Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Indulge in the rich flavors of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes! This dish combines tender chicken, a creamy garlic sauce, and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz fettuccine or linguine
• Salt (for pasta water)

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Creamy Sauce

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably in oil)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a boil.
2. Cook Pasta: Add the fettuccine or linguine to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Reduce the heat to medium and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
2. Add Liquids: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
3. Stir in Cheese & Tomatoes: Add the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Toss Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss it in the creamy sauce until well coated.
2. Slice Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the pasta.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Cooking Tips

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and fresh garlic for the best flavor. Opt for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for added richness.
• Cook Chicken Properly: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Adjust Consistency: Keep the reserved pasta water on hand to adjust the sauce consistency to your liking. A little goes a long way!
• Add Vegetables: Consider adding spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Alternatives: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, salmon, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta made from chickpeas or rice.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement this creamy dish, consider serving it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. A glass of Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the richness of the garlic butter sauce.

Conclusion

The Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to your dining table. With its luscious sauce and vibrant flavors, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make this dish your own!

For those who want to dive deeper into the world of pasta cooking, I recommend checking out tutorials on various pasta shapes and sauces. You can also explore more recipes featuring sun-dried tomatoes for a delightful twist in your meals.

Enjoy your culinary adventure, and don’t hesitate to share your creations or variations with friends and family!