There’s a special kind of joy that fills the kitchen when you create a dish that envelops you in warmth and flavor. Picture this: plump cheese ravioli drenched in a lush, creamy sauce, with tender chicken and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes coming together in a symphony of taste. I stumbled upon this delightful Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Ravioli recipe on a busy weeknight when I craved something comforting yet easy to prepare.
In under thirty minutes, you can whip up this Italian-inspired masterpiece that not only satisfies those cravings but also impresses your family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or an elegant dish for a special gathering, this recipe has you covered. Join me in savoring the delightful blend of flavors that can turn an ordinary evening into a memorable culinary experience!
Why is Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken the best?
Unmatched Comfort: This recipe delivers a warm, satisfying dish that feels like a hug on a plate, making it perfect for any night.
Quick to Prepare: In under thirty minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready, ideal for those busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes creates a mouthwatering medley that’s hard to resist.
Versatile Options: Easily swap proteins and ravioli types to cater to your family’s preferences or dietary needs. Consider trying it out for quick weeknight meals that everyone will love.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether serving family or guests, this dish is sure to impress, turning any dinner into a special occasion!
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Ingredients
Transform your dinner with the rich flavors of this dish!
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For the Sauce
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Olive Oil – Use extra virgin for a richer taste that complements the creamy sauce.
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Garlic (minced) – Fresh garlic is key for depth of flavor and makes the sauce irresistible.
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Heavy Cream – Creates a luscious, creamy sauce that envelops the ravioli beautifully.
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Chicken Broth – Enhances the sauce and adds depth; opt for low-sodium for better salt control.
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Parmesan Cheese – Use freshly grated for the best texture and flavor in every bite.
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For the Chicken
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Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Adds a juicy protein source; can be swapped for thighs or turkey cutlets for tenderness.
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Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to suit your flavor preferences.
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Garlic Powder – Adds a hint of garlic flavor to the chicken.
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For the Ravioli
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Frozen Ravioli – The hearty base of this dish; use fresh ravioli and adjust boiling time for quickness.
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For the Flavor Boost
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Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Offers tangy sweetness that cuts through the richness of the cream.
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Green Onions – Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor; shallots work well as a substitute.
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Italian Seasoning – Aromatic blend typical of Italian cuisine; feel free to adjust per your taste.
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Red Pepper Flakes – Introduces a mild heat; can be omitted for a milder dish.
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For Garnish
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Fresh Parsley – Provides a burst of fresh flavor and vibrant color; best when added fresh just before serving.
Dive into this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Ravioli that will delight your taste buds and warm your heart!
How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Ravioli
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Boil the Ravioli: Start by cooking the frozen ravioli in a large pot of boiling salted water according to the package instructions. Remember to reserve 120 ml of the pasta water before draining. Set the ravioli aside once cooked.
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Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the boneless chicken pieces seasoned with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
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Add Flavorful Ingredients: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, along with chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sliced green onions, and a handful of fresh parsley. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of chicken broth into the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
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Combine Ravioli and Sauce: Gently incorporate the drained ravioli and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Toss everything together until the ravioli is well coated in the creamy sauce, adding the reserved pasta water as needed for consistency.
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Serve with Love: Plate your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken ravioli immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy this comforting dish crafted with care!
Optional: A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a beautiful touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken
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Cook Ravioli Al Dente: Ensure the ravioli is cooked just until al dente; this prevents them from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes to elevate the flavor profile of your creamy sauce.
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Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creamy consistency.
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Season Mindfully: Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go to enhance the flavors of your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken.
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Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on fresh parsley and extra Parmesan when serving; they add a vibrant touch and boost overall flavor!
Storage Tips for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the creamy sauce fresh and delicious.
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Freezer: Avoid freezing this creamy dish as dairy-based sauces can separate and affect texture upon thawing.
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Reheating: To reheat, warm gently on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess.
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Serving Fresh: For the best taste, enjoy this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken right after cooking, as flavors are most vibrant!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Ravioli are perfect for meal prep, making your weeknight dinners seamless! You can cook the ravioli and prepare the creamy sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the cooked ravioli and sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain quality and prevent the ravioli from sticking, toss them in a little olive oil before refrigerating. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on low heat and then add the ravioli, warming them through together. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, comforting meal that feels just as fresh as the day you made it, saving you time and effort!
