Sundried Tomato Chicken Pasta
When I think of comfort food, Sundried Tomato Chicken Pasta always comes to mind. It’s a dish that has become a staple in my home, especially after a long day of work. I remember the first time I made it; I thought I was just throwing together some leftover ingredients, but what resulted was a delightful medley of flavors that filled my kitchen with an inviting aroma. The blend of tender chicken, rich cream, and tangy sundried tomatoes creates a beautiful harmony on the palate. It’s perfect for family dinners or impressing friends during a casual gathering.
This recipe is all about the ease of preparation without sacrificing taste. Whether it’s a Friday night or a special occasion, I’ve learned that this dish makes everyone feel right at home. You can watch as those around you dig in, savoring every bite, and it’s clear they’re enjoying it as much as I do. The beauty of Sundried Tomato Chicken Pasta lies not only in its flavors but in its ability to bring people together. There’s something special about sharing a meal that truly fills the heart.
Recipe Snapshot
35 mins
10 mins
25 mins
Medium
550 kcal
35 g
Gluten-Free
28 g
cast iron pan
Why You Need This Sundried Tomato Chicken Pasta
Comforting and Indulgent
I can’t stress enough how comforting this dish is. Each bite feels like a warm hug. The creamy sauce envelops the pasta in a way that makes you want to come back for seconds.
Quick and Easy
Life can be hectic, but Sundried Tomato Chicken Pasta simplifies dinner. It’s a quick recipe that can be whipped up in about thirty-five minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile Ingredients
You can easily tweak this dish based on what you have in your pantry. If you’re out of spinach, you can add kale or even some frozen peas to the mix.
Rich in Flavor
The combination of sundried tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and flavorful experience. It’s a fantastic way to elevate simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal.
Perfect for Sharing
Great food is meant to be shared. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves with a satisfied smile.
Balanced Meal
With chicken and spinach, you’re getting protein and nutrients, making this dish a more rounded meal. I often serve it with a simple green salad for a complete experience.
What Goes Into Sundried Tomato Chicken Pasta
The ingredients for Sundried Tomato Chicken Pasta are both simple and essential. They work beautifully together, creating a rich, creamy sauce that clings to each piece of pasta. Sundried tomatoes add a concentrated burst of flavor, while heavy cream lends a luxurious texture to the dish. The chicken provides protein, making the meal hearty, and the spinach adds a touch of freshness and color.
- 7 oz of sundried tomatoes in oil: Packed with flavor, these tomatoes bring a sweet and tangy essence to the dish.
- 1 lb of chicken (cubed, uncooked): Tender pieces of chicken add substance and protein to this delicious pasta.
- 2 tsp of Italian seasoning (divided): This blend of herbs enhances the flavor profile, making everything taste more vibrant.
- 1 tsp of salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients.
- ½ tsp of paprika: Adds a touch of warmth and color.
- ¼ tsp of red pepper flakes: Introduces a slight kick that elevates the dish.
- ¼ tsp of ground black pepper: A staple seasoning that adds depth.
- ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese: This cheese adds creaminess and a sharp flavor.
- 2 tbsp of butter: For sautéing and to add richness.
- ¼ cup of onion (diced): Provides a base flavor and sweetness when cooked.
- 1 tbsp of minced garlic: Garlic is a flavor powerhouse that enhances everything it touches.
- 2 cups of water: Used to cook the pasta and create a saucy consistency.
- 1 cup of heavy whipping cream: Creates the creamy sauce that brings everything together.
- 8 oz of uncooked pasta: The pasta serves as the perfect base to soak up all those flavors.
- 1 cup of fresh spinach leaves: Adds freshness and a pop of color to the dish.
- ¼ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese: For topping, providing a delicious cheesy finish.
The Process for Making Sundried Tomato Chicken Pasta
Making Sundried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. It’s all about layering flavors and enjoying the simplicity of cooking. Let’s dive into the delightful steps that will bring this dish to life!
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and add the oil from the sundried tomatoes. Once hot, toss in the cubed chicken. The oil will help keep the chicken moist and prevent sticking.
Next, season the chicken generously with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, paprika, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Give everything a good mix, ensuring each piece of chicken is evenly coated.
