Sun-dried tomatoes bring a burst of intense, savory flavor to any dish, and this sun-dried tomato chicken pasta recipe is no exception. This simple yet elegant pasta dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal. It’s surprisingly easy to make and offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes. Let's dive into the delicious details!
What Makes Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta So Delicious?
The magic lies in the combination of ingredients. The sweet and tangy sun-dried tomatoes provide a deep, umami flavor that complements the savory chicken beautifully. The creamy sauce, whether you choose a simple cream sauce or a lighter alternative, coats the pasta perfectly, creating a rich and satisfying experience. The addition of fresh herbs like basil or oregano adds a layer of aromatic freshness that elevates the dish even further.
What Kind of Pasta Works Best?
While you can use almost any pasta shape you like, some work better than others with this recipe. Longer pasta shapes like linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti are excellent choices as they hold the sauce well. However, shorter pasta like penne or rotini also work wonderfully, providing a more robust texture.
How to Make the Perfect Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences. Here's a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or substitute with half-and-half or milk for a lighter sauce)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (or oregano)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package directions.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in the basil (or oregano), salt, and pepper.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss to coat.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and basil, if desired.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and replace it with your favorite vegetarian protein source. Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant would work wonderfully, adding both flavor and texture. You could also add chickpeas or white beans for extra heartiness.
Is This Dish Suitable for Meal Prep?
Yes! This sun-dried tomato chicken pasta makes excellent leftovers. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or milk to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick.
What are Some Variations of Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility! Experiment with different cheeses, herbs, and spices to create your own unique variations. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes gives it a spicy kick, while a squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness.
What are Some Side Dishes that Pair Well with Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?
A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette complements this rich pasta dish perfectly. Garlic bread or crusty bread is another excellent option for soaking up the delicious sauce.
By following this recipe and incorporating your own creative twists, you can create a truly unforgettable sun-dried tomato chicken pasta experience. Enjoy!
