Introduction
Creamy fettuccine with chicken and sun-dried tomatoes is a delicious dish that brings comfort and flavor to any dinner table. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine for a satisfying meal. With ingredients that are both simple and wholesome, you can whip up this delightful dish to impress your family or guests in no time.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
8 ounces fettuccine pasta
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
4 cloves garlic, minced
1½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried basil
1¾ cups 2% milk
½ cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes
3 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, cubed
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This creamy fettuccine dish is perfect for busy weeknights or for hosting gatherings. The combination of flavors, from the Italian seasoning to the richness of the cream cheese and Parmesan, ensures a delightful dining experience. Enjoy every bite of this comforting meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
Cook the fettuccine in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet and cook, flipping once, until the chicken is cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet, allow it to cool slightly, then slice it into strips and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant, approximately 1-2 minutes. Whisk in the all-purpose flour, tomato paste, and dried basil. Cook this mixture until it is lightly browned, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Combine with Milk and Tomatoes
Gradually whisk in the 2% milk and finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, continuing to cook while whisking constantly. Allow the sauce to cook until it has thickened slightly, about 5 minutes. Stir in the cubed reduced-fat cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth, which should take approximately 1-2 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, add more milk until the desired consistency is reached. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Fettuccine and Chicken
Add the cooked fettuccine and sliced chicken to the sauce in the skillet. Gently toss everything together to ensure that the pasta and chicken are well-coated with the sauce.
Step 6: Serve the Dish
Serve the fettuccine immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Storage
Leftover fettuccine can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat leftover pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
Variations
Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a more colorful and nutritious dish.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
To boil fettuccine pasta, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well, reserving some pasta water if needed for sauce adjustments.
Searing Chicken
Sear boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until fully cooked and golden brown.
Sautéing Garlic
Sauté minced garlic in melted butter over medium heat until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes.
Making a Roux
To create a roux, melt butter in a skillet, then whisk in flour, cooking it until lightly browned. This thickens the sauce while adding flavor.
Cooking with Cream Cheese
Incorporate cubed cream cheese into the sauce gradually, stirring until it melts and blends smoothly for a creamy texture.
FAQ
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink in the center.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with other pasta types like penne, spaghetti, or linguine, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.
Is there a substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?
You can use roasted red peppers or fresh cherry tomatoes if sun-dried tomatoes are unavailable, but note that they may alter the flavor slightly.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Low-fat Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese can serve as alternatives to cream cheese for a creamy texture.
How can I adjust the sauce thickness?
If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk gradually until the desired consistency is achieved.
Conclusion
This creamy fettuccine with chicken and sun-dried tomatoes is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures. The blend of Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and butter creates a luxurious sauce that complements the tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also sure to impress family and friends.
Chickpea Fettuccine
Swap out the chicken for chickpeas for a vegetarian twist on this dish. The chickpeas will add protein and a hearty texture while keeping the creamy sauce.
Spinach and Feta Fettuccine
Incorporate fresh spinach and crumbled feta cheese into the sauce for a Mediterranean flair. The spinach will wilt beautifully, adding color and flavor.
Mushroom and Pea Fettuccine
Add sautéed mushrooms and green peas to create an earthy and fresh element to the dish. The mushrooms add umami, while the peas provide a pop of sweetness.
Buffalo Chicken Fettuccine
For a spicy kick, toss in some cooked chicken breast coated in buffalo sauce. Pair this with a drizzle of blue cheese dressing on top for a bold flavor profile.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine
Replace the chicken with shrimp sautéed in garlic and lemon juice. This light and zesty combination pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Vegetable Primavera
Load your fettuccine with a variety of seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. This vibrant mix adds both nutrition and colorful presentation to the dish.
