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Indulging in a creamy pasta dish is one of life's simple pleasures, and Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Penne strikes the perfect balance between rich flavors and comforting textures. This recipe combines the savory taste of chicken, the tangy essence of sun-dried tomatoes, and the creaminess of a rich sauce, all nestled in perfectly cooked penne pasta. As culinary enthusiasts and home cooks alike can attest, a well-prepared pasta dish can elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. In this blog post, we will explore the delightful aspects of this dish, from its origin to the step-by-step preparation, ensuring you can create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen.

Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Penne

Discover the irresistible flavors of Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Penne, a creamy pasta dish that combines juicy chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and rich sauce, all enveloped in perfect penne. This recipe highlights the versatility and health benefits of sun-dried tomatoes while ensuring a deliciously balanced meal. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this culinary masterpiece and elevate your dinner experience to new heights. Enjoy every comforting bite and impress your friends and family!

Ingredients
  

8 oz penne pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your heat preference)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water if needed later.

      Sauté the Chicken:

        In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season generously with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

          Prepare the Sauce:

            Using the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic along with the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the tomatoes are heated through.

              Create the Cream Sauce:

                Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Continue to cook for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.

                  Combine:

                    Return the sautéed chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked penne pasta. Toss everything together gently until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Allow to heat through for an additional minute, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

                      Serve:

                        Plate the delicious Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Penne, garnishing with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

                          Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                            - Presentation Tips: Serve in shallow bowls with a drizzle of good olive oil for an added touch, and a few extra sun-dried tomatoes on top for a pop of color.