Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Dish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta is the perfect combination of rich flavors, satisfying textures, and easy preparation. The sun-dried tomatoes add a deep, tangy sweetness that balances the creamy sauce, while the tender chicken provides a hearty protein boost. Whether you’re making this for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
• Salt, for boiling water

For the chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil, drained)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ cup fresh spinach (optional, for extra greens)

For garnish:

• Fresh basil, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken

• Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
• Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

• In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
• Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
• Reduce heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Stir well.
• Let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Combine Everything

• Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
• Add the cooked chicken and spinach, letting the spinach wilt in the sauce.
• Toss in the cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein options: Swap chicken for shrimp or Italian sausage for a different twist.
• Dairy-free: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
• Extra veggies: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for more texture and flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If your sauce thickens too much, add reserved pasta water or extra chicken broth while stirring.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, but sun-dried tomatoes provide a richer flavor. Fresh tomatoes may need extra seasoning to balance the sauce.

What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?

Penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni work best as they hold onto the creamy sauce well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. When ready to serve, cook the pasta fresh and combine.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not very, but you can increase or decrease the red pepper flakes to adjust the heat level.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Heavy cream gives the best texture, but whole milk or half-and-half can be used with a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken.

How do I make the sauce extra creamy?

For an ultra-creamy texture, stir in an extra tablespoon of butter or a small amount of cream cheese.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Can I add cheese other than Parmesan?

Yes! Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.

How do I make it a one-pan meal?

Cook the pasta first, set it aside, and use the same pan for the chicken and sauce, reducing cleanup.

Conclusion

Creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta is a perfect balance of rich, creamy, and tangy flavors. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, it’s an ideal dish for any occasion. Try it out and customize it to your liking—you won’t be disappointed!

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