Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Pasta with Grilled Chicken

A rich and creamy pasta dish with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and flavorful grilled chicken. Perfect for a hearty dinner.

Cook time: 40 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
• 0 salt for the pasta water
• 2 large chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 0 salt to taste
• 0 black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped
• 0.5 cup white wine or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
• 0 salt to taste
• 0 black pepper to taste
• 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
• 0.5 cup reserved pasta water if needed
• 0 grilled chicken sliced or cubed
• 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
• 0 Parmesan cheese for garnish
• 0 fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips or cubes.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant but not browned. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Pour in white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Stir in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
7. Gently toss in the sliced grilled chicken. Stir in chopped fresh basil. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.