Spicy Chicken Creamy Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

This Spicy Chicken Creamy Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a perfect combination of rich, creamy goodness with a spicy kick. The dish is incredibly satisfying, with tender pieces of chicken breast, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy sauce enhanced by the bold flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Whether you’re craving a comforting weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this dish has got you covered. It’s the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and savory flavors, making it a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

The addition of sun-dried tomatoes adds a tangy, umami-packed punch that beautifully complements the richness of the heavy cream and the heat from the red pepper flakes. It’s an easy-to-make pasta that doesn’t compromise on flavor, with minimal prep and cooking time. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or looking to impress at your next dinner, this pasta recipe is sure to deliver. So grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into making this flavorful and indulgent pasta!

this RECIPE

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy & Comforting

The combination of heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan creates a rich and creamy sauce that clings to the pasta, giving you that ultimate comfort food experience.

2. Balanced Spice

The red pepper flakes give the dish a mild to medium level of heat, providing just the right amount of spice without overwhelming the flavors.

3. Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy, savory depth to the dish, enhancing the flavor profile and making it a step above your typical creamy pasta.

4. Quick & Easy

This pasta comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful but don’t have a lot of time to spare.

5. Customizable

Adjust the spice level to suit your taste by adding more or less red pepper flakes. You can also swap the chicken for shrimp or add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to make it your own.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
• Pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite kind)
• Heavy cream
• Sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Red pepper flakes
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Fresh basil (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Chicken Substitute: Swap the chicken breasts for shrimp or even grilled sausage for a different protein option.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini, to make this dish vegetarian.
• Add Greens: You can stir in some spinach or kale for added color and nutrition.
• Creamier Sauce: If you prefer an extra creamy sauce, increase the amount of heavy cream and butter for a richer texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water in case you need to thin out the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook them for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet, slice it thinly, and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Add the sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing them to release their flavors. Pour in the heavy cream, and add red pepper flakes to taste. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy mixture. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

Step 6: Add Parmesan

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and toss everything together until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the creamy, spicy pasta topped with the sliced chicken. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To ensure the chicken stays juicy and tender, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Use Pasta Water: If your sauce seems too thick, use some reserved pasta water to thin it out. The starchy water will help the sauce adhere better to the pasta.
• Customize Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. For extra heat, feel free to add more.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil is a great garnish, but you can also try adding parsley or thyme for additional layers of flavor.

How to Serve

This Spicy Chicken Creamy Pasta is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A glass of white wine, such as a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, would complement the dish beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to help revive the sauce.

Freezing

This pasta doesn’t freeze well due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you must freeze, consider freezing just the chicken and pasta separately, and make the sauce fresh when you’re ready to reheat.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little cream or pasta water if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or farfalle.

2. Can I make this dish without chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, sausage, or even vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian version.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some chopped fresh chili peppers to make the dish hotter.

4. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich and creamy.

5. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Cook the chicken just until it reaches 165°F internally, and avoid overcooking it. You can also brine the chicken beforehand to help retain moisture.

6. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the pasta is best served fresh, you can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then just combine them with cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.

8. Can I use jarred sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, jarred sun-dried tomatoes work perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to drain and chop them before adding to the sauce.

9. Can I use fresh garlic instead of minced garlic?

Yes, fresh garlic works best for this recipe and adds more flavor than pre-minced garlic.

10. Can I make this pasta dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative, and use dairy-free cheese for the Parmesan.

Conclusion

This Spicy Chicken Creamy Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is an absolute winner when it comes to quick, flavorful dinners. With creamy sauce, tender chicken, and the tangy punch of sun-dried tomatoes, this pasta offers a perfect balance of comfort and spice. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. With its easy-to-follow steps and customizable ingredients, it’s a dish you’ll want to keep in your weekly rotation. Enjoy the bold flavors and creamy goodness in every bite!

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