Before diving into the creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta, let’s consider what to serve alongside it.
A light, crisp salad can balance the rich flavors of the dish, providing a refreshing contrast. Consider a classic Caesar salad or a rainbow garden salad with fresh greens, cucumbers, and a splash of vinaigrette.
Garlic bread makes for a fantastic side too; its buttery crunch and garlicky aroma complement the pasta beautifully.
If you’re feeling adventurous, a side of grilled zucchini or asparagus adds a nice, smoky note. And for wine lovers, a chilled Pinot Grigio pairs well with this meal.
What is Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?
Creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a smooth sauce enhanced by the punchy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes.
The creaminess comes from heavy whipping cream, while the sun-dried tomatoes add depth and richness. A medley of herbs and spices rounds out the dish.
This recipe is straightforward, yet the flavors tell a much deeper story. Each bite is a celebration—a nod to Italian cooking’s love for simplicity mixed with bold flavors.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
Imagine a symphony of flavors on your palate. First, the earthy, slightly tangy notes of sun-dried tomatoes greet you. Then, the creaminess envelops your taste buds, offering a soothing counterbalance to the tomato’s bite.
The garlic and shallots bring aromatic warmth, while a hint of smoked paprika adds depth.
The herbs lend brightness, and the spinach introduces a fresh, vibrant crunch. Ultimately, a squeeze of lemon at the end brightens everything up, making your taste buds dance with joy.
What Makes This Recipe Different from Other Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?
So, what sets my creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta apart? It’s all in the details. Many recipes rely on store-bought sauces, which can lack personality. Instead, I prefer to craft the sauce from scratch, relying heavily on simple but impactful ingredients.
This dish uses sun-dried tomato pesto, which dreams of enveloping your taste buds in a cozy embrace.
Fresh Parmesan rounds out the flavors, creating a unique balance of richness and zest. Plus, using fresh spinach adds Not just color; it’s a healthy touch that keeps you feeling good.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather everything you need to create this mouth-watering dish:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium shallot, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 jar of sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomato pesto
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 teaspoons mixed Italian herbs
- Crushed red pepper flakes (to taste)
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 pound of your favorite short pasta
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your short pasta of choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water for later, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and sauté until it becomes translucent. This usually takes about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Push the shallots and garlic to the side of the skillet and add the diced chicken. Season with sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Cook until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink, about 7–10 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and tomato pesto. Let this cook for about 2 minutes. The heat should release wonderful flavors into the dish’s base.
Step 5: Pour in the Cream
Now, pour in the heavy whipping cream along with the Dijon mustard. Stir to combine, letting everything bubble away for about 5–7 minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly, clinging to the chicken and tomatoes.
Step 6: Incorporate Spinach and Pasta
Add in the fresh baby spinach, allowing it to wilt. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Then, gently toss the drained pasta into the skillet until every bite is enveloped in that creamy goodness.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
Finally, squeeze in the lemon juice and stir in the balsamic vinegar and Parmesan cheese. Taste, adjusting seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cheese if you fancy.
Tips on Making Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
- Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes. Their flavor will impact the entire dish. Look for those packed in oil for the best taste.
- Adjust the creaminess. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute some of the heavy cream with chicken broth or half-and-half.
- Add protein variations. If you’re not in the mood for chicken, shrimp works wonderfully with this dish.
- Vegetable add-ins. Don’t hesitate to toss in other favorite veggies, like mushrooms or bell peppers, for added color and nutrition.
- Flavor enhancements. A pinch of fresh basil or oregano at the end provides an extra flavor boost.
How Can I Store This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?
This dish is fantastic for meal prepping. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
What If the Items Are Not Available in Your Kitchen? Substitute Options for the Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: Replace with diced turkey or tofu, if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Both provide protein while altering the dish’s character subtly.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Try fresh tomatoes sautéed until they soften, or use canned diced tomatoes for a different twist. Just remember to adjust your cooking time accordingly.
- Heavy Cream: Coconut milk or cashew cream can stand in if you want a dairy-free version. They will change the flavor slightly but create a lovely creamy texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: You can use nutritional yeast for a vegan option, giving you that cheesy flavor without dairy.
Conclusion
Creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. When I cook this dish, I’m reminded of gatherings with friends, laughter, and hearty servings full of flavor and comfort.
It embodies warmth on a plate—simple ingredients transformed into something exceptional.
So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare yourself for a culinary adventure.
This creamy pasta dish invites not just your taste buds but also your heart to share the love of cooking and enjoying meals that bond families. Happy cooking!
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Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta – Hearty Food Ideas
Description
As the days warm up, my cravings shift. I find myself longing for comfort food that packs flavor without heavy preparation.
That’s where creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta enters the picture. This dish melds savory chicken with a zesty cream sauce, making it a hit in my home.
Have you ever taken a bite of pasta and felt that rush of warmth and satisfaction?
This dish does that for me. It whisks me away to sunny days and family gatherings, where laughter dances across the table. So let's break down why creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta is but a few ingredients away.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
-
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your short pasta of choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water for later, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
-
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and sauté until it becomes translucent. This usually takes about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
-
Push the shallots and garlic to the side of the skillet and add the diced chicken. Season with sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Cook until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink, about 7–10 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes
-
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and tomato pesto. Let this cook for about 2 minutes. The heat should release wonderful flavors into the dish’s base.
Step 5: Pour in the Cream
-
Now, pour in the heavy whipping cream along with the Dijon mustard. Stir to combine, letting everything bubble away for about 5–7 minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly, clinging to the chicken and tomatoes.
Step 6: Incorporate Spinach and Pasta
-
Add in the fresh baby spinach, allowing it to wilt. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Then, gently toss the drained pasta into the skillet until every bite is enveloped in that creamy goodness.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
-
Finally, squeeze in the lemon juice and stir in the balsamic vinegar and Parmesan cheese. Taste, adjusting seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cheese if you fancy.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 515kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 24.1g38%
- Saturated Fat 13.3g67%
- Trans Fat 0.1g
- Cholesterol 128mg43%
- Sodium 461mg20%
- Total Carbohydrate 49g17%
- Dietary Fiber 8g32%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 26g52%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes. Their flavor will impact the entire dish. Look for those packed in oil for the best taste.
- Adjust the creaminess. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute some of the heavy cream with chicken broth or half-and-half.
- Add protein variations. If you're not in the mood for chicken, shrimp works wonderfully with this dish.
- Vegetable add-ins. Don't hesitate to toss in other favorite veggies, like mushrooms or bell peppers, for added color and nutrition.
- Flavor enhancements. A pinch of fresh basil or oregano at the end provides an extra flavor boost.
