Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a luscious dish featuring juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and penne, all enveloped in a rich, garlicky cream sauce. This Italian-American favorite is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a casual dinner with friends, offering a comforting and flavorful experience in every bite.

Merken

The secret to this dish's depth is the combination of tender chicken strips seasoned with Italian herbs and the intense flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. By using the oil from the tomato jar, you infuse the entire sauce with a concentrated aroma that elevates the pasta to restaurant-quality standards.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) penne pasta
• Chicken: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 400 g / 14 oz), cut into bite-sized strips
• Seasoning: 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs
• Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil (use oil from the sun-dried tomatoes jar if available), 3 cloves garlic, minced, 100 g (3.5 oz) sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), sliced, 250 ml (1 cup) heavy cream, 60 ml (1/4 cup) chicken broth, 40 g (1/3 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional), salt and black pepper to taste
• Garnish: Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, and extra grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.

Step 3

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 4

Add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil to the same skillet. Sauté the garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5

Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.

Step 6

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, scraping any browned bits from the pan.

Step 7

Add Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 8

Return chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.

Step 9

Add cooked penne to the skillet and toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

Step 10

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, remember to reserve some of the pasta water before draining; the starch in the water helps the creamy sauce cling perfectly to the penne. Utilizing the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar for sautéing adds an extra layer of savory intensity to the chicken and garlic.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily adapt this dish by substituting penne with other shapes like fusilli or rigatoni. For added complexity, try using smoked chicken or stirring in a handful of fresh baby spinach during the final tossing of the pasta to add color and nutrients.

Serviervorschläge

This rich and savory pasta pairs exceptionally well with a crisp white wine. Consider serving it alongside a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to balance the creamy sauce and tangy tomatoes.

Merken

Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting a small gathering, this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta offers a perfect balance of comfort and sophistication. Enjoy the combination of textures and the vibrant Italian-American flavors that make this dish a standout favorite.