Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Pasta Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

This creamy chicken fettuccine with sun-dried tomatoes is a comforting and flavorful dish that will impress any dinner guest. With a rich, cheesy sauce and tender chicken, it's a perfect meal for any occasion.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 8 ounces fettuccine
• 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast, cut into strips
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup drained sun-dried tomatoes
• 2 large cloves garlic, pressed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced fresh basil, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Directions

Step 1: Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the fettuccine and cook until tender yet firm to the bite, about 8 minutes. Drain and keep warm.

Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken strips with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

Step 4: Add the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic to the skillet. Cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.

Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and add the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Stir well to combine and cook on low heat, stirring constantly, until the cheeses are melted and the sauce becomes creamy.

Step 6: Stir in the red pepper flakes and the cooked fettuccine. Mix everything together, allowing the pasta to be fully coated with the creamy sauce. Season with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.

Step 7: To finish, sprinkle the pasta with the remaining fresh basil. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 664
• Total Fat: 42g (53% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 21g (103% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 191mg (64% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 939mg (41% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 23g (8% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (5% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 48g (97% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 8mg (9% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 268mg (21% Daily Value)
• Iron: 3mg (14% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 556mg (12% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The History and Origins of Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Pasta

The roots of creamy sun-dried tomato and basil pasta can be traced to traditional Italian cuisine, particularly from the regions of Liguria and Tuscany, where sun-drying tomatoes has long been a practical method for preserving the fruit beyond the summer season. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy cheeses evolved over the decades as Italian cooks sought to enrich simple pasta dishes with bold flavors and textures. The use of cream in pasta sauces, while less traditional than olive oil-based sauces, became popular in modern Italian-American cuisine, giving this dish its signature silky texture and indulgent taste.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

While the dish has Italian roots, regional adaptations vary considerably. In Northern Italy, chefs often add mascarpone or a mix of Parmesan and fontina to create a richer sauce, whereas Southern Italian versions might focus on olive oil, fresh cherry tomatoes, and a lighter touch of cheese. In the United States and other international adaptations, it is common to include protein additions such as chicken or shrimp, as in this recipe, making it a hearty main course rather than a simple pasta side. Herbs beyond basil, such as oregano or thyme, are occasionally used, reflecting local tastes.

Distinguishing Features from Similar Dishes

Creamy sun-dried tomato and basil pasta stands out from other tomato-based pasta dishes, such as marinara or arrabbiata, primarily due to its creamy texture and the concentrated, tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. Unlike classic tomato sauces that are simmered fresh, sun-dried tomatoes provide a more intense umami flavor, while the cream and cheeses add a balancing richness. This differentiates it from pesto pasta, which relies on fresh herbs and olive oil without dairy, and from standard Alfredo, which lacks the bright acidity of tomatoes and the herbal notes of basil.

Typical Serving Occasions

This pasta dish is versatile and often served as a main course for dinner or a special family meal. It is popular in Italian restaurants as part of an elegant pasta menu and can also be found in casual bistros offering contemporary Italian-American cuisine. Its comforting richness makes it ideal for gatherings, date nights, or festive occasions where a satisfying, flavorful dish is appreciated. It pairs well with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or a glass of light white wine.

Interesting Facts

• Sun-dried tomatoes were historically used as a preservation method in Italy before refrigeration, which allowed tomatoes to be enjoyed year-round.
• The combination of cream and tomatoes was initially controversial in traditional Italian cooking, as acidity and dairy can sometimes curdle when combined improperly.
• This dish is sometimes served cold as a pasta salad variation, highlighting the versatility of sun-dried tomatoes in both warm and chilled preparations.
• The use of fresh basil, added at the end of cooking, is key to maintaining its aromatic and bright flavor, distinguishing it from cooked herbs that lose potency.
• While often paired with chicken or shrimp, the vegetarian version with just pasta and sun-dried tomato cream sauce is equally celebrated for its bold and satisfying taste.

FAQ about Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Pasta Recipe

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