Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re anything like me, a comforting bowl of creamy pasta is basically a hug on a plate—and this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly that kind of recipe. Creamy, tangy sun dried tomatoes meet tender, perfectly seasoned chicken in a silky sauce that clings to every twist of pasta. I love how the sun dried tomatoes add such a rich, savory pop without overpowering the dish, making it totally crave-worthy any night of the week.

This recipe works amazingly well when you want something quick but still feel like you’ve cooked a fancy meal. It comes together in under an hour, and trust me, your family will go crazy for this creamy, cheesy pasta that somehow manages to be both indulgent and fresh. Plus, it’s an easy one-pot wonder, so cleanup is a breeze—definitely a win-win!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together to create a creamy yet light pasta that feels indulgent without being heavy. I always recommend using good quality sun dried tomatoes and fresh basil for the best flavor.

• Olive oil: The base for sautéeing your chicken and veggies, adding a subtle fruity note.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and easy eating.
• Garlic powder: Adds savory depth without the risk of burning fresh garlic during chicken cooking.
• Italian seasoning: Brings a classic blend of herbs that pairs perfectly with tomato and cream flavors.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat goes a long way to brighten this creamy dish.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning everything just right.
• Diced shallots: Provide a delicate onion flavor that’s sweeter and less harsh than regular onions.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic adds vibrant flavor when sautéed with shallots and tomatoes.
• Sun dried tomatoes: The star ingredient—drain well and chop finely so they blend beautifully into the sauce.
• Uncooked fusilli or penne pasta: These pasta shapes hold the sauce well in their grooves and tubes.
• Low sodium chicken broth: Keeps the sauce flavorful without being too salty.
• Baby spinach: Adds color, nutrition, and a hint of earthy freshness just before the dish finishes.
• Low fat cream cheese: Melts into the sauce to create that irresistible creamy texture without too much heaviness.
• Whole milk: Lightens up the cream cheese while still keeping the sauce rich and smooth.
• Shredded parmesan cheese: A sharp, salty finish that brings the whole dish together.
• Fresh basil: Adds a fresh, herbal note right before serving.

Variations

I love how versatile this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe is, so I often switch it up depending on what’s in the fridge or my mood. Don’t hesitate to make it your own and experiment with the flavors!

• Vegetarian version: I’ve swapped the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or crispy tofu, and it’s still just as satisfying.
• Spicy kick: Adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika really amps things up, which my spice-loving friends adore.
• Different greens: Kale or arugula work great in place of spinach and add a nice texture contrast.
• Cheese swap: Sometimes I use gouda or a bit of mozzarella for a creamier, gooey sauce.

How to Make Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken to Perfection

Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large, deep skillet or pot. Spread the bite-sized chicken pieces in a single layer so they brown evenly. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes for just a hint of heat. Cook for 6-8 minutes until the chicken is nicely browned and fully cooked through, flipping occasionally. Take the chicken off the heat and set it aside on a plate to keep warm—you’ll add it back later to soak up all those amazing flavors.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

If your pot looks dry, add a bit more olive oil, then toss in the diced shallots, chopped sun dried tomatoes, and grated garlic. Keep the heat medium and sauté for about 2 minutes until everything is fragrant and the shallots start to soften. Pour in the chicken broth next, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pot—they’re packed with flavor! Bring this mixture to a boil to prepare for the pasta.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta and Veggies Together

Once your broth is boiling, add the uncooked fusilli or penne pasta, then reduce the heat to medium to maintain a gentle simmer. Stir often to prevent sticking and cook the pasta until just al dente, typically 15-20 minutes, depending on your pasta choice. During the last minute of cooking, toss in the baby spinach and stir until it wilts beautifully—this gives the dish a lovely fresh pop of color and adds some greens without any fuss.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Turn the heat to low and stir in the room temperature cream cheese and shredded parmesan. Mix until the cheeses are melted and smooth, blending perfectly into the broth and pasta. Add the cooked chicken back to the pot along with the milk, stirring everything until the sauce thickens nicely and heats through—this usually takes 3-5 minutes. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese for that final flourish.

How to Serve Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I always top my creamy sun dried tomato chicken pasta with freshly chopped basil—something about that raw herb just adds a bright, fresh aroma that cuts through the richness perfectly. A sprinkle of extra shredded parmesan or a few twists of freshly ground black pepper never hurt, either.

Side Dishes

My go-to sides include a simple crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that creamy sauce. Roasted veggies like asparagus or broccoli also work beautifully and add a nice texture contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, I like plating this pasta in shallow bowls, then topping each serving with a sprig of fresh basil and a little drizzle of high-quality olive oil for a glossy finish. Adding a small side bowl of extra grated parmesan lets guests customize their cheesy experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta stores great in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend adding a splash of milk or broth when reheating to loosen up the sauce, since pasta tends to soak up liquid overnight.

Freezing

While I usually prefer fresh for this recipe, it does freeze fairly well if you pack it tightly in a freezer-safe container. Just know that the texture of the spinach may change slightly after thawing, so you might want to leave the greens out when freezing and add fresh spinach when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring in a little milk or broth to refresh the sauce’s creaminess. Microwave works too, but do it in short bursts and stir well to avoid hot spots or drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites to pull together on busy evenings when I want something delicious but fuss-free. The blend of creamy sauce, savory chicken, and sun dried tomatoes feels like a little luxury that’s easy to make at home. I hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as I do—trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll turn to again and again!

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