Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta: A Flavorful and Comforting Meal

Have you ever sat down to a meal that felt like pure comfort on a plate? Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is one of those dishes that warms your heart and delights your taste buds with every bite. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor from tender chicken, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant Italian herbs. And the best part? You can whip it up in under 30 minutes for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, making a special family meal, or just indulging yourself after a long day, this recipe is bound to become a new favorite. So grab your skillet, and let’s dive into this irresistible dish!

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

There’s no shortage of reasons to fall in love with this pasta dish:

• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The sauce is made with cream cheese, Parmesan, and milk, creating a velvety texture that clings to every bite of pasta.
• Savory and Tangy Flavors: The sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning deliver bold, vibrant flavors that balance beautifully with the creaminess.
• Nutritious Additions: Baby spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients, making this dish feel indulgent but balanced.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one skillet means fewer dishes and an easier cleanup!
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap the protein, or experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste.

Ingredients for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this creamy, comforting pasta dish:

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Olive oil	1 tablespoon	For cooking the chicken and adding flavor.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)	1 pound	The main protein for the dish.
Garlic powder	1/2 teaspoon	Enhances the flavor of the chicken.
Italian seasoning	1 1/2 teaspoons	Adds classic Italian herb flavors.
Red pepper flakes (optional)	1/4 teaspoon	Adds a hint of spice (optional).
Salt	To taste	Balances the overall flavor.
Black pepper	To taste	Adds a mild heat and depth.
Diced shallots	1/2 cup	Provides sweetness and aromatic flavor.
Garlic (grated)	2 cloves	Adds rich, savory notes to the dish.
Sun-dried tomatoes (drained and finely chopped)	1/3 cup	Provides tangy, sweet, and savory notes.
Uncooked fusilli or penne pasta	8 ounces	Forms the base of the dish.
Low-sodium chicken broth	2 1/2 cups	Adds moisture and depth of flavor to the pasta.
Baby spinach (packed)	2 cups	Adds freshness and a pop of color.
Low-fat cream cheese (room temperature)	2 ounces	Creates a creamy base for the sauce.
Whole milk	1 cup	Adds creaminess and smoothness to the sauce.
Shredded Parmesan cheese	1/4 cup	Adds nutty, salty richness to the sauce.
Fresh basil (chopped)	1 tablespoon	Provides a fresh and fragrant garnish.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

1. Cook the Chicken

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken pieces and season them with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
• Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Shallots and Garlic

• In the same skillet, add the diced shallots and grated garlic.
• Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the shallots are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Pasta

• Stir the finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the skillet.
• Add the uncooked pasta and pour in the chicken broth.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

4. Cook the Pasta

• Let the pasta cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

5. Add Spinach and Cream Cheese

• Stir in the baby spinach and cook until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes.
• Add the cream cheese and stir until it is melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.

6. Finish the Sauce

• Pour in the whole milk and add the shredded Parmesan cheese.
• Stir gently until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.

7. Combine and Serve

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta, chicken, and sauce are evenly combined.
• Garnish with chopped fresh basil for a burst of flavor and color.

8. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta hot. Pair it with garlic bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

1. The Sauce

The sauce is the star of this dish, blending cream cheese, milk, and Parmesan for a smooth, velvety texture. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness, while the Italian seasoning ties everything together.

2. One-Pan Convenience

Cooking the pasta directly in the broth not only simplifies the process but also infuses the noodles with extra flavor.

3. Balanced Flavors

The dish strikes the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and tangy flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Nutritional Highlights

Nutrient	Source	Benefit
Protein	Chicken, Parmesan	Supports muscle growth and repair.
Fiber	Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes	Aids digestion and promotes fullness.
Calcium	Milk, cream cheese, Parmesan	Strengthens bones and teeth.
Vitamins	Spinach, shallots	Boosts immunity and overall health.
Healthy Fats	Olive oil	Provides energy and supports heart health.

Tips for Perfecting Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach, basil, and quality Parmesan cheese will elevate the dish’s flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta to ensure it’s cooked to al dente perfection.
3. Control the Heat: When adding the cream cheese and milk, reduce the heat to avoid curdling the sauce.
4. Adjust the Spice Level: Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat, or omit them for a milder dish.
5. Experiment with Proteins: Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even plant-based options for variety.

FAQs About Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti work well in this recipe.

2. How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add more spinach or roasted vegetables for added texture and flavor.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese, almond or oat milk, and a plant-based Parmesan substitute.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed and reheated.

6. What can I serve with this pasta?

Pair it with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.

Why You Should Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Tonight

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting, flavorful experience that brings the best of creamy and savory together. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant spinach, this dish is guaranteed to impress your family and friends while keeping things simple and stress-free in the kitchen.

Try It Tonight!

Don’t wait to treat yourself to this creamy, delicious pasta dish. Gather your ingredients and make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta tonight. It’s quick, satisfying, and destined to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy!

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