Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Tender chicken is combined with a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce, perfectly coating al dente pasta for a comforting meal that’s quick to prepare. The savory blend of Parmesan, garlic, and fresh herbs makes this dish irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced)
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
• Fresh basil or parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything to coat evenly in the sauce.
8. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
9. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
• Cheesy Delight: Stir in extra mozzarella or feta for a cheesy boost.
• Protein Swap: Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu instead of chicken.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use sun-dried tomatoes in oil?

Yes, just drain them slightly before chopping and using in the recipe.

What type of pasta works best?

Penne, fettuccine, or linguine work well, but any pasta can be used.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and store the pasta and sauce separately. Combine and reheat when ready to serve.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Spinach, peas, or bell peppers make great additions.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer the sauce longer or add a bit more Parmesan to thicken.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Yes, but the texture may change slightly. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently.

What sides go well with this dish?

A green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement it perfectly.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be less rich. Consider adding a thickener like cornstarch.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting dry when reheating?

Add a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a decadent, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and full of bold flavors. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and savory sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

Print