?
This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key to the overall texture of the dish.
- Use good quality Parmesan cheese: The flavor of the Parmesan cheese will significantly impact the taste of the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and basil to your preference.
- Garnish generously: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil adds a beautiful touch and enhances the flavor.
This creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is a simple yet elegant dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Enjoy!
