Description
A rich and creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. This indulgent, flavorful meal is perfect for a cozy dinner and brings together the creaminess of heavy cream with the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and spicy kick.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into thin strips)
- 8 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite kind)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for heat preference)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken strips, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes, and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss it in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, add more Parmesan cheese to the sauce.
- You can substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs or even shrimp for a different twist.
- If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American