Baked Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that combines the rich, tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes with tender chicken and comforting pasta, then this Baked Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is here to delight your taste buds. It’s a hearty, cheesy, and vibrant meal that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or when you want something cozy yet packed with flavor. The mix of tender penne pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheese baked to golden perfection makes this recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why I Love This Recipe

What makes this Baked Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta stand out is its effortless combination of fresh and pantry ingredients that come together in one pan for an easy bake. The sun-dried tomatoes add a deep, sweet tang that pairs beautifully with the succulent chicken and fresh spinach. Plus, the garlic and Italian herbs infuse every bite with warmth and flavor, while the cheeses create a luscious, melty topping that’s utterly irresistible. It’s comfort food that feels special but is simple enough for busy weeknights. If you enjoy recipes like the Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta, you’ll appreciate this baked twist that brings a delightful texture and ease in preparation.

Ingredient List

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment Breakdown

• Large pot – for boiling the pasta
• Colander – to drain the pasta
• Large mixing bowl – to combine all ingredients
• Baking dish (9×13 inch recommended) – for baking the pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for mixing
• Knife and cutting board – for chopping chicken, tomatoes, and garlic

The Method for Baked Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 9-11 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne, diced chicken, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, and minced garlic. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Toss everything gently to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Mix in half of the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese into the pasta mixture. This will help create a cheesy, flavorful base before baking.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the combined pasta mixture into your baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheeses to create a golden, bubbly crust.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top. The tomatoes will be soft and the spinach will be perfectly wilted.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. For a quick variation, try the flavorful Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet which shares some of these same beloved ingredients but in a skillet-friendly form.

Health-Conscious Tweaks

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free penne pasta to increase fiber or accommodate dietary needs.
• Swap mozzarella for part-skim or reduced-fat cheese to cut down on saturated fat.
• Increase the amount of fresh spinach or add other greens like kale for added nutrients.
• Use grilled or roasted chicken breast to reduce any added fats from cooking.
• Reduce olive oil slightly or substitute half with low-sodium chicken broth to lower calories.

Testing Timeline

• Boiling the pasta to al dente: 9-11 minutes
• Combining ingredients and prepping the dish: 10 minutes
• Baking time: 20-25 minutes
• Total time from start to finish: Approximately 40-45 minutes

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

This baked pasta is fantastic for leftovers and meal prep. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months.

To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from drying out during reheating.

Quick Questions

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

While fresh cherry tomatoes add great freshness, sun-dried tomatoes bring a concentrated, tangy sweetness that defines the flavor profile of this dish. You can use fresh tomatoes, but the taste will be milder and less intense.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also add plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas to keep it hearty and satisfying.

What’s the best way to cook the chicken for this pasta?

Using cooked, diced chicken breast is ideal. You can grill, roast, or pan-sear the chicken seasoned lightly with salt and pepper. Leftover rotisserie chicken works well too, making this recipe even easier to prepare.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the pasta mixture and place it in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This is perfect for busy days when you want dinner ready to pop in the oven.

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Save & Share

If you try this Baked Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta, don’t forget to save the recipe for later and share it with friends and family who love easy, flavorful meals. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate every time you make it.

This baked pasta recipe offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, combining the robustness of sun-dried tomatoes with tender chicken and melted cheese for a satisfying meal. Whether served on a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy every bite!

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