Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

If you are looking for a comforting yet elegant dish, Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is the perfect choice to satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests. This recipe brings together tender chicken, the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious creamy sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta. It’s a harmonious blend of rich flavors and textures that deliver a memorable meal with every bite, making it an essential addition to your weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich yet approachable flavors: The creamy sauce combined with sun-dried tomatoes and tender chicken creates an irresistible flavor profile everyone will enjoy.
• Simple ingredients, big impact: With just a handful of pantry staples, you get a gourmet-tasting dish no one will believe was so easy to make.
• Quick to prepare: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for dinner when time is tight but cravings are strong.
• Customizable and versatile: Adapt the dish easily for dietary preferences, swapping out chicken for other proteins or adjusting creaminess to your liking.
• Perfect for leftovers: The flavors deepen overnight, making this pasta just as delicious (if not more) the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is carefully chosen to enhance taste, texture, and color. These simple essentials work together to create a dish that looks as good as it tastes.

• Chicken breasts: Tender and lean, they provide the perfect protein base for this pasta dish.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: These add a burst of umami and vibrant color, balancing the creaminess beautifully.
• Heavy cream: Creates the silky, luscious sauce that makes this pasta feel truly indulgent.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic brings warmth and depth without overpowering the other flavors.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty kick and helps thicken the sauce for that perfect coating consistency.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings freshness and complexity to the dish.
• Pasta of choice: Typically fettuccine or penne, these shapes hold the creamy sauce well.
• Olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and garlic, imparting subtle fruitiness and richness.
• Fresh basil: A finishing touch for brightness and extra aroma in every forkful.

Variations for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

This recipe invites creativity, making it easy to tailor to your preferences whether you’re looking for a twist or accommodating dietary needs.

• Vegetarian swap: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a delightful meat-free version.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the heat subtly.
• Dairy-free alternative: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a luscious non-dairy sauce.
• Protein variation: Swap chicken for grilled shrimp or turkey breast to change the flavor profile.
• Fresh tomato substitute: Use sun-dried tomato pesto or fresh cherry tomatoes for a different texture and flavor balance.

How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through. Remove and let rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use with the sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

In the same skillet used for chicken, add a touch more olive oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds, then stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute to release their flavors.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic and tomatoes. Add grated Parmesan cheese gradually while stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Adjust thickness by adding reserved pasta water as needed.

Step 5: Combine It All

Add the cooked chicken and pasta back into the skillet, tossing everything gently to coat with the luxurious sauce. Finish with torn fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

• Chicken prep matters: Pound chicken breasts evenly for uniform cooking and tender results.
• Use quality sun-dried tomatoes: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes offer more flavor and a softer texture.
• Don’t overcook pasta: Aim for al dente to maintain texture after mixing with sauce.
• Reserve pasta water: The starchy water helps the sauce cling to pasta perfectly without thinning it too much.
• Low and slow with cream: Avoid boiling after adding cream to prevent curdling and keep the sauce silky smooth.

How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh basil, extra Parmesan shavings, and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper add visual appeal and flavor contrast to this creamy dish.

Side Dishes

Pair with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette or roasted asparagus to balance the richness and add freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in fun pasta bowls or rustic cast iron skillets for a cozy, inviting presentation. Add edible flowers or microgreens for a unique pop of color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, though the texture of the cream sauce may slightly change; freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce’s creamy texture without drying out the pasta.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs remain juicy and flavorful, but adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.

Is sun-dried tomato paste a good substitute?

Yes, sun-dried tomato paste can intensify the tomato flavor but use less as it is more concentrated than chopped sun-dried tomatoes.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely swap regular pasta for gluten-free varieties like brown rice or chickpea pasta—just watch the cooking times for the best texture.

What wine pairs well with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the creamy sauce and tomato tang perfectly.

Can I lighten this recipe for a lower-calorie option?

Try using half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese to make a lighter yet still tasty version.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a true gem of a recipe that combines simplicity, rich flavors, and a comforting feel in every bite. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or treating friends and family, this dish is sure to become a beloved favorite. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how easily a few quality ingredients come together to create such a satisfying meal.

Related Posts

• How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Tonight
• Creamy White Queso Enchiladas with Shredded Chicken Delight
• Why Queso Chicken Enchiladas Are Irresistible

Print