Luscious Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe

Weeknight dinners demand a showstopper, and this creamy sun dried tomato chicken pasta recipe delivers pure comfort on a plate.

Tender chicken nestles among perfectly cooked pasta, swimming in a luscious sauce that promises pure satisfaction.

Bright, tangy sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of Mediterranean flavor to every single bite.

The richness of the cream melds beautifully with aromatic herbs and savory spices.

Protein-packed and incredibly satisfying, this dish comes together faster than you can order takeout.

Each forkful brings a symphony of textures and tastes that will make your taste buds dance with delight.

Dive into this restaurant-worthy meal that turns an ordinary evening into a culinary celebration.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30-35 minutes

Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Calories: 485 kcal

Servings: 5

Ingredients That Power Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

• Olive Oil: Provides a smooth base for sautéing and adds rich, fruity undertones to the dish.
• Garlic Powder: Delivers concentrated garlic essence without chopping, ensuring even flavor distribution.
• Italian Seasoning: Blends aromatic herbs that instantly elevate the chicken's taste profile.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Introduces a subtle, warming heat that can be adjusted to personal spice preference.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Fundamental seasonings that balance and intensify the overall flavor.

• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that absorbs seasonings beautifully and provides substantial texture.
• Shallots: Delicate allium that offers a milder, more sophisticated onion flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh cloves that bring a pungent, aromatic kick to the sauce.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Concentrated, tangy nuggets that add depth and a Mediterranean flair.
• Pasta: Sturdy shapes like fusilli or penne that perfectly capture the creamy sauce.

• Chicken Broth: Creates a light, flavorful liquid base for cooking pasta and developing sauce.
• Baby Spinach: Tender, nutrient-packed green that wilts seamlessly into the dish.
• Cream Cheese: Adds luxurious creaminess and helps thicken the sauce.
• Whole Milk: Provides smooth, rich consistency to the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Brings a sharp, salty dimension and helps bind the sauce.

Tools for Cooking Chicken and Pasta Smoothly

• Large deep skillet or pot: Essential for cooking chicken, sautéing vegetables, and making the entire pasta dish.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring and scraping brown bits from the pot's bottom.
• Cutting board: Needed for chopping shallots, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil.
• Sharp knife: Required for precise ingredient preparation.
• Measuring spoons: Helps accurately add seasonings and oil.
• Plate: Used for temporarily holding cooked chicken.

Instructions for Building This Creamy Dish

• Chicken Preparation

Sizzle chicken in a hot skillet with a splash of olive oil. Season generously with aromatic spices, creating a golden exterior that promises incredible flavor. Cook until perfectly tender and set aside.

• Flavor Foundation

Introduce shallots, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic to the same pan. Their vibrant aroma will transform the cooking space. Deglaze with chicken broth, capturing every delicious caramelized bit from the bottom.

• Pasta Magic

Add pasta directly into the liquid, letting it simmer and absorb all the rich flavors. Toss in fresh spinach during the final moments, allowing it to wilt naturally and add a pop of green vibrancy.

• Creamy Transformation

Melt cream cheese and Parmesan into the mixture, creating a silky sauce that hugs each pasta strand. Return the chicken to the pan, stirring gently to marry all ingredients into a harmonious dish.

• Final Touch

Garnish with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. The result is a comforting meal that tells a story of deliciousness in every single bite.

Tomato, Herb, or Cheese Adjustments You’ll Love

• Cooking Tips & Variations
• Protein Power Switch: Swap chicken with shrimp, turkey, or white beans for a different protein experience that keeps the meal exciting and versatile.
• Spice Level Control: Adjust red pepper flakes to make the dish mild or fiery hot, allowing each cook to personalize heat intensity according to their preference.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in extra vegetables like roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to increase nutritional value and add delightful texture and color to the pasta.
• Dairy-Free Magic: Replace cream cheese with cashew cream or dairy-free alternatives to create a lactose-free version that doesn't compromise on richness and flavor.
• Herb Garden Twist: Experiment with different fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or parsley instead of basil to create unique flavor profiles and keep the dish interesting.

Serve Pasta That Feels Restaurant-Ready

• Dinner Party Delight: Wow your guests by serving this pasta in individual white ramekins, garnished with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color.
• Rustic Italian Plating: Create a restaurant-style presentation by placing the creamy pasta on a large wooden board, allowing guests to serve themselves family-style with extra Parmesan on the side.
• Wine Pairing Perfection: Complement the rich, creamy flavors with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light Chardonnay that cuts through the dish's decadence and enhances the sun-dried tomato notes.
• Side Dish Companions: Serve alongside a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted garlic bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce and add a fresh contrast to the meal.

How to Store Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

• Smart Batch Cooking: Whip up a double batch of this delicious pasta and store extra portions in airtight containers for quick weeknight meals. Refrigerated meals stay fresh for 3-4 days, making busy schedules a breeze.
• Freezer-Friendly Strategy: Cool the pasta completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Sealed portions maintain top-quality flavor for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creamy texture.
• Lunch Prep Champion: Pack individual servings in meal prep containers for grab-and-go lunches. The sun-dried tomatoes and chicken provide protein that keeps you satisfied throughout the day. Separate the basil garnish until serving to prevent wilting.
• Temperature Revival Trick: When reheating, use low-medium heat and stir frequently. Add a small amount of chicken broth or milk to revive the sauce's silky consistency. Avoid microwaving too long to prevent sauce separation and maintain the pasta's delightful creamy character.

Irresistible Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Indulgent creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta brings Italian-inspired comfort to weeknight dinners. Garlic, herbs, and tender chicken meld into a luxurious sauce that welcomes you to savor each delectable bite.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb (16 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
• 8 oz uncooked fusilli or penne pasta
• 2 oz low-fat cream cheese, room temperature
• 2 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups packed baby spinach
• ½ cup diced shallots
• ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, grated
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• 1 ½ tsps Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Distribute chicken pieces evenly, seasoning with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Cook until golden and fully done, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a separate plate.
2. Create Flavor Base: In the same skillet, sauté shallots, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic until aromatic. Deglaze with chicken broth, scraping browned bits to intensify flavor. Bring liquid to a vigorous boil.
3. Cook Pasta and Spinach: Add uncooked pasta directly into boiling broth. Simmer on medium heat, stirring to prevent sticking. In the final minute, fold in fresh spinach, allowing leaves to wilt and integrate seamlessly.
4. Develop Creamy Sauce: Melt cream cheese and Parmesan, stirring until smooth and velvety. Reintroduce chicken, pour milk, and blend thoroughly. Simmer 3-5 minutes to thicken sauce and harmonize flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
5. Finish and Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an elegant presentation and flavor enhancement.

Notes

• Chicken Cooking Tip: Ensure chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
• Pasta Cooking Technique: Stir pasta frequently to prevent sticking and achieve uniform cooking, creating perfect al dente texture.
• Sauce Consistency Hack: Mix cream cheese and Parmesan slowly to create a smooth, lump-free sauce that coats ingredients evenly.
• Flavor Boosting Trick: Scrape browned bits from skillet bottom to unlock deep, rich flavor complexities that elevate the entire dish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 485
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 390 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 55 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 92 mg