Sun Dried Tomato Pasta is a savory Italian-inspired dish that features tender chicken breast, sun-dried tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and a rich garlic-infused sauce. This delightful combination creates a comforting dinner that your family will love. The balance of flavors and textures in this dish makes it a must-try for any pasta lover. Let’s dive into making this delicious recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
This sun dried tomato pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll adore this dish:
- It’s an easy sundried tomato pasta recipe that can be whipped up in no time.
- This creamy sundried tomato pasta is rich, satisfying, and perfect for a cozy family dinner.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor and nutrients, making it a healthier choice.
- It can be customized with vegetarian sundried tomato pasta ideas for meat-free meals.
- This dish is gluten-free, accommodating various dietary needs.
- It pairs wonderfully with garlic bread and a fresh salad, enhancing your dining experience.
Ingredients for Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
Gather these items:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until fully cooked and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 4: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Step 5: Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and spinach (if using) to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined and the spinach is wilted.
- Step 6: Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
Keep these in mind:
- Use low-moisture mozzarella for better melting and consistency.
- Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be tender and juicy.
- Add fresh herbs like basil or oregano for enhanced flavor.
- This dish is perfect for meal prep; just store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Best Ways to Serve Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
To elevate your dining experience, consider these serving ideas:
- Pair with a side of garlic bread for a wholesome meal.
- Serve alongside a fresh garden salad dressed with vinaigrette.
- Top with extra sun-dried tomatoes or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
How to Store and Reheat Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will last for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to keep the pasta moist. This is perfect for quick sundried tomato pasta meals during a busy week!
Frequently Asked Questions About Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
What is sun-dried tomato pasta?
Sun-dried tomato pasta refers to pasta dishes that feature sun-dried tomatoes as a primary ingredient, providing a rich and tangy flavor. This dish is often creamy, featuring ingredients like mozzarella and heavy cream, making it a delightful option for dinner.
Can I make sun-dried tomato pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare sun-dried tomato pasta ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator, and it will taste great reheated. This makes it a convenient option for meal prepping or quick dinners.
How do I avoid common mistakes with sun-dried tomato pasta?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure not to overcook your pasta and chicken. Also, using high-quality sun-dried tomatoes will enhance the flavor profile of your dish significantly.
Variations of Sun Dried Tomato Pasta You Can Try
There are many creative variations to this dish:
- Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
- Try using gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary restrictions.
- Incorporate sun-dried tomato pesto for an extra burst of flavor.
For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection or try our Peruvian Chicken and Rice for a different flavor profile.
For more information on the health benefits of sun-dried tomatoes, you can visit Healthline. This will give you insights into why they are a great addition to your meals.
Lastly, if you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, consider our Coconut Chicken Meatballs or Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry.
Print
Delicious Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Mozzarella
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A savory Italian-inspired pasta dish featuring tender chicken breast, sun-dried tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and a rich garlic-infused sauce, perfect for a comforting dinner.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until fully cooked and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and spinach (if using) to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined and the spinach is wilted.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 100mg

