Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Mozzarella

If you’re looking for a dish that is both comforting and impressive, then you’ve found it in this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Mozzarella. This recipe is like a warm hug on a plate! With tender chicken, rich sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, it brings together flavors that will delight your taste buds. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet special or for family gatherings where everyone gathers around the table.

One of the best parts about this dish is how simple it is to prepare! You can transform everyday ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal in just about 40 minutes. Trust me; your family and friends will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for any night of the week.
• Family-friendly: The creamy sauce and cheesy goodness are sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the pasta ahead of time and just reheat when you’re ready to serve.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and mozzarella creates a deliciously rich flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile: You can easily adapt this recipe to include your favorite vegetables or proteins.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. With these basics, you’ll whip up an amazing Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Mozzarella in no time!

For the Chicken

• 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

For the Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed

Variations

One of the things I love about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily switch up ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand! Here are a few ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use grilled shrimp or turkey instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
• Make it lighter: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter version while still keeping it creamy.
• Herb upgrade: Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top can elevate the flavors even more!

How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Mozzarella

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by prepping all your ingredients. Chop those sun-dried tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and mince the garlic. Having everything ready makes cooking flow smoothly.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat up the olive oil. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the pan. Cook until they’re golden brown, about 6-7 minutes per side. It’s important not to rush this step; a nice sear adds flavor!

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

Once your chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In that same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant—this brings out its sweetness! Then stir in those chopped sun-dried tomatoes.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream next! Let it simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes while stirring continuously until it’s slightly thickened. This step creates that luscious sauce we all crave!

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Toss your cooked penne pasta into the skillet along with cubed mozzarella cheese. Stir until everything is well coated and that lovely cheese has melted into every bite.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Slice your chicken into strips and serve it beautifully on top of the pasta. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese! It adds an extra touch of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

And there you have it—a delicious Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Mozzarella that’s sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy every delightful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Mozzarella

Cooking this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Mozzarella is a breeze when you follow these handy tips!

• Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes: Choosing sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil enhances the flavor and ensures the dish remains moist and rich. They add a depth of taste that truly shines in this recipe.

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Aim for perfectly cooked chicken that’s juicy and tender. Overcooking can lead to dry meat, so keep an eye on it and remove it from heat as soon as it reaches 165°F (75°C).

• Adjust the cream for desired richness: If you prefer a lighter sauce, feel free to reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute part of it with vegetable broth. This allows you to customize the dish to your liking without sacrificing flavor.

• Let the pasta rest before serving: Allowing the pasta to sit for a few minutes after tossing it with the sauce helps flavors meld together beautifully. It also gives the dish a chance to thicken slightly.

• Experiment with herbs: While Italian seasoning works wonders, don’t hesitate to mix in fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving. Fresh herbs add brightness and freshness that elevate the overall taste!

How to Serve Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Mozzarella

Presenting your Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Mozzarella can make all the difference in how appealing it looks on your table. Here are some delightful ideas for serving this wonderful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of torn basil leaves not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fragrant aroma that complements the sun-dried tomatoes beautifully.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of cracked black pepper just before serving adds a bit of spice and visual interest, enhancing both flavor and appearance.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread is an irresistible companion, ideal for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce on your plate.
• Mixed green salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta, balancing out your meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus provide color, texture, and additional nutrients while complementing the flavors of your main dish.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and nutrition. Plus, its vibrant green color makes your plate look even more appetizing!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable dining experience! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Mozzarella is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, saving you valuable time on busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• For best flavor, consume within 1-2 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down entirely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Label with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Mozzarella:

Can I use other types of pasta for this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Mozzarella?

Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully, feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shape like fusilli or farfalle. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How can I make this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Mozzarella healthier?

You can lighten the dish by using whole grain pasta or substituting half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk. Adding more vegetables like spinach or zucchini is also a great way to boost nutrition.

Can I prepare this dish without chicken?

Yes! This recipe is versatile. You can leave out the chicken entirely or replace it with grilled vegetables or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian option.

What should I serve alongside Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Mozzarella?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables for added nutrition!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Mozzarella as I am to share it! This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to your table. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy weeknight or serving it at a gathering, it’s sure to impress. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to savor every delicious bite!