Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup diced shallots; 2 cloves garlic (grated); 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped); 8 ounces uncooked fusilli or penne pasta; 2 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth; 2 cups packed baby spinach; 2 ounces low-fat cream cheese (room temperature); 1 cup whole milk; 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese

Published: July 13, 2025

by kaeli

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.
Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and sun-dried tomatoes creates a luxurious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with spinach and lean chicken, this dish provides both flavor and nutrition.
Versatile Dish: Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of pasta according to your preference.

Tools and Preparation

To make this creamy pasta dish, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large deep skillet or pot
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large deep skillet or pot: Provides enough space to cook all ingredients together, ensuring even cooking.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, helping to mix the flavors thoroughly.

Ingredients

This Italian inspired one pot creamy sun dried tomato chicken pasta is made with seasoned chicken, spinach, and a creamy garlic sun dried tomato pasta sauce.

Main Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/2 cup diced shallots
2 cloves garlic (grated)
1/3 cup sun dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
8 ounces uncooked fusilli or penne pasta
2 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
2 cups packed baby spinach
2 ounces low fat cream cheese (room temperature)
1 cup whole milk
1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil

How to Make Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Add a tablespoon of olive oil to a large deep skillet or pot. Heat the oil over medium-high heat.
– Add in the chicken pieces in a single layer.
– Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes if desired.
– Sauté the chicken for 6-8 minutes until cooked through.
– Remove the chicken onto a plate.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

If needed, add additional oil to the pot.
– Add in the shallots, sun dried tomatoes, and grated garlic.
– Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
– Pour in the chicken broth while scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot.
– Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 3: Cook Pasta & Add Spinach

Pour in the uncooked pasta and lower the heat to medium.
– Cook until al dente for about 15-20 minutes while stirring often.
– During the last minute of cooking, add in the baby spinach and stir until wilted.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

Stir in cream cheese and shredded parmesan until melted and fully incorporated.
– Add the cooked chicken back into the pot along with whole milk.
– Stir everything until the sauce thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
– Taste for seasoning adjustments before removing from heat.
– Top with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese before serving.

Enjoy this delicious Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta as an easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to impress!

How to Serve Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil on top for added flavor and a pop of color.
Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness and a vibrant green contrast.

Pair with Crusty Bread

Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the creamy sauce.
Ciabatta: A slice of ciabatta bread complements the pasta beautifully.

Add a Splash of Color

Cherry Tomatoes: Halve some cherry tomatoes and toss them into the pasta for freshness.
Grilled Vegetables: Grilled zucchini or bell peppers add a smoky flavor and texture.

Serve with Salad

Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well with the richness of the pasta.
Mixed Greens: Light mixed greens drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette balance the meal.

How to Perfect Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips. They’ll ensure your dish is creamy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and quality sun dried tomatoes enhance flavor and texture.
Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed for balance.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: This prevents overcooking when combined with sauce, keeping it firm and delicious.
Stir Constantly: Stirring frequently helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking of the pasta.
Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving helps thicken the sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Complementing your Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta with sides can round out your meal nicely. Here are some great options to consider:

Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic butter are perfect for dipping.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add brightness.
Roasted Asparagus: Simple roasted asparagus seasoned with olive oil makes a nutritious side.
Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic provides a crunchy contrast.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy option that complements creamy dishes well.
Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and cured meats adds variety to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

Skipping the seasoning: Failing to adequately season the chicken and sauce can lead to bland pasta. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente for the best texture.
Not using room temperature cream cheese: Cold cream cheese can clump in the sauce. Ensure it’s at room temperature for smooth incorporation.
Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality sun dried tomatoes or broth may diminish flavor. Opt for high-quality ingredients to enhance your dish.
Rushing the sauce: Allowing the sauce to thicken slowly enhances flavor. Don’t rush this step; give it the time it needs.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
The Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Allow the pasta to cool completely before freezing.
Use a freezer-safe container or bag; it can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
Stovetop: In a skillet, add a splash of water or milk and reheat over medium-low heat, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While fusilli or penne work great, you can substitute with any pasta you prefer.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your chicken broth is also gluten-free for a safe option.

Can I add vegetables to my Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! Consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

How spicy is this recipe?

The red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted based on your spice preference. Omit them for a milder dish.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is not only rich and satisfying but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this one-pot wonder is sure to impress!