Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that combines tender chicken, luscious cream sauce, and the rich, tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is exactly what you need. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet comes together in under 30 minutes. The creamy sauce coats every strand of pasta beautifully, while the sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of concentrated flavor that elevates the whole dish. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant taste and comforting texture.

Why This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Stands Out

What makes this recipe unique is how effortlessly it blends simple ingredients into a dish that tastes gourmet. Unlike heavy cream sauces that can feel overwhelming, the addition of sun-dried tomatoes introduces a tangy depth that balances the richness. The diced chicken is seasoned just right, making every bite juicy and flavorful without overshadowing the pasta. Plus, finishing with fresh basil adds a refreshing herbal note, rounding out the flavors perfectly. You’ll find it’s a versatile recipe — great for meal prep, family dinners, or even cozy date nights.

What You’ll Need

• 8 oz pasta of choice (fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni work well)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil preferred for extra flavor)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Hardware & Gadgets

• Large pot for boiling pasta – essential for perfectly cooked noodles
• Large skillet or frying pan – for sautéing chicken and making the sauce
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – to stir without scratching your pan
• Knife and cutting board – to dice chicken and chop sun-dried tomatoes
• Grater – for fresh Parmesan cheese

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Made Stepwise

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of 8 oz pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later, and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken breast with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 2 minutes to release their flavor. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine with the tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Continue to simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Add the drained pasta and toss gently to coat every piece with the rich sauce. Cook together for a minute to marry the flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately, enjoying the comforting warmth and vibrant flavors of this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta.

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

• Heavy cream: Use coconut cream or a blend of cashew cream and almond milk for a dairy-free alternative.
• Parmesan cheese: Nutritional yeast or dairy-free Parmesan substitutes work well.
• Chicken breast: Firm tofu or chickpeas can be used for a vegetarian version.
• Pasta: Gluten-free pasta or spiralized vegetables like zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

What Not to Do

• Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be just cooked through to stay juicy.
• Avoid boiling the pasta too long; al dente texture absorbs the sauce better.
• Do not skip reserving pasta water – it’s key to adjusting the sauce consistency.
• Don’t rush adding the cheese; add it slowly off the heat to prevent clumping.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen up the sauce. For best taste and texture, avoid freezing this dish as cream sauces can separate when thawed.

Questions People Ask

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more richness and remain very tender when cooked. Just dice them similarly and adjust cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through.

Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary for this recipe?

They’re essential for the tangy depth that defines this pasta, but if you don’t have them on hand, you can substitute with roasted red peppers for a milder flavor.

What type of pasta works best?

This recipe is versatile with pasta shapes. Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni all hold the creamy sauce well. Choose your favorite or what you have available.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative, and choose whole wheat or vegetable-based pasta. Adding steamed veggies like spinach or broccoli can add volume without heaviness.

Keep Cooking

• For another flavorful chicken pasta, try the Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta that’s packed with herbs and a rich sauce.
• If you love combining veggies and chicken in pasta, the Chicken Asparagus Mushroom Pasta is a fantastic choice.
• Craving a simpler skillet meal? Check out the Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Skillet for a quick, one-pan dinner.

The Takeaway

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta recipe hits all the right notes with its luscious sauce, tender chicken, and that unmistakable sun-dried tomato tang. It’s straightforward to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights when you want a comforting meal without the fuss. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish will quickly become a favorite go-to that’s both delicious and satisfying. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil to add that final fresh touch that brightens every bite.

Enjoy your cooking journey with this creamy, flavorful pasta dish that truly stands out!

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