Chicken Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes

Name: Chicken Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Ideas

I absolutely love making Chicken Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes because it combines rich flavors with a delightful texture. The sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of umami that elevates the dish, while the tender chicken and pasta create a satisfying meal. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, and it always impresses when I share it with friends or family. Give it a try—you’ll find it’s cozy, comforting, and simply delicious!

Created by

Frederica Houghton

Last updated on 2026-02-28T02:45:35.520Z

When I first experimented with Chicken Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes, I wanted to create something quick yet bursting with flavor. I found that using high-quality sun-dried tomatoes really makes a difference; they provide a sweet yet tangy flavor that complements the chicken beautifully. The creamy sauce binds everything together, creating a dish that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.

One tip I learned is to sauté the sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil before adding them to the pasta. This enhances their flavor even more and allows the oil to carry that delicious aroma throughout the dish. Trust me, it’s a small step that results in significant flavor!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Rich and vibrant flavors that delight the palate
Creamy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta
Quick and easy to make for busy weeknights

Crafting the Perfect Sauce

The sauce for Chicken Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes is what truly brings this dish to life. The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a luxurious texture that beautifully clings to the pasta. When adding the cream, ensure you heat it gently to avoid curdling; simmer on low for best results. Look for the sauce to thicken slightly before tossing in the pasta—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The right consistency should be creamy but not too runny, allowing it to evenly coat every bite.

Sun-dried tomatoes serve a vital role in the flavor profile of this dish. They add a concentrated burst of umami that balances the richness of the cream perfectly. If you're using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, consider draining off some of the oil but saving a teaspoon to add to the skillet for extra flavor during the sautéing process. For a lighter touch, you can substitute some of the heavy cream with chicken broth, creating a more broth-like sauce without losing creaminess.

Texture & Flavor Tips

When cooking the chicken, ensure it's diced into even pieces to guarantee uniform cooking. If your chicken breast is particularly thick, you might want to butterfly it first or even pound it slightly before dicing to facilitate quicker cooking. Look for a golden brown color on the outside, which indicates the Maillard reaction is happening—this not only enhances flavor but also adds a beautiful visual appeal to your dish.

As you toss the pasta with the sauce, consider using a pair of tongs instead of a spoon. This will give you better control while combining the ingredients and help to keep the penne intact. If you find the pasta sticky after draining, a quick drizzle of olive oil can help maintain its texture and prevent clumping when you combine it with the sauce.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz penne pasta
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Steps

Cook the Pasta

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown, about 7-10 minutes.

Add the Garlic and Tomatoes

Stir in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to combine until well coated. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in Italian seasoning before cooking. You can also substitute the pasta with your favorite variety, such as fettuccine or spaghetti.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Chicken Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes can be prepped ahead for a quick dinner on busy nights. You can cook the chicken and sauce in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Just cook the pasta fresh right before serving to ensure it doesn’t become mushy. When ready to enjoy, reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce as needed.

For longer storage, this dish can be frozen before baking. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating. Adding a fresh sprinkle of Parmesan and basil just before serving will bring back that delicious fresh taste.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the dining experience, consider pairing your Chicken Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes with a side salad or garlic bread. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can complement the richness of the dish brilliantly. Alternatively, fresh bread can be used to mop up any leftover sauce, adding a rustic element to your meal.

For an intriguing variation, try swapping the penne for a more unique pasta shape like farfalle or orecchiette. Each shape holds the sauce differently, creating a new experience each time you make this recipe. You can also experiment with adding seasonal veggies, like spinach or zucchini, to the mix for added nutrients and a pop of color!

Questions About Recipes

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

Absolutely! While sun-dried tomatoes offer a concentrated flavor, fresh tomatoes can add a different texture and freshness. Just sauté them longer to enhance their sweetness.

→ What can I serve with this pasta dish?

This dish pairs nicely with a simple green salad or garlic bread on the side for a complete meal.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat and add the pasta when you're ready to serve.

→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

While it can be frozen, the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture.