Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Fettuccine

Let’s be honest—there’s something about creamy pasta that feels like a hug in a bowl. And when you combine that richness with the bold, tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes and the savory goodness of tender chicken? It’s pure comfort food magic. This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Fettuccine is just the thing to make you feel like a gourmet chef, even if you’re not in the kitchen for long. Trust me, you’re going to want to make this one more than once!

Why You’ll Love Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Fettuccine

This dish isn’t just about the flavors—it’s about creating a memorable meal that feels both indulgent and satisfying. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

• Rich and Creamy: The velvety, garlic-infused cream sauce coats every piece of fettuccine, creating a luscious bite every time.
• Balanced Flavors: The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness that complements the rich creaminess of the sauce and the juicy chicken.
• Quick and Easy: Despite the elegant taste, this dish comes together quickly with minimal ingredients. No need to stress over a complicated recipe.
• Versatile: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or add a little spice with red pepper flakes for extra kick.
• Restaurant-Quality: This dish feels like something you’d order at a cozy bistro—but now you can make it at home!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to bring this creamy, dreamy dish to life:

Fettuccine: The perfect pasta for this creamy sauce—wide enough to hold onto the sauce but tender enough to cook up quickly.
Chicken Breast: Tender, juicy chicken that gets perfectly seasoned and adds protein to your dish.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Packed with flavor, these tomatoes give the sauce a tangy richness that’s hard to beat.
Heavy Cream: The key ingredient for that dreamy, silky sauce that brings everything together.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty kick to the sauce—because what’s pasta without cheese?
Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken and garlic to golden perfection.
Chicken Broth: To help create the creamy, flavorful sauce base.
Fresh Basil: For a pop of color and fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning to bring everything together.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get to cooking this decadent dish!

1. Cook the Fettuccine
Start by cooking your fettuccine in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water for later.

2. Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes to release their oils and flavor. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes.

4. Add the Cream
Now, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 4-5 minutes until it thickens up and becomes luxuriously creamy. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and allow it to melt into the sauce.

5. Combine Everything
Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it back into the skillet, along with the cooked fettuccine. Toss everything together so the pasta and chicken are fully coated in that creamy sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to help coat the pasta.

6. Finish with Fresh Basil
Toss in some fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor. Give it one last stir, then taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 620 (approximate)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Fettuccine

This creamy pasta dish is filling and flavorful all on its own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

• Side Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the richness of the pasta.
• Garlic Bread: No pasta dish is complete without a side of garlic bread to soak up that delicious creamy sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers complement the creaminess of the fettuccine and add a touch of color to your plate.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce and the chicken’s savory flavor.

Additional Tips

• Make it Spicy: If you love a little heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce when you add the garlic.
• Chicken Variations: You can also use grilled chicken thighs or even rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Consider adding spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
• Make it Lighter: You can swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or use a lighter cream alternative if you want a lighter version.
• Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A1: Absolutely! You can swap the fettuccine for any pasta you like—penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti would work perfectly.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A2: The dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then reheat and cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a little chicken broth or cream to bring back that creamy texture.

Q4: Can I use non-dairy alternatives?
A4: Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream and use dairy-free Parmesan to make it vegan or dairy-free.

Q5: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A5: Definitely! Adding spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers would be a great way to introduce more veggies into this dish.

Q6: How do I make the sauce thicker?
A6: If you’d like a thicker sauce, simply let it simmer for a bit longer to reduce. You can also add a little extra Parmesan cheese to thicken it up.

Q7: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A7: Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works great in this dish! Just add it to the skillet when you’re making the sauce.

Q8: How can I make this dish spicier?
A8: Add red pepper flakes when you sauté the garlic or toss in some chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a kick.

Q9: Can I make this dish with shrimp instead of chicken?
A9: Absolutely! Shrimp would be a fantastic substitute. Just sauté it until cooked through and follow the rest of the recipe as written.

Q10: Can I freeze this dish?
A10: While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze the creamy chicken and sauce mixture for up to a month. Just be sure to freeze it separately from the pasta, as pasta tends to get mushy when frozen.

Conclusion

If you’re craving a comforting, creamy pasta that’s bursting with flavor, Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Fettuccine is the dish you need. It’s quick, simple, and oh-so-satisfying, making it perfect for any night of the week. From the first bite, you’ll fall in love with the creamy sauce, tender chicken, and savory sun-dried tomatoes. Plus, it’s versatile enough to make your own with some added veggies or a little heat. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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