Chicken Mozzarella Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: A Comfort Food Symphony in Your Kitchen

Introduction: The Flavor Fest Begins!

Ready to take your taste buds on an Italian vacation without leaving your kitchen? We’ve got the perfect dish to do just that: Chicken Mozzarella Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes! This dish is loaded with tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, all swirled together in a dreamy, creamy sauce. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, and we guarantee it’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Photo bytexas sasie lady

Here’s what you’ll need to get this pasta party started:

• 1 lb chicken breast tenderloins (sliced and ready to sizzle)
• 8 oz penne pasta (or your fave gluten-free option)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (we’re using the fancy stuff from the sun-dried tomatoes jar)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (for that perfect seasoning)
• ¼ teaspoon paprika (for a little kick and color)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced and mighty)
• 4 oz sun-dried tomatoes (drained and sliced)
• 1 cup half-and-half (or mix ½ cup heavy cream + ½ cup milk)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (don’t even think about using fresh mozzarella here)
• 1 tablespoon dried basil (because we’re fancy like that)
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, if you like it spicy)
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (for thinning the sauce, not for drinking)

Photo bytexas sasie lady

Directions: Let’s Get Cooking!

1. Get Your Pasta Groovin’

First, cook your penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (fancy word for “just right”). Don’t forget to reserve ½ cup of that starchy pasta water before you drain it—this stuff is liquid gold for your sauce.

2. Sizzle and Spice

In a large skillet, heat up 2 tablespoons of that reserved olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sizzle until your kitchen smells like an Italian restaurant (about 1 minute). Add the sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for another minute, just enough to mix those flavors together. Then, remove the tomatoes from the skillet and set them aside—they’ll be back soon!

3. Chicken Time!

Now, take your seasoned chicken slices (remember the salt and paprika?) and add them to the skillet. Cook on high heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, until they’re golden and cooked through. Once they’re done, invite the sun-dried tomatoes back into the skillet to mingle with the chicken.

4. Sauce It Up

Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the half-and-half. Bring it to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and start stirring in the shredded mozzarella cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts into a creamy, dreamy sauce. Add the dried basil, red pepper flakes, and salt, then stir it all together.

5. Pasta Party

Toss in the cooked penne pasta, making sure every piece is coated in that glorious sauce. If the sauce is a bit thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until it’s just right. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to let those flavors blend.

6. Serve and Savor

Dish up your Chicken Mozzarella Pasta while it’s hot, and get ready to dig in! This dish pairs perfectly with a crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread, or even a glass of white wine if you’re feeling fancy.

Photo bytexas sasie lady

Side Dish Ideas: Complement Your Creation

• Garlic Bread: Because what’s pasta without some buttery, garlicky bread to soak up all that sauce?
• Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine and tangy dressing are the perfect match for this creamy pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted veggies adds a nice balance and a pop of color to your plate.

Nutritional Facts: What’s on Your Plate?

• Calories: 641 per serving
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 680mg

Prep and Cook Time: Fast and Flavorful

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Conclusion: Your New Weeknight Wonder

And there you have it—Chicken Mozzarella Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, your new go-to dish for any night of the week! It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s packed with flavors that’ll make you feel like a culinary genius. So grab your fork, twirl that pasta, and enjoy the deliciousness you’ve just created. Bon appétit!