The aroma of creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace. Picture the rich, velvety sauce clinging to each piece of tender chicken and al dente pasta, while bursts of tangy sun-dried tomatoes add a playful pop of flavor that makes your taste buds dance.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to cozy family dinners and casual get-togethers with friends. I recall whipping up this recipe for a spontaneous dinner party, only to have everyone ask for seconds (and thirds) because they simply couldn’t resist the deliciousness on their plates. For more inspiration, check out this delicious dinner recipes.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is a breeze to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that looks as good as it tastes
- It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or an elegant gathering
- Plus, leftovers make for an amazing next-day lunch!
The reactions from my friends as they savored each bite were priceless; I could almost hear their taste buds applauding.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use 3-4 chicken breasts, but feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
- Pasta: Any shape works well, but I recommend fettuccine or penne for the best sauce clinging action.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality tomatoes packed in oil for maximum flavor and easy incorporation into the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: This is what gives the sauce its luscious texture; don’t skimp on this heavenly ingredient.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are crucial here; they elevate the dish with their aromatic charm.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for that nutty depth; it melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition; toss it in at the end for a vibrant finish.
- Olive Oil: A splash of good olive oil helps sauté everything perfectly without sticking.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all those flavors together harmoniously.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a large pot and fill it with water; season generously with salt. Bring that water to a boil because we’re about to cook our pasta!
While waiting for the water to bubble like it’s auditioning for a role in “Finding Nemo,” let’s prep our chicken. Season both sides of your boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil until shimmering.
Once hot, add your seasoned chicken breasts; cook them until golden brown on both sides—about 6-7 minutes per side should do it. Remove from the skillet and let them rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces that will be swimming in creamy goodness.
Now, back to our boiling water! Toss in your pasta and let it cook until al dente—check package directions for timing. While that’s happening, we’ll whip up our sauce. In the same skillet used for chicken (no need to wash away those glorious flavors), add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Next, pour in heavy cream and bring it gently to a simmer. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add spinach last—stir until it wilts down into this dreamy mixture!
Once your pasta is ready, drain it (save some pasta water just in case you want to thin out your sauce later). Combine cooked pasta with that luscious creamy sauce in the skillet along with sliced chicken—toss gently so every noodle gets coated!
Finally, serve immediately while piping hot—trust me when I say you want this creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes straight from the skillet onto your plate!
Enjoy every last bite as you bask in the compliments from family or friends who will definitely request this recipe again!
You Must Know
- This creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is a crowd-pleaser
- The rich flavors and textures create a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate
- With easy steps and simple ingredients, you’ll impress everyone at the dinner table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect results, sear the chicken first before cooking the pasta while preparing the sauce. This method ensures your chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. You can also swap sun-dried tomatoes for fresh cherry tomatoes if desired.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to avoid overcooking the pasta.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor that melts beautifully into your sauce
- Don’t forget to season your pasta water; it makes all the difference in taste
- Lastly, allow the dish to rest briefly before serving to enhance the flavors
Cooking this creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes always reminds me of family gatherings filled with laughter and delicious food shared around the table. For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips for dinner recipe.
FAQ
Can I use different proteins in this creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes?
Absolutely! Shrimp or turkey both work wonderfully as alternatives.
What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes available?
You can substitute them with roasted red peppers for a similar flavor profile.
How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
Simply replace chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas to keep it hearty and satisfying.

Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, velvety sauce. Enhanced by tangy sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with family and friends. With its comforting flavors and simple preparation, every bite feels like a warm embrace.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; cook chicken until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and let rest.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan; stir until smooth.
- Incorporate fresh spinach until wilted. Slice chicken and combine it with the cooked pasta in the skillet; toss to coat evenly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (230g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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