Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This sun-dried tomato, chicken, and pasta recipe is your answer. It's a perfect blend of savory and sweet, delivering a delicious homemade meal that's ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, perfect for busy weeknights. It's one of those best recipes that’s surprisingly simple, even for beginner cooks.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add Flavor: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
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Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
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Garnish and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the skillet along with the sun-dried tomatoes.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add 1 cup of cooked chickpeas or white beans for a hearty vegetarian meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Fat: 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40-45 grams
This easy recipe delivers a healthy and delicious meal, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch. It's adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to your collection of food recipes. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and chicken creates a truly satisfying flavor profile that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!