Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Chicken and Creamy Mozzarella Sauce 🍝

Bring warmth and comfort to your holiday table with this flavorful Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta! With tender chicken, creamy mozzarella, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a dish that’s both hearty and festive, perfect for cozy winter dinners with family or friends.

Ingredients:

• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 oz sun-dried tomatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil (use oil from the sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor)
• 1 lb chicken breast tenderloins, sliced
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp paprika
• 1 cup half-and-half (or ½ cup heavy cream and ½ cup milk)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (avoid fresh; use pre-shredded for best results)
• 8 oz penne pasta (use gluten-free pasta if desired)
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes, plus extra for garnish
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (adjust as needed)
• ¼ tsp salt, or to taste

Directions:

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Remove the sun-dried tomatoes, leaving the oil in the skillet. Add chicken slices, seasoned with salt and paprika, and cook on high heat for 1 minute per side. Remove from heat.
3. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions, reserving some pasta water before draining.
4. Cut the sun-dried tomatoes into smaller pieces and return them to the skillet with the chicken.
5. For the sauce, add half-and-half and shredded mozzarella to the skillet. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir constantly until the cheese melts, forming a creamy sauce.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing well with the sauce.
7. Stir in basil and red pepper flakes. Adjust sauce thickness with reserved pasta water as needed.
8. Season with salt and additional red pepper flakes to taste, allowing the dish to simmer for a few minutes for the flavors to meld.
9. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil or red pepper flakes if desired.

Details:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

Enjoy this comforting, festive pasta dish that’s sure to become a holiday favorite!