Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken Pasta
Try this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken Pasta recipe.
Try this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken Pasta recipe.
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- salt & pepper
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- smoked paprika
- 1/2 medium onion chopped
- flour for dredging
- italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (i used fusilli)
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless/skinless)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil torn
- Carbohydrate 11.516178003706 g
- Cholesterol 22 mg
- Fat 8.62469500086507 g
- Fiber 1.73412127968163 g
- Protein 11.8663500012787 g
- Saturated Fat 4.53320127509497 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (114g)
- Sodium 713.020050206082 mg
- Sugar 9.78205672402435 g
- Trans Fat 0.580949850082787 g
- Calories 166 calories
Step-by-step
- Boil a salted pot of water and cook pasta according to package directions.
- Butterfly the chicken then cut it in half lengthwise so you have 4 thinner cutlets.
- Lightly sprinkle each side of each piece of chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt & pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Dredge each piece of chicken in flour.
- Add olive oil to a skillet on medium-high heat. When it's hot and shimmering, add each piece of chicken.
- Cook for 4 minutes per side.
- Remove from pan.
- Add the onion to the pan and cook for 5 minutes or until it's lightly browned (you may need to add a little more oil to the pan if the chicken soaked it all up).
- Add the Dijon mustard, sun-dried tomatoes, lemon juice, garlic, and cream to the pan and cook for 2 minutes, stirring until you've got a smooth sauce.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the parmesan and basil.
- Slice the chicken into strips and add it to the pan.
- Cover and cook for another 5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (be careful not to overcook it).
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet. If you want to thin the sauce out a bit, add a tablespoon of pasta water at a time.
- Serve immediately.
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken Pasta: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying dinner can feel like a Herculean task. My evenings are usually a whirlwind of homework help, bath time battles, and the ever-present mountain of laundry. But I refuse to let that stop me from enjoying a home-cooked meal. That's where this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken Pasta comes in – a lifesaver, a weeknight wonder, and a surprisingly simple recipe that always delivers.
The beauty of this dish is its versatility. It's hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest of family members, yet elegant enough to impress unexpected guests (because, let's be honest, those happen sometimes!). The creamy sauce, bursting with the bright, tangy flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, coats the pasta perfectly, clinging to every strand. The tender chicken adds a protein punch, making it a complete and well-balanced meal. I often find myself doubling the recipe, knowing there'll be delicious leftovers for lunch the next day – a true bonus in the busy week!
Beyond the Recipe: A Taste of Simplicity
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. No need for exotic ingredients or complicated techniques. The pantry staples are easily accessible, and the steps are straightforward, even for a beginner. This means more quality time with my family, less time slaving away in the kitchen, and more opportunity to savor the moment. I use this dish to showcase my kitchen skills, a place I consider my creative space. The scent of garlic and basil fills the air, a happy side effect of creating something nourishing.
Making it Your Own
The best thing about cooking is the freedom to personalize your dishes. This recipe is no exception. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta – penne, fettuccine, or even linguine would work wonderfully. If you're a spice enthusiast, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Or, for a vegetarian twist, simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. The possibilities are endless!
More Than Just a Meal
For me, cooking isn't just about putting food on the table; it's about creating memories, sharing laughter, and connecting with my loved ones. This simple pasta dish has become a staple in our family, a comforting and familiar meal that we all look forward to. It's a symbol of togetherness, a reminder that even on the busiest of days, there's always time for a little bit of love, and a whole lot of delicious pasta.
Beyond the Kitchen: A Busy Mom's Perspective
Life as a working mother is a constant balancing act – juggling careers, family, and the never-ending to-do list. This pasta recipe is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the importance of finding simple pleasures in the midst of chaos. The efficiency of this recipe allows me to enjoy other aspects of life without sacrificing a good meal for my family. I find immense satisfaction in creating something nourishing and delicious, especially when I know it's fueling my family through their busy days. The aroma of freshly cooked pasta and the happy faces around my dinner table are priceless rewards.
The Power of Simple Cooking
So, the next time you're feeling overwhelmed by your schedule, remember this recipe. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos, there's always time for a simple, satisfying meal that brings people together. It's a celebration of the everyday, a tribute to the power of simple cooking, and a testament to the enduring joy of sharing a delicious meal with those you love.
A Final Note: Embrace the Imperfect
Don't be afraid to experiment, to adjust the seasonings to your liking, and to embrace the imperfect. Cooking is a journey, not a destination, and every meal is an opportunity to learn, grow, and create something beautiful. And sometimes, that's all we really need.
