Pin it
Creamy sun-dried tomato and chicken fettuccine combines the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with classic Italian pasta. This restaurant-quality dish transforms simple ingredients into an indulgent meal that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. The marriage of tender chicken strips with sweet sun-dried tomatoes in a velvety cream sauce creates an unforgettable dining experience.
I've made this dish countless times for family gatherings, and it never fails to impress. The sauce always turns out silky smooth, coating each strand of pasta perfectly.
Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips
- Fettuccine: Choose high-quality durum wheat pasta for the best texture
- Chicken breasts: Select uniform-sized pieces for even cooking
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Oil-packed varieties offer superior flavor and moisture
- Heavy cream: Full-fat version creates the silkiest sauce
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated yields the smoothest sauce integration
- Fresh basil: Look for bright green leaves without dark spots
Detailed Cooking Instructions
- Step 1: Pasta Preparation
- Boil in well-salted water until al dente
- Reserve pasta water - crucial for adjusting sauce consistency
- Step 2: Chicken Cooking
- Season thoroughly before cooking
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve golden crust
- Rest meat before slicing for juicier results
- Step 3: Sauce Development
- Begin with aromatics for flavor foundation
- Gradually incorporate cream while stirring
- Allow proper reduction for optimal thickness
My family particularly loves the sun-dried tomatoes in this dish. Their intense sweetness reminds me of summers in Italy, where I first discovered their transformative power in pasta dishes.
Storage and Reheating
- Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently with a splash of cream
- Freezing isn't recommended due to cream-based sauce
After years of perfecting this recipe, I've found it's the little details that make it spectacular. The key is patience during the sauce-making process and using quality ingredients. This dish has become my go-to for special occasions, never failing to create memorable dining experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different pasta for this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with spaghetti, linguine, or penne.
- → How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- → Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
- Yes, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus.
- → What can I use instead of heavy cream?
- You can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk as a substitute for heavy cream.
- → Do I need to rehydrate the sun-dried tomatoes?
- If using dry-packed tomatoes, rehydrate them in warm water for 10–15 minutes before using. Oil-packed tomatoes can be used directly.