What to Serve with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Ravioli?
Looking to create a complete, satisfying meal that your family will rave about? Let’s explore some delightful pairings that will elevate your dining experience.
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Garlic Bread: The perfect companion to this creamy dish, garlic bread soaks up the sauce beautifully and adds a crispy texture.
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Lemony Roasted Broccoli: With its vibrant flavor, roasted broccoli brightens up the plate and balances the richness of the ravioli.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and a tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast, making each bite of pasta feel even more indulgent.
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Grilled Asparagus: This tender green vegetable offers a delicious crunch, and its slight char enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
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Pesto Parmesan Zoodles: Light and flavorful, zucchini noodles tossed with pesto add a fresh twist that effortlessly complements the creamy ravioli.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of crisp Chardonnay elevates the dining experience, offering pleasant acidity that cuts through the creaminess.
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Tiramisu: End the meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert; its coffee and cocoa flavors pair beautifully with the ravioli.
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Bruschetta: This fresh tomato and basil topping on toasted bread brings a burst of flavor that enhances the meal’s Italian flair.
Each of these side dishes contributes unique textures and flavors to your creamy sun-dried tomato chicken ravioli, creating a warm, inviting meal!
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore new flavors and customize this dish to fit your family’s tastes!
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Turkey or Sausage: Swap chicken for turkey cutlets or Italian sausage for a different protein flavor that’s equally satisfying.
This twist not only adds a new taste but also offers a hearty alternative that is just as comforting. -
Vegetarian Delight: Use spinach or mushroom ravioli to create a meaty texture without the meat.
This option provides an earthy flavor that balances perfectly with the creamy sauce. -
Milder Flavor: Replace sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a sweeter and milder sauce.
This substitution allows the sauce’s creaminess to shine while offering a subtle sweetness. -
Herbal Infusion: Switch out Italian seasoning for fresh basil and oregano for a brighter taste.
Fresh herbs bring a vibrant aroma that can elevate the dish to a whole new level of freshness. -
Nutty Depth: Stir in some toasted pine nuts for added crunch and a nutty finish.
The combination of textures creates a delightful contrast against the creamy ravioli and sauce. -
Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to amp up the heat for spice lovers!
With just a small adjustment, you can turn up the flavor and make it excitingly fiery. -
Zesty Twist: Incorporate lemon juice and zest into the sauce for a citrusy refreshment that brightens every bite.
This addition cuts through the creaminess, making the dish feel lighter and more vibrant. -
Alternative Cream: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option that adds its unique richness.
This twist brings a tropical hint while ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting dish!
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Ravioli Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ravioli?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using frozen cheese ravioli for convenience and texture. If you opt for fresh ravioli, be sure to boil them until al dente, which usually takes just a few minutes—perfect for a speedy dinner!
How should I store leftovers?
You can refrigerate any leftover Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Ravioli in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It’s always best to allow the dish to cool completely before storing to preserve flavors and freshness.
Can I freeze this dish?
Very! However, I advise against freezing this creamy dish, as dairy sauces tend to separate when thawed, which affects the texture and quality. If you want to store it, consider freezing the ravioli and chicken separately from the sauce.
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What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! If your creamy sauce seems too thick after combining it with the ravioli, just add a splash of the reserved pasta water, stirring gently until you achieve your desired creamy consistency. This is a great way to keep the sauce rich without compromising flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
The creamy sauce contains dairy and the ravioli may contain gluten. If you’re accommodating dietary needs, you could substitute the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream for a dairy-free version, and look for gluten-free ravioli options available in stores.
How can I elevate the flavors even more?
To enhance the flavors, I often recommend using high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs. You might also consider adding a splash of white wine when cooking the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes—this will deepen the flavor and give it a lovely aromatic quality that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Ravioli in Under 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil the Ravioli: Cook frozen ravioli in boiling salted water according to package instructions. Reserve 120 ml of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet. Add boneless chicken, seasoned with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden.
- Add Flavorful Ingredients: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sliced green onions, and parsley. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 0.5 cup of chicken broth. Reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Ravioli and Sauce: Gently mix in drained ravioli and 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
- Serve with Love: Plate immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.