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: 2 chicken breasts, diced; 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne); 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Favorites

I absolutely love making Chicken Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes! The combination of tender chicken, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and al dente pasta creates a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor. Every time I prepare this meal, it feels like a warm hug on a plate. I enjoy serving it to guests or savoring it on a cozy night in, paired with a glass of white wine. It's quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste or presentation.

Created by

Elodie Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-03-18T03:11:33.440Z

When I first attempted this Chicken Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes, I was blown away by how a few simple ingredients could come together to create such richness in flavor. The sun-dried tomatoes add an incredible depth that elevates the whole dish. I learned that adding a splash of pasta water at the end helps to bind the sauce and gives it that silky texture we all crave.

To perfect my method, I like to sauté the garlic before adding the chicken, letting it infuse the oil with its robust flavor. Keeping the chicken juices in while cooking ensures tenderness and moisture, which is essential. I always sprinkle fresh basil on top just before serving—this brings a bright freshness that balances the dish wonderfully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Flavorful sun-dried tomatoes enhance the dish's richness
Tender chicken creates a satisfying meal
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights

The Star Ingredients

Sun-dried tomatoes play a pivotal role in this recipe, contributing a depth of flavor that fresh tomatoes simply can’t replicate. Packed with umami, they infuse the dish with a slightly sweet and tangy taste, balancing perfectly with the creaminess of the sauce. If you're short on time, store-bought sun-dried tomatoes are great, but consider trying your hand at making your own for an even richer flavor.

Chicken breast is another essential component, providing protein and heartiness. Dicing the chicken into uniform pieces helps them cook evenly, ensuring that you achieve a nice golden sear. If you're in the mood for something different, swap the chicken for shrimp or even tofu to make this dish vegetarian-friendly, but adjust cooking times accordingly for different proteins.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the chicken in a skillet is crucial for developing flavor. Medium heat is ideal for allowing the chicken to brown without burning. Be sure to avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches to achieve that perfect golden color. This browning creates a delicious fond at the bottom of the skillet, which will enhance the overall flavor of your sauce.

Another key technique is to incorporate the pasta into the sauce rather than the other way around. This allows the pasta to absorb the flavorful sauce, enhancing the dish’s richness. If the sauce thickens too much, remember to use reserved pasta water—just a little splash can make a world of difference in achieving that desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Chicken Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. This combination not only rounds out your meal but also provides a lovely contrast of textures and flavors. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top adds a delightful crunch and complements the dish beautifully.

If you want to switch things up, try adding veggies like spinach or zucchini to the mix. They can be sautéed with the garlic to brighten the dish and add nutritional value. Just keep in mind to reduce the cream slightly so the sauce doesn’t become too rich and heavy with the added ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to start your cooking adventure:

Main Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, diced
8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to make this delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Chicken Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the diced chicken. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and chicken broth, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth.

Mix with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing to combine everything. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin it out.

Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh basil, more Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious home-cooked Chicken Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in Italian seasoning before cooking. Adding spinach or arugula just before serving can also give a fresh twist.

Storage and Reheating

This Chicken Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, keep in mind that pasta tends to absorb sauce as it sits, which can lead to drier leftovers. To combat this, add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to rehydrate the dish and restore its creamy consistency.

When reheating, opt for a gentle approach. You can use the microwave or the stovetop—just be sure to do so over medium-low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Stir occasionally until heated through, and don’t forget to taste and adjust for seasoning before serving.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Add in some chopped sun-dried tomato pesto for extra flavor, or mix in a handful of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus to bring in a pop of color and nutrition. For a kick of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be an excellent addition.

If you're looking to lighten up the recipe, consider using whole grain pasta or swapping out the heavy cream for a lighter option, such as Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream. These alternatives will still provide creaminess while keeping the calorie count lower.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe serves about 4 people, but it’s easily scalable for larger gatherings. Simply double or triple the quantities, keeping the same ratios. Just ensure you have a large enough pot and skillet to accommodate everything while maintaining an even cooking temperature, as overcooking can result from overcrowding.

When scaling up, consider timing adjustments as well. Larger quantities may take a few extra minutes to cook, especially when boiling pasta or sautéing chicken. Keep an eye on visual cues, like the chicken turning golden brown, and ensure the pasta is cooked to al dente texture.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you'll need to cook them down more to achieve the same concentration of flavor.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative for a lighter option.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the pasta with a gluten-free variety.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time, but it’s best enjoyed the day it’s made to ensure the pasta remains al dente.