Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Fettuccine is a decadent pasta dish that combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious creamy sauce. The rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and garlic meld perfectly with the creamy texture of the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The fettuccine serves as the ideal base, absorbing the creamy sauce while complementing the savory chicken. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dish that feels indulgent yet is easy enough to prepare for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe is a delicious balance of savory, tangy, and creamy, with a hint of heat from the optional red pepper flakes. Garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will impress your family and guests alike. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking to elevate your pasta repertoire, this creamy fettuccine is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy and Rich Flavor

The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan creates a rich, luxurious sauce that perfectly coats the fettuccine and chicken.

2. Quick and Easy

Ready in about 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something flavorful and satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen.

3. Balanced and Flavorful

With the savory chicken, the tang of sun-dried tomatoes, and the creamy sauce, this dish offers a balanced combination of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

4. Customizable Heat

Add a touch of red pepper flakes for a bit of spice, or leave them out for a milder dish. It’s easily adjustable to suit your taste preferences.

5. Perfect for Special Occasions

With its luxurious sauce and elegant presentation, Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Fettuccine is ideal for a special dinner or a celebratory meal.

Ingredients

Fettuccine pasta
Olive oil
Chicken breasts (sliced into thin strips)
Garlic powder
Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper
Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped, oil-packed for extra flavor)
Garlic (minced)
Heavy cream
Chicken broth
Grated Parmesan cheese
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh basil (chopped, for garnish)

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and substitute with grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers, for a delicious vegetarian version.
Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or even a chopped fresh chili to kick up the heat.
Lighter Version: Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative for a less indulgent version.
Cheese Options: For a different flavor profile, try using Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan or mix both for a richer taste.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water to help adjust the sauce later. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. If you’re using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, use some of the oil from the jar to add extra flavor.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked fettuccine and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and chicken evenly in the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the pasta with freshly chopped basil and a little extra Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch. Serve immediately while the dish is hot and creamy.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Be sure to reserve some pasta water before draining the fettuccine. The starchy water helps thicken the sauce and helps it adhere better to the pasta.
If the sauce thickens too much while simmering, you can always add more chicken broth or pasta water to achieve the perfect consistency.
For the best flavor, use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes rather than dried tomatoes.
If you prefer your chicken to be extra crispy, consider searing it for a few extra minutes on each side before removing it from the skillet.
For extra creaminess, add a dollop of mascarpone cheese to the sauce or increase the amount of Parmesan.

How to Serve

Serve this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Fettuccine with a light side salad and some warm garlic bread. A crisp glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the richness of the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or chicken broth to bring the sauce back to life and prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

Although the dish can be frozen, the creamy sauce may change texture slightly when thawed. If freezing, let the pasta cool completely before placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding more cream or chicken broth as needed to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the fettuccine with any long pasta like linguine, spaghetti, or tagliatelle.

2. Can I make this dish without chicken?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even a variety of vegetables for a different version.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Parmesan is ideal, but you can use Pecorino Romano or a blend of both for a slightly different taste.

4. How do I make the dish spicier?

You can add more red pepper flakes, or even fresh chopped chili peppers for an extra kick.

5. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply cook the pasta and combine everything.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

7. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using a plant-based protein or more vegetables.

8. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes can be used, but sun-dried tomatoes provide a more intense flavor and a different texture that enhances the dish.

9. What can I serve with this pasta?

This creamy pasta pairs well with a light green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

10. How can I thicken the sauce?

If you want a thicker sauce, you can cook it for an extra few minutes to reduce it, or add a little more Parmesan cheese.

Conclusion

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Fettuccine is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the savory richness of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a velvety cream sauce. Whether you’re enjoying it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will impress with its creamy texture, vibrant flavors, and easy-to-follow steps. The balance of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors makes it a hit with everyone. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan for the perfect finishing touch.