This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Creamy Mozzarella Sauce is a delightful blend of flavors, combining tender chicken, rich creamy mozzarella, and the tangy goodness of sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a quick yet sophisticated meal, this dish is a go-to for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comfort food with a touch of elegance. With its creamy texture and burst of flavors, this pasta dish will surely impress your taste buds and make a great addition to your recipe collection.
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)
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Ensure it is al dente to retain a firm texture. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until it is golden brown and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Using the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will create a bitter taste. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir for an additional minute.
Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir the mixture and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken.
Step 5: Gradually add the shredded mozzarella cheese to the sauce, stirring continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy. Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, mixing well to ensure everything is coated in the sauce.
Step 6: Once combined, let everything simmer for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 7: Transfer the pasta to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Notes:
- For added flavor, consider tossing in fresh spinach or mushrooms while making the sauce. They will enhance the richness of the dish and provide a nutritious boost.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Using sun-dried tomatoes preserved in oil can intensify the flavor; be sure to drain them well before adding to the dish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this creamy pasta with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the sauce.
- Pair it with a glass of sparkling water or lemonade for a refreshing contrast.
- Top the pasta with crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
Tips:
- To ensure the chicken stays juicy, avoid overcooking. Cook it on medium heat until just done and golden brown.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella for the best melting quality and flavor. Pre-packaged shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that may affect the sauce’s creaminess.
- You can make this dish ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of water or milk to refresh the sauce.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 750mg
FAQs:
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape! Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti works well with this sauce. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be substituted if preferred.
2. Can I substitute the heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese. This will alter the richness slightly but still maintain a creamy texture.
3. What other cheeses can I use?
Besides mozzarella and Parmesan, you can experiment with cheeses like Gouda, Fontina, or even a bit of cheddar for a sharper taste.
Conclusion
Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Creamy Mozzarella Sauce is an easy-to-make, flavorful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. The combination of tender chicken, rich creamy sauce, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes ensures a taste that’s both hearty and refreshing. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy it as is, or customize it with your favorite add-ins to make it uniquely yours.
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Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken & Creamy Mozzarella Sauce – Easy Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
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
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Ensure it is al dente to retain a firm texture. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until it is golden brown and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Using the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will create a bitter taste. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir for an additional minute.
Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir the mixture and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken.
Step 5: Gradually add the shredded mozzarella cheese to the sauce, stirring continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy. Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, mixing well to ensure everything is coated in the sauce.
Step 6: Once combined, let everything simmer for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 7: Transfer the pasta to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
Cooking Notes:
- For added flavor, consider tossing in fresh spinach or mushrooms while making the sauce. They will enhance the richness of the dish and provide a nutritious boost.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Using sun-dried tomatoes preserved in oil can intensify the flavor; be sure to drain them well before adding to the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sodium: 750mg
- Protein: 30g