Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato & Chicken Fettuccine

INGREDIENTS:

For the Pasta & Chicken:

12 oz fettuccine pasta
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Sauce:

1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
½ cup reserved pasta water (for adjusting sauce consistency)

For Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped

DIRECTIONS:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1️⃣ Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine until al dente, following package instructions.
2️⃣ Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1️⃣ Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2️⃣ Season the chicken strips with salt and black pepper, then sauté until golden brown and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes).
3️⃣ Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1️⃣ In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
2️⃣ Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
3️⃣ Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4️⃣ Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine …