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
Scale
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.
