Hearty, flavorful, and rich, this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a sure hit for the family. Made in 30 minutes, this chicken penne pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner. Made with budget friendly ingredients, you'll be making this on repeat!
2tbsps.olive oillight tasting, searing the chicken
1.5lb.chicken tenderloinscubed into bite-sized pieces
¼tsp.black pepper
½tsp.salt
½tsp.garlic powder
½tsp.onion powder
The Sauce
1½cupheavy cream
1½cupchicken brothlow sodium
½tsp.saltor more to taste
¾tsp.black pepper or less to taste
½tsp.onion powder
7oz.sun-dried tomatoesin jar, drained
3wholegarlic clovesminced
¾cupgrated parmesan cheese
¼cupfresh basilchopped and packed
¼tsp.cayenne pepperor chili flakes, optional
Instructions
Cook pasta according to the instructions on the package. Drain when ready to add into the sauce.
In a small bowl season chicken with the mixture of seasonings listed under chicken.
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, approximately 5 to 6 minutes.
Add tomatoes and garlic and cook for a couple more minutes. Add the heavy cream, broth, cheese, salt, onion powder, black pepper and cayenne pepper if using any.
Mix and simmer the sauce on low heat for a few minutes until the sauce thickens up.
Stir in drained pasta and fresh basil. Cover and cook for a few more minutes on low heat until the pasta absorbs some of the sauce. Top with more chopped fresh basil and shaved parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Video
Notes
A time-saving tip is to heat the skillet with oil while you are mixing together the spices, thus reducing the time you are waiting for things to heat up. Also, start boiling the water for your pasta as you prep your ingredients so it's ready for your pasta once you're done chopping and dicing.
Make sure to cut your chicken in equal bite size pieces, so the pieces will be cooked evenly.
Use enough cold water so when the pasta begins to cook and expand, there will still be plenty of room for the noodles to move freely.
Make sure your pot is boiling before adding the pasta. Noodles that are added too soon will be soggy and not properly cooked. It’s best to set a timer so you don’t forget about it.
As soon as you put your pasta in the water make sure to stir it. This stops the pasta from sticking together.