Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Short Description

Creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta is a rich, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, a velvety garlic Parmesan sauce, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes tossed with pasta. This easy, restaurant-quality meal is perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy – A luscious, velvety sauce coats every bite.
• Packed with flavor – Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy, slightly sweet contrast.
• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable – Use different pasta, add veggies, or make it spicy.
• Perfect for meal prep – Reheats well for a delicious next-day meal.

Ingredients

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

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced thin)
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper

For the Pasta & Sauce:

• Pasta (penne, fettuccine, or linguine)
• Butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• Spinach (optional, for extra greens)
• Fresh basil (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta – Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Season and cook the chicken – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Make the sauce – In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for 1-2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth and let simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Add cream and cheese – Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until thickened (about 3 minutes).
5. Combine everything – Slice the chicken and return it to the pan. Add cooked pasta and spinach (if using), tossing to coat. Use reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
6. Garnish and serve – Sprinkle with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve warm!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Vegetarian alternative – Swap chicken for mushrooms or tofu.
• Lighter option – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Cheesy upgrade – Stir in mozzarella for an extra creamy sauce.
• Low-carb version – Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use jarred sun-dried tomatoes in oil?

Yes! Drain them before chopping and use some of the infused oil for extra flavor.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Penne, linguine, or fettuccine hold the creamy sauce well.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a bit more Parmesan for thickness.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta or serve over zucchini noodles.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Try mushrooms, bell peppers, or asparagus.

What protein can I use instead of chicken?

Shrimp, salmon, or even sausage work great in this recipe.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer longer, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tsp water).

What side dishes go well with this pasta?

Garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the sauce separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta when serving.

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

Add a splash of broth or cream while reheating to maintain creaminess.

Conclusion

Creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta is a rich, satisfying dish packed with bold flavors and an irresistibly smooth sauce. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this easy recipe is sure to impress. Try it today for a creamy, comforting meal!

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