Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Creamy Mozzarella Sauce

Introduction

As a family, we often find ourselves in search of quick yet satisfying meals that don’t compromise on flavor. That’s when I stumbled upon this delightful recipe for Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Creamy Mozzarella Sauce. The first time I prepared it, I was instantly captivated by the rich, creamy sauce mingling with the tangy sun-dried tomatoes and tender chicken. It was an absolute hit at the dinner table! My family couldn’t get enough, asking for seconds and even thirds. Not only is this dish quick to whip up, but it also delivers a burst of flavors that make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

To create this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, cubed
• 8 oz pasta (penne or your choice)
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sear the Chicken: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the cubed chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until it is golden brown and fully cooked, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté it until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, followed by the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Combine: Lower the heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until it melts and creates a creamy sauce. Finally, add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce, mixing everything together until well coated.
5. Serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: 550

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken is delicious on its own, but you can enhance your dining experience with the following suggestions:

• Garnish: Top with fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor.
• Extra Cheese: Serve with additional grated Parmesan for those cheese lovers.
• Side Dishes:
• A crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Wine Pairing: Pair with a glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, to complement the creamy flavors.

Additional Tips

1. Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, consider tossing in some spinach or mushrooms when making the sauce. They add flavor and color!
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil makes a world of difference in flavor. Use it liberally!
3. Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking the pasta al dente will ensure it remains firm and holds up well when mixed with the sauce.
4. Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
5. Protein Options: Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp or even a plant-based protein for a different twist.

Recipe Variations

• Pasta Choices: While penne is great, you can also use fettuccine, spaghetti, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano to change up the flavor profile.
• Creamy Spinach Variation: Stir in some fresh spinach along with the sun-dried tomatoes for a colorful, nutritious boost.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, perfect for spice lovers.
• Vegan Option: Replace chicken with tofu and use a plant-based cream and cheese to make this dish vegan-friendly.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta dish can shine in various settings, making it versatile for different occasions:

• Family Dinner: Perfect for a quick weeknight meal that everyone will love.
• Impressive Meal: Serve it during special occasions with a side of gourmet garlic bread and a fresh salad.
• Potluck Favorite: This dish travels well and can be a star at any gathering.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: If you have leftovers, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop, adding a bit of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
• Storage: In the fridge, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

• Yes, but sun-dried tomatoes provide a concentrated flavor that fresh tomatoes lack. If using fresh, you may want to sauté them first to reduce moisture.

1. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

• You can substitute half-and-half or use a combination of milk and cream, but the sauce may not be as rich.

1. Can this dish be made ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and just combine with the pasta when ready to serve.

1. How can I make this dish spicier?

• Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the garlic.

1. What if I have leftovers?

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

1. Can I use another type of cheese?

• Absolutely! Feel free to mix in or substitute with cheddar, goat cheese, or even feta for a unique flavor.

1. Is this recipe gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

1. Can I make this vegetarian?

• Yes, omit the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

1. What can I serve with this pasta?

• A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully.

1. How long does it take to cook the chicken?
   • Typically, it takes about 6-8 minutes to cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked.

Conclusion

Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Creamy Mozzarella Sauce is a delectable dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it an instant family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something special for guests, this recipe delivers on all fronts. With its versatility and ease of preparation, it’s bound to become a regular in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal that everyone will rave about!

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