creamy chicken & sundried tomato pasta.

This comforting and flavour-packed pasta dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner. With the goodness of roasted peppers, creamy ricotta, and a touch of tangy sun-dried tomatoes, it’s both delicious and gut-friendly. Serves 2 and takes about 25 minutes to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 200g pasta

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 chicken breasts 

• 1 tin of chopped tomatoes

• 120g ricotta cheese

• 60g roasted red peppers (from a jar), drained

• 60g sundried tomatoes

• 1 parmesan rind (optional, for added flavour)

• 1 tbsp olive oil 

• 1 tbsp capers (for garnish)

• 30g grated parmesan cheese (for garnish)

• Olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until golden and fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and let rest while you prepare the sauce.

Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Whilst the pasta is cooking, in a blender, combine the tinned tomatoes, roasted red peppers, and sundried tomatoes. Blend until smooth.

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in the same pan used for the chicken. Sauté the onion until softened, then add the garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in the blended tomato mixture and add the parmesan rind (if using). Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stir in the ricotta cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with some of the reserved pasta water.

Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring it’s fully coated.

Slice the chicken breasts into thin pieces. Plate the pasta, then place the sliced chicken on top.

Sprinkle grated parmesan and capers for a tangy, fresh finish. Serve warm and enjoy!

Gut Health Benefits

Tomatoes and peppers are rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function and helps maintain healthy skin. Ricotta cheese is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and vitamin B12, all of which are important for muscle health and bone strength. Capers add a punch of flavour, while also providing various B vitamins and vitamin E, known for their antioxidant properties and skin benefits.

Storage:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the hob or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or stock to loosen the sauce.