Asiago Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach

Introduction

Asiago Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach is a dish that’s both simple and sophisticated, making it the perfect solution for when you crave an impressive meal without the fuss. The creamy sauce is infused with the sharp, nutty flavor of Asiago cheese, while sun-dried tomatoes lend their tangy intensity, beautifully balanced by the earthy freshness of spinach. Tender bites of chicken complete the dish, making each forkful a satisfying experience.

I remember the first time I made this pasta; it was for a cozy dinner with friends. Everyone was captivated by the aroma wafting from the kitchen, and it turned out to be the star of the evening. What’s great about this recipe is that it can be prepared in under an hour, yet it tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant. The contrast of flavors and textures—chewy, tangy tomatoes against the rich creaminess of the sauce—keeps each bite exciting and full of character.

Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a meal to impress guests, this Asiago Chicken Pasta is versatile enough for any occasion. And the best part? It’s adaptable. You can swap in different greens, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or even change up the protein if you like. Serve it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread, and you’ve got a dinner that’s sure to win rave reviews.

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Date night at home
• Christmas eve
• Celebrations or gatherings
• Comfort food cravings
• Potluck dishes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These are the top reasons Asiago Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach is bound to become a household favorite:

• Rich, Creamy Sauce: The Asiago cheese adds a unique, tangy creaminess that elevates the entire dish.
• Burst of Flavor: Sun-dried tomatoes provide a sweet and savory punch that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.
• Balanced Ingredients: Spinach adds a healthy touch, blending well with the pasta and creamy sauce for a wholesome meal.
• Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Seasoned and seared to perfection, the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
• Restaurant Quality at Home: Recreates a gourmet pasta experience without the need for dining out.
• Beautiful Presentation: The mix of bright sun-dried tomatoes, vibrant spinach, and creamy sauce makes for an impressive dish.
• Kid-Friendly: A meal that even picky eaters will enjoy, thanks to its creamy, cheesy appeal.
• Customizable: Easily adapted with your choice of pasta or additional veggies to suit your preferences.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Comforting and Satisfying: The rich, cheesy sauce combined with tender pasta makes for an indulgent, comforting dinner.
• Flavor Depth: Asiago cheese and sun-dried tomatoes provide a distinctive, layered taste that makes every bite exciting.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 600 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbohydrates: 55g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

For the Pasta Dish

• 12 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
• 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Asiago cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Asiago Cheese: Provides a sharp, nutty flavor that elevates the cream sauce.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Adds a tangy, concentrated flavor for contrast.
• Spinach: Fresh and nutritious, balances out the richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create Asiago Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach:

Cook the Chicken

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Sauté Chicken: Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Pasta

3. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

Prepare the Sauce

4. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Asiago cheese and continue stirring until melted and smooth.
6. Incorporate Tomatoes and Spinach: Add the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2 minutes.
7. Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency.

Finish and Serve

8. Season and Serve: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a bit of heat (optional) and season with additional salt and black pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Asiago cheese, if desired.

How to Serve

Enjoy Asiago Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach in these ways:

• As a Main Dish: Pair with garlic bread for a full Italian experience.
• With a Fresh Salad: Serve with a simple Caesar or mixed greens salad.
• Family Style: Present in a large serving bowl for an inviting, communal meal.
• For Date Night: Plate in individual portions with a garnish of parsley and a side of white wine.
• Topped with Fresh Herbs: Add extra basil or thyme for a burst of fresh flavor.
• With a Side of Vegetables: Pair with steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli.
• Sprinkle of Cheese: Offer extra Asiago or Parmesan at the table.
• For Potlucks: Make a larger batch and serve warm from a slow cooker.
• As Leftovers: Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to keep it moist.
• Elegant Presentation: Top with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added sophistication.

Additional Tips

Optimize your Asiago Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach with these helpful tips:

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep it al dente to avoid a mushy texture.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Use it to adjust the sauce consistency.
• Choose Quality Cheese: Freshly grated Asiago melts better than pre-shredded.
• Use a Different Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp or turkey if preferred.
• Prep Ahead: Slice and chop ingredients beforehand to save time.
• Extra Creaminess: Add a spoonful of cream cheese for a richer texture.
• Balance Acidity: If the sun-dried tomatoes are too tangy, add a pinch of sugar.
• Add a Crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts for an added texture.
• Adjust Spice Level: Use more or less red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
• Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Recipe Variations

Explore these 10 variations for Asiago Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach:

• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add more spinach or artichokes.
• Use a Different Cheese: Swap Asiago with Parmesan or Pecorino Romano.
• Add Bacon: Include crispy turkey bacon for added smokiness.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
• Incorporate Fresh Basil: Add fresh basil leaves for a burst of herbaceous flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for more heat.
• Swap Spinach: Use kale or arugula for a different green.
• Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms for an extra earthy flavor.
• Use Sundried Tomato Oil: Replace some olive oil with oil from the sun-dried tomatoes jar.
• Creamy Pesto Twist: Stir in a spoonful of pesto for an herby addition.

Freezing and Storage

Keep your Asiago Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 1 month. Reheat with a bit of cream to maintain the sauce’s texture.
• Reheating Tip: Warm on the stovetop or microwave, stirring in a splash of milk or pasta water to maintain creaminess.

Special Equipment

1. Large Pot: For boiling pasta.
2. Large Skillet: For cooking chicken and sauce.
3. Chef’s Knife: For cutting chicken and vegetables.
4. Cutting Board: To prep ingredients.
5. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring.
6. Grater: For grating fresh Asiago cheese.
7. Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements.
8. Tongs: For tossing the pasta.
9. Colander: For draining pasta.
10. Serving Bowl: For presenting the dish.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti work well as substitutes.
2. Is there a non-dairy version of Asiago cheese? Try a plant-based cheese alternative for a dairy-free version.
3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely, chicken thighs add more flavor and moisture.
4. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, prepare the sauce and chicken in advance and store in the fridge until ready to combine with freshly cooked pasta.
5. What can I use instead of heavy cream? Half-and-half or a mix of milk and butter can work in a pinch.
6. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick? Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce as needed.
7. Can I add vegetables? Yes, bell peppers, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes make great additions.
8. Is this dish freezer-friendly? Yes, but the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon reheating.
9. How do I make it extra cheesy? Add an extra half-cup of Asiago or top with a blend of Asiago and mozzarella.
10. Can I serve it cold as a pasta salad? While best served warm, leftovers can be enjoyed chilled for a unique twist.

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Conclusion

Asiago Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach is a versatile and indulgent dish that brings together a harmonious blend of rich flavors and creamy texture. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta is sure to impress. Its balance of hearty ingredients and easy customization makes it a perfect choice for any occasion.

I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see how it turns out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!