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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Fettuccine

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This creamy sun-dried tomato and chicken fettuccine is a comforting, restaurant-quality pasta dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Tender chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce come together in just 30 minutes, creating a rich, flavorful meal perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep.

Why This Dish Works

  • Bold, balanced flavors – The tang of sun-dried tomatoes pairs beautifully with creamy, cheesy sauce.
  • Quick and easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, ideal for busy nights.
  • Simple cleanup – Only one skillet and a pot for pasta are needed.
  • Versatile – Chicken can be swapped for shrimp, mushrooms, or spinach for a fresh twist.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz fettuccine pasta
  • 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, drain the rest, and set aside.

Cooking the Chicken

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Season chicken strips with salt and black pepper.
  3. Cook chicken for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  4. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Building the Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and chopped onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1–2 minutes.
  4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Add dried basil and red pepper flakes, mixing well.

Combining the Pasta and Chicken

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
  2. Add the cooked fettuccine and toss until everything is evenly combined.
  3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
See also  Creamy Fruit Salad

Serving and Garnishing

  1. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
  2. Pair with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

  • Use low heat when adding Parmesan cheese to prevent clumping.
  • For extra cheesiness, add an additional ¼ cup of Parmesan.
  • Chicken variations: try chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or shrimp/scallops for a seafood twist.
  • Lighter options: substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, or use Greek yogurt for a healthier creamy texture.
  • Spice lovers: increase red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne. For herby notes, stir in a spoonful of pesto.

Serving Suggestions

  • Garlic bread – perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
  • Caesar salad – fresh and crisp to balance the richness.
  • Roasted vegetables – asparagus, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes work beautifully.
  • Bruschetta – a light appetizer before this indulgent pasta.

Wine Pairings

  • Chardonnay – buttery and oaked, complementing the creamy sauce.
  • Pinot Grigio – light and crisp, balancing richness.
  • Sangiovese – bright acidity cuts through creamy flavors.

Timing Information

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: 560 kcal per serving

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the pasta and chicken separately, then prepare the sauce when ready to serve. Reheat gently and combine before serving.

Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely. Penne, linguine, or tagliatelle work well with this creamy sauce.

Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Yes. Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a combination of vegetables.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed.

Can I freeze this pasta?
Freezing is possible, but texture may change slightly. Reheat slowly over low heat for best results.

Final Thoughts

Creamy sun-dried tomato and chicken fettuccine is an elegant yet easy-to-make dish that delivers rich flavors and indulgent textures in just 30 minutes. The tangy tomatoes, cheesy sauce, and tender chicken make every bite satisfying and memorable. Perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or special occasions, this pasta is sure to impress your family or guests.