Chicken Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes

Name: Chicken Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g pasta of your choice; 2 chicken breasts, diced; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Ideas

I absolutely love the combination of chicken and sun-dried tomatoes in this pasta dish. It creates a wonderful balance of flavors that keeps me coming back for more. The creaminess of the sauce, combined with a hint of tanginess from the tomatoes, makes every bite a delight. Plus, it's quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become a staple in your dinner rotation!

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-02-27T23:13:35.753Z

When I first experimented with this Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, I didn’t expect the flavors to meld together so beautifully. I learned that simmering the pasta with the sun-dried tomatoes creates a deliciously creamy sauce, which locks in all those tasty juices. It’s a game changer!

One key tip I discovered along the way is to let the sun-dried tomatoes soak in the pasta water for a few minutes before adding them to the sauce. This enhances their flavor and makes the dish more robust and satisfying. Try it, and you’ll taste the difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory chicken paired with tangy sun-dried tomatoes
Creamy sauce that hugs every strand of pasta
Quick and easy, perfect for busy nights

Perfecting Your Chicken

When cooking the chicken for this dish, ensure that your skillet is adequately heated with olive oil before adding the diced chicken. This prevents it from steaming and helps achieve that desired golden-brown exterior, which adds depth to the overall flavor profile of the meal. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. If you notice any sticking, gently loosen it with a spatula to achieve that perfect sear.

For a more intense flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs such as thyme or oregano for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This not only infuses the chicken with additional herbs but also helps it remain juicy while juxtaposing perfectly with the tartness of the sun-dried tomatoes.

The Role of Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes bring an outstanding balance of tanginess and umami to this dish. Their concentrated flavor complements the richness of the heavy cream, while also lending a subtle sweetness that bridges the cream and the savory components. If you can, opt for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes; the oil not only retains moisture but enhances the overall dish and makes sautéing easier.

Should you not have sun-dried tomatoes on hand, consider using roasted red peppers as a substitute. They provide a different flavor but retain a similar texture and color. If substituting, be mindful of the moisture content; you may want to reduce the amount of heavy cream slightly to ensure the sauce isn't too watery.

Make-ahead and Storage Tips

This Chicken Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes can be prepped in advance, making weeknight dinners even simpler. You can cook the pasta and the chicken ahead of time; just make sure to toss them with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply reheat everything in the skillet and follow the steps to combine with the sauce.

If you find yourself with leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to four days in the refrigerator. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to rehydrate the sauce. If you wish to freeze this dish, do so before combining with the cream, as dairy-based sauces tend to separate when thawed. Simply add the cream and Parmesan after thawing.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chicken Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes

400g pasta of your choice
2 chicken breasts, diced
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth process.

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, then remove from skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the pasta is well coated with sauce. Finally, return the chicken to the skillet.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes!

Remember to adjust the seasoning to your taste before serving!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, add some crushed red pepper flakes for a slight kick!

Flavor Variations

While this recipe shines with its classic combination, don't hesitate to experiment. Adding spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking adds color and boosts nutritional value. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a dash of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.

If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider replacing heavy cream with a blend of low-fat milk and Greek yogurt. Just mix it in at the end on low heat to avoid curdling, which will keep the creamy texture without adding too many calories.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the pasta. If you're entertaining guests, consider serving it alongside garlic bread for an extra touch of comfort.

For a more elevated meal, you could plate the pasta in bowls, then drizzle with a balsamic reduction for a gourmet touch. This adds a visually striking layer of flavor that surprises the palate and complements the cream and sun-dried tomatoes beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

You can use whole grain pasta and reduce the amount of cream or substitute with a lighter version.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just combine them before serving.

→ What can I add for more flavor?

Consider adding spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrients.