Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized 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

By:

Sarah

Published:

January 12, 2026

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Why This Recipe Works

One of the best parts about Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is how it manages to balance flavors so well. The creamy sauce complements the tangy sun-dried tomatoes, creating a delightful kick that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, it’s all made in one pot, which means you can spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal. Adding nutrient-rich spinach and lean chicken also makes this dish a wholesome choice. The combination of ingredients not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a nutritious option, perfect for the health-conscious foodie.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

This recipe is designed for those evenings when you want something quick, yet absolutely delicious. Imagine strolling into your kitchen after a long day, whipping up an impressive meal in just about 30 minutes. That’s exactly what this Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta offers. It feels like comfort food, simultaneously sophisticated enough to impress anyone at a dinner party. Whether you’re hosting friends or just enjoying a cozy night in, the comforting flavors and creamy texture are bound to win over hearts and stomachs alike.

Ingredients for Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized 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

Prepare the Chicken

Sauté the Chicken

Start by heating a large deep skillet over medium-high heat and adding the olive oil. Once it’s hot, toss in the chicken pieces in a single layer, then season them with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and, if you like a bit of heat, the red pepper flakes. Sauté the chicken for about 6-8 minutes until it’s fully cooked. You want it golden brown and cooked through, with a wonderful aroma filling your kitchen.

Sauté Shallots and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

After the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. If the pan looks a little dry, drizzle in a bit more oil. Then, add the diced shallots, sun-dried tomatoes, and grated garlic to the skillet. Sauté these for about 2 minutes until everything becomes fragrant and aromatic. This step adds layers of flavor that will really make your creamy sauce shine.

Cook the Pasta

Boil Chicken Broth

Now, it’s time to pour in that chicken broth. As it goes in, make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot. This will help you release any delicious browned bits from the chicken and shallots. Bring that broth to a boil, letting it bubble up until you’re ready.

Cook Pasta to Al Dente

When the broth is boiling, stir in the uncooked fusilli or penne pasta. Lower the heat to medium and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. Remember to stir often, so the pasta doesn’t stick together. You want it to be al dente—perfectly cooked, with just a little bite to it.

Add Spinach and Cheese

Incorporate Spinach

As you’re nearing the end of the pasta cooking time, add in the baby spinach during the last minute of cooking. Stir it in and watch as it wilts down beautifully in the heat. It not only adds a pop of color but also boosts the nutrition of this dish.

Mix in Cream Cheese and Parmesan

Once the spinach has wilted, stir in the cream cheese and shredded Parmesan. Mix until it’s all melted and combined, creating that luscious, creamy sauce that makes this pasta dish unforgettable.

Combine and Serve

Final Touches

Now, it’s time to bring the chicken back into the mix. Add the cooked chicken pieces back into the pot along with the whole milk. Give everything a good stir and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes. This will thicken the sauce a bit. Don’t forget to taste; adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Garnish and Serve

When everything looks just right, take the skillet off the heat. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese on top for a lovely finish. This not only enhances the flavors but makes it look stunning as well.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a refreshing side salad, perhaps dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon. Garlic bread is also a great companion, perfect for mopping up that creamy sauce. If you’re feeling fancy, why not enjoy it with a glass of crisp white wine?

Tips for Success

Good quality sun-dried tomatoes make a significant difference, elevating the overall taste of your meal.
Cooking times may vary depending on the type of pasta you use, so keep an eye on it.

Variations

If you’re looking to mix things up, consider swapping the chicken for shrimp or even tofu for those meatless meals. For the pasta, you could use whole wheat or gluten-free options, depending on your dietary needs.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave. You might need to add a splash of broth to loosen it up a bit.

FAQs

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

Sure, but keep in mind you’ll need to adjust your cooking time and add extra seasoning to enhance the flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It holds up well and tastes just as delicious even after a few days in the fridge.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, by using dairy-free cream cheese and a non-dairy milk, you can easily make it dairy-free.

How can I add more vegetables?

Feel free to toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to boost the nutrition and flavor profile.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

Vegetable broth or even water can work in a pinch, but the flavor might slightly differ.

This Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is truly a dish that warms the stomach and soul. A lovely balance of creamy textures and vibrant flavors is waiting to be featured in your kitchen. Enjoy making it for yourself, your family, or friends and gather around the table for a meal that’s as delightful to share as it is to eat.

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Ingredients for Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta