Description
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Penne
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Cook the chicken: Season chicken strips with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the garlic and tomatoes: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant, then stir in sun-dried tomatoes.
Make the creamy sauce: Lower the heat and add heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and let simmer for 3-4 minutes.
Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs thinning.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~520 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped before heating your skillet. When cooking the chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve a proper sear. For the sauce, keep the heat low after adding the cream to prevent curdling. Stir constantly while adding the Parmesan until it fully melts into a smooth, velvety sauce. When combining, add the reserved pasta water gradually—you may not need it all—to achieve a sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides to balance the meal. Serve with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or steamed green beans. For a restaurant-style touch, offer extra grated Parmesan and red pepper flakes at the table. A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy, tangy flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
In summary, this 30-minute meal involves cooking penne pasta, searing seasoned chicken strips, and creating a creamy sauce with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, broth, and Parmesan. Combine all elements in the skillet, using pasta water to adjust consistency, then garnish with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
We do not recommend it. Heavy cream provides necessary richness and stability; milk will not thicken properly and may curdle.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to refresh the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep components ahead, but combine just before serving. The sauce may thicken and the pasta can absorb too much liquid if assembled in advance.
What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
Try 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste for a different but still flavorful tomato depth, or use roasted red peppers for a sweeter profile.
Is there a way to lighten this recipe?
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use low-sodium broth. Be extra cautious to keep the heat very low to prevent separation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Always cook to al dente, as it will continue to soften in the sauce.
- Using high heat for the cream sauce: This can cause the dairy to separate or scorch.
- Skipping the pasta water: The starchy water is crucial for binding the sauce to the pasta.
- Adding cold chicken back into the hot sauce: Let it rest briefly, but add it while still warm to avoid cooling the dish down.
Conclusion
This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Penne is a guaranteed weeknight winner, delivering restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, tangy tomatoes, and a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce is simply irresistible. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can master this comforting dish and impress your family or guests. It’s the perfect recipe to turn an ordinary evening into a special occasion.