In the whirlwind of modern life, finding time to cook a meal that’s both delicious and effortless can feel like chasing a fleeting dream. Enter Swift Savor: Chicken & Sundried Tomato Pasta in Minutes-a vibrant dish that transforms everyday ingredients into a gourmet experience without the hours in the kitchen. This recipe marries tender, juicy chicken with the rich, tangy punch of sundried tomatoes, all tossed in a silky pasta that’s ready before you know it. Whether you’re a busy professional, a home cook craving simplicity, or someone who just loves bold flavors, this quick and satisfying meal is about to become your new go-to favorite. Ready to savor every swift bite? Let’s dive in.
Swift Savor: Chicken & Sundried Tomato Pasta in Minutes
Swift Savor: Chicken & Sundried Tomato Pasta in Minutes is the ultimate weeknight rescue for busy cooks craving bold, satisfying flavors without compromising on quality. This dish combines the rich tang of sundried tomato sauce with a perfectly seared chicken breast, delivering juicy tenderness paired with pasta that cooks up quickly for an effortless meal. Inspired by Mediterranean coastal flavors and elevated through expert technique, it’s a one-pan wonder bound to become a fast favorite.
Prep and Cook Time
Preparation: 10 minutes | Cooking: 20 minutes | Total: 30 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 hearty portions
Difficulty Level
Easy – Perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned kitchen pros.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for pasta water
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes, packed in oil, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a lighter option
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces linguine or fettuccine pasta
- Fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped for garnish
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
- Heat a skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Once shimmering, add the chicken and sear without moving for 5-6 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Flip and finish: Turn the chicken, reduce heat to medium, and cook another 5-7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from pan, cover loosely with foil, and let rest.
- Cook the pasta: While chicken rests, bring salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- Sauté garlic & sundried tomatoes: In the same skillet, lower heat to medium, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant-about 30 seconds. Stir in chopped sundried tomatoes and cook 2 minutes.
- Create the sauce: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let simmer gently until slightly thickened, 3-4 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine pasta & sauce: Add drained pasta to skillet along with reserved pasta water a splash at a time to reach silky sauce consistency. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Slice and serve: Thinly slice rested chicken and arrange atop the pasta. Garnish with fresh basil and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Chef’s Notes & Tips for Success
- Chicken doneness: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Resting the chicken prevents juice loss and retains tenderness.
- Sundried tomato variety: Oil-packed sundried tomatoes provide deeper richness. If using dry-packed, rehydrate in warm water for 10 minutes first.
- Quick sauce swap: For a dairy-free twist, substitute cream with coconut milk or an almond cream alternative.
- Make-ahead: Cook chicken and pasta separately, store in airtight containers, and reheat with sauce for a speedy dinner.
- Adding vegetables: Fresh spinach or arugula stirred in at the end adds color, nutrition, and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this vibrant dish atop large shallow bowls to showcase the glossy sundried tomato sauce and perfectly golden chicken slices. Garnish generously with fresh basil, a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and an optional sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for crunch. Serve alongside a crisp green salad or crusty garlic bread for a balanced and festive meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Calories | Protein (g) | Carbohydrates (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 480 kcal | 38 | 45 | 15 |
For more quick and flavor-packed dinner inspiration, check out our Easy One-Pan Pasta Recipes. Enhance your culinary skills by understanding the science behind perfect searing from Serious Eats.
Q&A
Q&A: Swift Savor – Chicken & Sundried Tomato Pasta in Minutes
Q1: What makes the “Swift Savor: Chicken & Sundried Tomato Pasta” recipe stand out from other pasta dishes?
A1: This recipe is a whirlwind of flavor and convenience! It combines tender chicken breast with the intense, tangy sweetness of sundried tomatoes, all united by a creamy, garlicky sauce. The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing gourmet taste.
Q2: Can I use other types of pasta, or is this dish specific to one kind?
A2: Absolutely! While penne or rigatoni work great because they catch the sauce beautifully, feel free to experiment with spaghetti, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. The key is to cook the pasta al dente, so it retains a lovely bite to complement the creamy sauce.
Q3: How do sundried tomatoes influence the flavor profile of this dish?
A3: Sundried tomatoes bring a concentrated, sweet tanginess that uplifts the overall flavor. Unlike fresh tomatoes, they add depth and a slightly chewy texture, creating a delightful contrast with the tender chicken and silky sauce. They’re the secret ingredient that transforms a simple pasta into an elegant meal.
Q4: Is the recipe adaptable for dietary preferences or restrictions?
A4: Definitely! For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. You can use chicken thighs for extra juiciness or replace chicken entirely with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just remember to adjust seasoning and cooking times accordingly.
Q5: What tips can help me achieve the best results quickly?
A5: Prep is everything! Slice your chicken and sundried tomatoes before you start. Use chicken broth or white wine to deglaze the pan and build complexity in your sauce. And don’t forget to reserve some pasta water-it’s liquid gold for smoothing out your sauce to silky perfection.
Q6: How should I serve this dish for a complete meal?
A6: Pair your Swift Savor pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or garlic bread for a comforting crunch. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a few basil leaves on top will add a fresh, aromatic finish that elevates each bite.
Q7: Can this dish be made ahead or stored as leftovers?
A7: Yes! This pasta reheats well, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Just remember, fresh herbs and cheese are best added right before serving.
Closing Remarks
In the whirlwind of daily life, finding a meal that’s both quick and bursting with flavor can feel like a culinary treasure hunt. “Swift Savor: Chicken & Sundried Tomato Pasta in Minutes” is your secret map to a satisfying dinner that doesn’t sacrifice taste for time. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple technique, you can craft a dish that feels indulgent yet effortless. So next time the clock is ticking and hunger is calling, remember-swift savoring is just a skillet away. Your taste buds (and schedule) will thank you.
