Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook until al dente.
Drain and set aside, reserving ¼ cup pasta water.
2. Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes until browned and nearly cooked through.
Remove chicken and set aside.
3. Make the Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 1 minute.
Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Pour in heavy cream, rosemary, thyme, and Parmesan.
Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Combine and Finish
Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for 2–3 minutes until fully cooked.
Toss in the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Success
Use full-fat cream: Prevents curdling and adds richness.
Deglaze the pan: A splash of white wine or broth after sautéing garlic lifts flavor-packed bits.
Garnish well: Fresh herbs boost flavor and presentation.
Variations to Try
Vegan Option: Use tofu or mushrooms; sub coconut cream and vegan Parmesan.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Seafood Twist: Swap chicken for shrimp or scallops.
Why This Dish Stands Out
The combination of creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs gives a savory-sweet balance that’s anything but ordinary. It’s ideal for special dinners or weekly meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic bread and a simple arugula salad
A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio
Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
Q: Can I use frozen sun-dried tomatoes?
A: Absolutely! Thaw them first and pat dry to prevent excess moisture.
Final Thoughts
This Herb Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream proves you don’t need a restaurant to enjoy a five-star meal. Rich, flavorful, and elegant—it’s a recipe that keeps impressing every time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook until al dente.
Drain and set aside, reserving ¼ cup pasta water.
2. Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes until browned and nearly cooked through.
Remove chicken and set aside.
3. Make the Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 1 minute.
Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Pour in heavy cream, rosemary, thyme, and Parmesan.
Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Combine and Finish
Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for 2–3 minutes until fully cooked.
Toss in the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Success
Use full-fat cream: Prevents curdling and adds richness.
Deglaze the pan: A splash of white wine or broth after sautéing garlic lifts flavor-packed bits.
Garnish well: Fresh herbs boost flavor and presentation.
Variations to Try
Vegan Option: Use tofu or mushrooms; sub coconut cream and vegan Parmesan.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Seafood Twist: Swap chicken for shrimp or scallops.
Why This Dish Stands Out
The combination of creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs gives a savory-sweet balance that’s anything but ordinary. It’s ideal for special dinners or weekly meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic bread and a simple arugula salad
A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio
Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
Q: Can I use frozen sun-dried tomatoes?
A: Absolutely! Thaw them first and pat dry to prevent excess moisture.
Final Thoughts
This Herb Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream proves you don’t need a restaurant to enjoy a five-star meal. Rich, flavorful, and elegant—it’s a recipe that keeps impressing every time.
