Looking for a meal that’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor? I’ve got the perfect dish for you: One Pot Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Delight. This recipe combines tender chicken, rich sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce—all in one pot! Say goodbye to messy kitchens and hello to a delightful dinner that your whole family will love. Let’s dive into this delicious journey together!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herb blend
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
You will need a mix of fresh and pantry staples to create this dish. Start with olive oil to sauté. Chicken thighs work best for their juicy quality. Don’t forget salt and pepper for flavor. A medium onion and four cloves of garlic add depth. Sun-dried tomatoes give it a rich taste; make sure they are in oil for extra moisture.
Herbs like dried basil and an Italian herb blend enhance the dish. Chicken broth helps cook the pasta and adds flavor. Penne pasta is great for soaking up the sauce. Heavy cream makes it rich and creamy. Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. Finally, Parmesan cheese brings a salty kick. Garnish with fresh basil for a lovely finish.
These ingredients come together to make a simple, tasty meal. Enjoy the process and feel free to customize!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season 1 pound of chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Next, add the chicken to the pot. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want it browned all over. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Sautéing Aromatics
In the same pot, add 1 medium chopped onion. Cook it for about 3 to 4 minutes until it turns translucent. Then, add 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté the garlic for 1 to 2 minutes until it smells great. This step builds the dish’s base flavor.
Building the Dish
Now, add 1 cup of sliced sun-dried tomatoes. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried basil and 1 teaspoon of an Italian herb blend. Let them cook for 1 more minute to wake up their flavors. Next, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Once simmering, add 12 ounces of penne pasta and return the chicken to the pot. Stir everything well to mix.
Finishing Touches
Cover the pot and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed. After that, reduce the heat to low. Next, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of chopped spinach. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce becomes creamy. Finally, stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until it melts well. Taste and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To cook pasta al dente, follow these steps:
- Use the pasta package for timing.
- Start timing when the pasta is in boiling water.
- Taste the pasta a minute before the time is up. It should be firm but not hard.
For a creamy sauce, do not rush the process:
- Stir in the heavy cream at low heat.
- Mix well to combine with the other ingredients.
- Let it simmer gently until it thickens.
Flavor Enhancement Tips
To boost the flavor, try these simple ideas:
- Add more salt and pepper as needed. Taste as you go.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle in red pepper flakes.
- Consider fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a fresh taste.
You can also add garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor.
Cooking Equipment Suggestions
Using the right pot makes a big difference:
- A large pot or Dutch oven works best. It helps with even cooking.
- Ensure it has a lid to trap steam and flavors.
For utensils, here are my favorites:
- A wooden spoon for stirring.
- A sharp knife for chopping.
- Measuring cups for precise ingredients.
These tools help make your cooking easy and fun.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a sweet flavor. Tofu is a great choice for a plant-based option. It absorbs flavors well.
When it comes to pasta, penne is delicious, but you can try others. Bowtie or fusilli also works well. Choose what you like best.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free pasta. There are many brands that taste great and cook well. Just check the package for cooking times.
For dairy-free needs, replace heavy cream with coconut milk. It adds a nice flavor and creamy texture. You can also skip Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free version.
Flavor Variations
Adding veggies can elevate this dish. Bell peppers add sweetness, while mushrooms give a nice earthiness. You can mix and match veggies based on what you have.
Cheese can also change the flavor profile. Try using feta for a tangy twist. Mozzarella gives a creamy melt. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container. Let it cool first. This keeps the pasta fresh and tasty. When reheating, use the stove or microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help it heat evenly. Stir it well to avoid hot spots.
Freezing Instructions
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Store it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat on low heat to keep it creamy.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, this dish lasts about 3-4 days. Watch for signs of spoilage. If it smells sour or looks off, it’s best to toss it. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety.
FAQs
What type of pasta works best for One Pot Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?
I like to use penne pasta for this dish. Its shape holds the sauce well. You can also try fusilli, rotini, or farfalle. These shapes work nicely, too. They all cook evenly in one pot.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can easily prep this dish ahead of time. Cook it and let it cool. Store it in the fridge in an airtight container. It can stay fresh for about three days. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I omit the cream for a lighter dish?
Absolutely! You can skip the heavy cream for a lighter meal. Use half-and-half or whole milk instead. For a dairy-free option, try coconut milk or almond milk. These alternatives still keep the dish creamy without the heaviness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prepping! Make a big batch and portion it out. Store the pasta in airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge and reheats nicely. Just add a splash of broth when reheating to keep it moist.
This recipe brings together simple ingredients like chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs. You learned step-by-step instructions to create a creamy, flavorful dish. With tips on texture and flavor, you can make it perfect every time. Also, you discovered variations to suit your taste. Whether you store leftovers or prepare ahead, this dish stays delicious. Enjoy making this meal and share it with others for a great dining experience. Your kitchen will shine with this easy, tasty pasta dish.
