If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful meal that comes together in one pot with minimal fuss, then you’re going to adore this One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s a beautiful harmony of tender chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and luscious cream that coats perfectly cooked pasta in every bite. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a time-saver for busy weeknights, delivering rich Italian-American flavors without a pile of dirty dishes. Let me walk you through everything you need to create this brilliant, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding depth of flavor, creaminess, or freshness. The simplicity here is what makes the dish truly shine, as every element complements the others perfectly.
- Olive oil: Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for a fragrant, smooth base that gently sautés the chicken and garlic.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces, this protein cooks quickly and stays juicy.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano and basil, it brings a classic Italian flavor to the chicken.
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory undertone complementing the fresh garlic.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
- Fresh garlic: Minced to release that irresistible aroma and punch up the flavor.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Chopped and drained, these give a tangy, slightly sweet bite that pairs wonderfully with creamy sauce.
- Penne or favorite short pasta: Ideal for soaking up the sauce and blending with other ingredients.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Creates the cooking liquid that infuses the pasta and chicken with deep savory notes.
- Heavy cream: Turns the dish into a luscious, velvety masterpiece that coats every piece of pasta.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nuttiness and richness, making the sauce beautifully creamy.
- Baby spinach (optional): A fresh, vibrant addition that wilts into the dish for color and nutrients.
- Fresh basil (optional): Garnishing with basil adds fragrance and elegant color to the final presentation.
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Browning the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces seasoned with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring every now and then, until each piece is lightly browned and thoroughly cooked. This step locks in juices and builds a flavorful foundation for the pasta.
Step 2: Sautéing Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Next, stir in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté these for 1 to 2 minutes just until fragrant. This step is key since you want the garlic to release its aroma without burning, and the sun-dried tomatoes to soften just enough to meld into the upcoming sauce.
Step 3: Cooking the Pasta in Broth
Add the uncooked pasta to the pot along with the chicken broth. Give everything a good stir so nothing sticks to the bottom, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking and to check that it’s tender and most of the liquid has soaked in.
Step 4: Finishing with Cream and Cheese
After the pasta reaches the perfect texture, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce is smooth, rich, and all the ingredients are perfectly combined. If you’re opting for baby spinach, add it now and stir until it wilts into the creamy sauce, adding a lovely pop of green and some fresh flavor.
How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Serving this pasta with fresh basil leaves not only amps up the visual appeal but also introduces a subtle herbal brightness that beautifully balances the creamy, tangy elements. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese is also a welcome touch if you want that extra cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
If you want to round out your meal, consider pairing this dish with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread. These sides bring freshness and crunch to contrast the creamy pasta, making every bite balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in shallow bowls topped with a drizzle of olive oil and a few whole sun-dried tomatoes or cherry tomatoes on the side. You can also plate it alongside grilled vegetables or a roasted bell pepper to elevate the colors and textures on the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers of the One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated within two hours of cooking. This helps keep the chicken tender and the sauce creamy without drying out or developing off-flavors.
Freezing
This dish freezes well but is best frozen without the fresh spinach, as it can become mushy when thawed. To freeze, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 to 3 months for optimal freshness and taste.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its velvety texture. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent the sauce from breaking or becoming grainy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is great because it holds the sauce well, other short pastas like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle work just as beautifully in the One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap out the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or artichoke hearts, or even some plant-based chicken alternatives. Just be sure to use vegetable broth to keep it meat-free.
Can I use sun-dried tomatoes not packed in oil?
You can, but if you do, rehydrate them in hot water before using to soften. Using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil gives extra flavor and a pleasant richness, making the sauce even tastier.
What’s the best way to add a bit of spice to this dish?
For some heat, sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the chicken or sprinkle on top before serving. It adds a subtle kick that elevates the flavors without overpowering the creaminess.
How can I make this recipe quicker on busy nights?
Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Add it at the end to warm through instead of cooking raw chicken, which cuts down the overall cooking time significantly while still keeping the dish delicious.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t beat the combination of simplicity, comfort, and rich flavor that the One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe delivers. It’s perfect for those nights when you want to impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen. So keep this gem tucked in your recipe collection — it’s lightning fast to make and always leaves everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try and experience why this creamy, tangy pasta has quickly become one of my favorite go-to dishes!
Print
One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
A delicious and creamy one-pot sun-dried tomato chicken pasta that combines tender chicken, flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. This easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, with optional spinach for added greens and fresh basil for a fragrant garnish.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Aromatics and Vegetables
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped, packed in oil and drained
- 2 cups baby spinach (optional)
Main and Dairy
- 12 ounces penne or your favorite short pasta
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces along with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through.
- Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pot. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and the garlic is soft.
- Add Pasta and Broth: Pour in the uncooked pasta and the low-sodium chicken broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer Pasta: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish with Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add Spinach (Optional): If using, fold in baby spinach and stir gently until wilted, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the creamy pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use sun-dried tomatoes packed in herb-infused oil.
- Swap in rotisserie chicken to reduce cooking time for a quicker meal.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.
