Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Ravioli
Imagine diving into a plate of creamy sun-dried tomato chicken ravioli, where each bite evokes a medley of rich flavors and textures. This pasta dish is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening or a delightful surprise for family gatherings. Packed with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious creamy sauce, this recipe is both indulgent and fast to prepare, making it a true weeknight hero. Let’s dive into the deliciousness that awaits your kitchen!
Are you ready to elevate your pasta night?
Have you ever found yourself yearning for a satisfying, comforting meal that also impresses your guests? Picture this: a plate filled with ravioli drenched in a creamy sauce, the vibrant pop of sun-dried tomatoes peeking through, and the promise of luscious Parmesan melting on top. What if I told you that you could whip up this gourmet dish in no time? You can have your favorite Italian restaurant experience right at home—and it all starts with this creamy sun-dried tomato chicken ravioli.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy sun-dried tomato chicken ravioli is a complete game-changer for several reasons:
Quick and Easy Preparation: It comes together in about 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weekdays.
Flavor-packed: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, chicken, and creamy goodness creates a symphony of flavors.
Crowd-pleaser: It appeals to both adults and kids, making it an ideal family meal.
Minimal Ingredients: With common pantry staples, it’s likely you already have most of what you need.
With these benefits, you can see why this recipe deserves a special place in your meal rotation!
Ingredients
Picture a beautifully organized countertop, waiting to be transformed with delightful ingredients for your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken ravioli. Here’s what you’ll need:
Frozen ravioli: Convenient yet delicious, they serve as the base for our dish.
Olive oil: Just the right amount to add a depth of flavor to the sautéed chicken.
Chicken breasts (boneless and skinless): Juicy morsels that soak up the sauce beautifully.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings bringing balance to flavors.
Garlic powder & Italian seasoning: The aromatic duo you’ll want in every savory dish.
Red pepper flakes: For that hint of heat that kicks this recipe up a notch.
Fresh garlic (minced): Because nothing compares to the allure of freshly chopped garlic.
Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped): Bursting with concentrated flavor, they add that signature tang.
Green onions (sliced): For freshness and a gentle crunch.
Fresh parsley (chopped): An aromatic touch that brightens the dish.
Heavy cream: The key component that binds the flavors together with its velvety texture.
Chicken broth (low sodium): To keep things moist without adding extra salt.
Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): Because a little more cheese is always a good idea.
Reserved pasta water: A chef’s secret weapon to achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
Gather these ingredients, and let the kitchen magic commence!
Timing
If you’re pressed for time but still crave indulgence, this creamy sun-dried tomato chicken ravioli is your go-to. When managed well, the entire meal can come together in under 30 minutes. This means you can enjoy a luxurious dinner without the luxury of time.
Conversely, if you prefer to take your time in a leisurely cooking session, feel free to savor each step, letting the aroma envelope your kitchen as the flavors meld together.
Step-by-Step
1. Cook the ravioli
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the frozen ravioli and cook until they float and are tender, which typically takes around 4 minutes. Once they’re done, transfer them to a bowl, reserving half a cup of the pasta water.
2. Sauté the chicken
In a skillet, warm a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Let the chicken sizzle undisturbed for about 3 minutes, then flip them over and cook for an additional 2 to 4 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden.
3. Add aromatics
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, add minced garlic, chiffonaded sun-dried tomatoes, green onions, and parsley into the skillet. Sauté these aromatic ingredients for about 2 minutes, allowing the garlic to sizzle and release its inviting fragrance.
4. Make it creamy
Lower the heat, and carefully pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the skillet as you bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for about 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Combine the ravioli
Gently fold the cooked ravioli into this creamy mixture. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and bind everything together smoothly. If the sauce seems too thick, add in some reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
6. Serve and enjoy
Plate the creamy sun-dried tomato chicken ravioli while still hot, finishing with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s time to dig in and relish every tantalizing bite!
Nutritional Information
This dish is not just indulgent but also satisfies your cravings—one serving contains approximately 600 calories. It’s a belly-filling treat, perfect for an occasional indulgence on those busy weeknights or special occasions.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re aiming for a lighter twist, consider these healthier alternatives: opt for whole wheat or gluten-free ravioli to maintain the heartiness while cutting down on refined carbs. You can also substitute heavy cream with unsweetened coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version. Furthermore, choosing skinless chicken thighs can help maintain moisture while adding flavor without compromising on health!
Serving Suggestions
This creamy sun-dried tomato chicken ravioli is an all-in-one dish, perfect as is. However, if you want to elevate it further, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad and a scoop of your favorite ice cream for dessert. It’s an excellent option for festive occasions, family dinners, or cozy nights in!
Common Mistakes
When making creamy sun-dried tomato chicken ravioli, it’s common for cooks to overlook just how vital timing is. Overbaking the chicken can lead to dryness, while undercooking the ravioli can result in a less-than-satisfying bite. Texuture can also be affected if the sauce is not stirred enough or if too much pasta water is added in one go.
Storing Tips
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Want to save some for later? This ravioli dish freezes beautifully! Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container, and consume within three months. When it’s time to savor again, simply reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain that creamy texture.
Tempted to Make It ASAP?
With each enticing layer of flavor, creamy sun-dried tomato chicken ravioli promises to be a comforting hug on a plate. Easy enough for a weeknight yet special enough to impress, you owe it to yourself to make this dish! Roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and let the sauce simmer while you daydream about the delightful flavors that are about to dance on your palate.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for fresh ravioli.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when you are ready to add the ravioli.
3. How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
4. Is this recipe spicy?
The red pepper flakes add a mild heat, but you can adjust that to your liking!
5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Spinach or kale would be wonderful additions. Just sauté them with the garlic for extra nutrition.
Now you have everything you need to create this delicious creamy sun-dried tomato chicken ravioli right in your own kitchen—happy cooking!
Print
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Ravioli
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Poultry
Description
A comforting and indulgent meal featuring ravioli tossed in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce with tender chicken.
Ingredients
- Frozen ravioli
- Olive oil
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- Red pepper flakes
- Fresh garlic (minced)
- Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- Green onions (sliced)
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Heavy cream
- Low sodium chicken broth
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Cook the ravioli in salted boiling water until they float, about 4 minutes. Reserve half a cup of pasta water and transfer ravioli to a bowl.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 3 minutes, flip and cook for another 2-4 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Add minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, green onions, and parsley to the skillet. Sauté for about 2 minutes.
- Lower the heat and pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Scrape browned bits from the pan and let simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Fold the cooked ravioli into the sauce. Add Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
