Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: A Comforting and Flavorful Dish

If you’re craving a rich and satisfying meal, this Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is the perfect choice. With tender chicken, a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy & Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Restaurant-Quality Flavor: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with deliciousness.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients or add veggies to suit your taste.
• One-Pan Recipe: Minimal cleanup required!

Ingredients

To make this rich and creamy pasta dish, you’ll need:

• 200g (7 oz) pasta (penne or fettuccine works best)
• 2 chicken breasts, sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream (for a smooth and rich sauce)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds depth and saltiness)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried oregano (for a classic Italian touch)
• ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• ½ cup spinach (optional, for added nutrition and color)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add sliced chicken, season with black pepper and oregano, and cook for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
• Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

• In the same pan, add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Pour in the heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
• Add chili flakes (if using) and let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes to thicken.

Step 4: Combine Everything

• Return the cooked chicken to the pan and add the drained pasta.
• Toss everything together to coat in the creamy sauce.
• Stir in spinach (if using) and cook for 1 more minute until wilted.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

• Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil (optional).
• Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, flavorful pasta dish!

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Creamy Chicken Pasta with:

• Garlic bread for extra indulgence
• A fresh side salad to balance the richness
• A glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The creamy sauce may separate, but it can be frozen for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta? Yes! Any pasta shape works, but short pasta like penne or rigatoni holds the sauce well.

Can I make it lighter? Substitute half-and-half or Greek yogurt for heavy cream, and use grilled chicken instead of pan-fried.

What other veggies can I add? Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini would be delicious additions!

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is the perfect combination of comfort and elegance. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. Try it tonight and let the flavors speak for themselves!