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Cook the chicken until it turns a lovely golden brown. You’re looking for a nice sear on all sides, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Once browned, sprinkle the chicken with grated Parmesan and remove it from the skillet. Set it aside for later.
In the same skillet, add butter, followed by the onion and minced garlic. Sauté this mixture until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, usually about 5 minutes.
After the onions are tender, sprinkle in the remaining 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Stir to combine, allowing the seasoning to infuse the butter and the onions.
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Now, pour in the water and add the heavy whipping cream. Stir well to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Once boiling, add the uncooked pasta to the skillet. Stir it in so that it’s fully submerged in the sauce and cook according to the package directions, usually around 8 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
When the pasta reaches your desired tenderness, reduce the heat and stir in the fresh spinach, along with the cooked chicken and the reserved sundried tomatoes. Mix everything until heated through, about 2 to 3 minutes.
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Finally, top your creation with shredded Parmesan cheese and let it melt slightly before serving. This will add an extra layer of flavor!
Things Worth Knowing
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your pasta as it cooks. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and lose its delightful texture.
- Flavor Development: Allow the chicken to brown properly for a richer flavor. Searing adds depth to the dish that boiling cannot achieve.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh spinach and high-quality sundried tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water or broth to achieve your desired creaminess.
Customization Ideas
There are countless ways to make Sundried Tomato Chicken Pasta your own. Whether you want to play with flavors or adjust the ingredients, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to inspire your next creation:
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to include other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. They’ll add color and nutrition!
- Change Up the Protein: If you prefer something different, try shrimp or even a vegetarian protein like chickpeas.
- Herb Variations: Instead of Italian seasoning, experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme to give the dish a new twist.
- Cheese Options: Mix in different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for added flavor.
- Spice It Up: For those who love heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but I recommend storing the pasta and sauce separately for better texture.
- Pairing: Serve with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a perfect meal.
Accompaniments for Sundried Tomato Chicken Pasta
When it comes to serving Sundried Tomato Chicken Pasta, the right accompaniments can elevate the meal further. Here are some delightful ideas:
- Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Nothing beats warm, toasted garlic bread to scoop up those creamy sauce remnants from your plate.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted seasonal vegetables for a nutritious and colorful plate.
- Wine Pairing: While I don’t suggest specific wines, a light, crisp white can balance the richness of the dish if desired.
- Occasions: This dish shines during family dinners or as a comforting meal after a busy day.
- Leftover Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container, and they’ll be good for up to three days.
- Seasonal Pairings: Pair this dish with fresh herbs in the spring or roasted root vegetables in the fall.
FAQ
Conclusion
The beauty of Sundried Tomato Chicken Pasta lies in its comforting flavors and ease of preparation. It’s the type of dish that makes weeknight dinners feel special and has the power to bring everyone together around the table. I encourage you to try this recipe and rediscover the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.
Sundried Tomato Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- cast iron pan
Ingredients
- 7 oz sundried tomatoes in oil
- 1 lb chicken (cubed, uncooked)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning (divided)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup onion (diced)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz uncooked pasta
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and add the oil from the sundried tomatoes. Once hot, toss in the cubed chicken. The oil will help keep the chicken moist and prevent sticking.
- Next, season the chicken generously with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, paprika, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Give everything a good mix, ensuring each piece of chicken is evenly coated.
- Cook the chicken until it turns a lovely golden brown. You’re looking for a nice sear on all sides, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Once browned, sprinkle the chicken with grated Parmesan and remove it from the skillet. Set it aside for later.
- In the same skillet, add butter, followed by the onion and minced garlic. Sauté this mixture until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, usually about 5 minutes.
- After the onions are tender, sprinkle in the remaining 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Stir to combine, allowing the seasoning to infuse the butter and the onions.
- Now, pour in the water and add the heavy whipping cream. Stir well to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, add the uncooked pasta to the skillet. Stir it in so that it’s fully submerged in the sauce and cook according to the package directions, usually around 8 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't overcook.
- When the pasta reaches your desired tenderness, reduce the heat and stir in the fresh spinach, along with the cooked chicken and the reserved sundried tomatoes. Mix everything until heated through, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Finally, top your creation with shredded Parmesan cheese and let it melt slightly before serving. This will add an extra layer of flavor!
Notes
- Tip: Serve with a side salad to balance the richness.
