Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz dried pasta: You can use your pasta of choice—penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti. Each one works well with the creamy sauce.
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the onions and garlic, adding a subtle richness to the base of the dish.
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped: Provides a sweet, savory flavor that builds the foundation of the sauce.
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is essential in Italian dishes, offering an aromatic depth.
- 1 Tablespoon butter: This adds richness to the chicken as it browns.
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces: Tender, lean chicken, flavored with spices, becomes the star of the dish.
- ½ teaspoon EACH Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, pepper: A perfect blend of spices that seasons the chicken, adding warmth and complexity.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This creates the smooth, luxurious texture of the sauce.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Sharp and salty, Parmesan gives the sauce a savory depth and thickens it beautifully.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: These provide a tangy and slightly sweet contrast, balancing the creamy richness of the sauce.
- Basil leaves: Fresh basil adds a pop of color and a light herbal finish when garnished over the top.
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain and set it aside. This step ensures the pasta is ready to be incorporated into the sauce when needed.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent. This takes about 3-4 minutes and forms the aromatic base of the dish.
- Cook the Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet, allowing it to melt. Toss in the bite-sized chicken breast pieces. Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine it with the cooked chicken and aromatic base. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes, thickening slightly. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, which will add both creaminess and a savory kick.
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Pasta: Toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, stirring them into the sauce. Add the cooked pasta into the skillet and use tongs to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the pasta with fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of freshness and color. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
Notes
Serving and Presentation Ideas
- Plated Elegance: Serve the pasta on a large, shallow dish for a restaurant-quality presentation. Sprinkle extra Parmesan and basil leaves over the top to make it visually appealing.
- Family Style: For a more casual vibe, serve the pasta in a big bowl in the middle of the table for everyone to help themselves.
- Garnish: Consider garnishing with a drizzle of olive oil or some toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner