If you are craving a dish that warms your soul while delighting your taste buds, the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe is the answer. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta, all cloaked in a velvety sauce bursting with rich cream, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and the comforting hint of garlic and Italian herbs. Every forkful feels like a cozy hug, making it an instant favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe lies in its simple yet impactful ingredients. Each item plays a key role, from the hearty chicken and al dente pasta to the flavorful sun-dried tomatoes and lush Parmesan cheese, creating layers of taste and texture that will keep you coming back for more.
- 10 ounces penne pasta: Holds sauce beautifully with its ridged shape, providing the perfect base.
- 1 and 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender and juicy, the star protein that carries the dish.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and a silky texture to the sauce.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Brings depth and savory flavor that infuses the sauce with warmth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that wonderfully creamy consistency essential for this dish.
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese: Provides a nutty, salty finish that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes: Gives a vibrant punch of tangy sweetness and brilliant color.
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor without overpowering it.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth that complements the chicken.
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning: Brings the essence of Mediterranean herbs front and center.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- Black pepper to taste: Adds a mild heat and balance.
- Olive oil, for sautéing: Helps to cook the chicken to golden perfection without sticking.
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh herbal note and beautiful color contrast.
- Additional grated parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish): For an extra cheesy finish at serving time.
How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly
Start by boiling the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water, following package instructions until just al dente. This ensures the pasta has a slight bite to hold up well against the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Drain and set aside so it’s ready to mingle with the sauce later.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper to amplify the flavor. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes on each side until it is cooked through and develops a gorgeous golden crust. This step locks in juices and develops rich, caramelized notes that make every bite special. Move the chicken to a plate and keep warm while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Build the Flavors with a Creamy Roux
Lower the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet, allowing it to soak up any leftover fond from the chicken for extra flavor. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, just until fragrant but not browned. Then stir in the flour, whisking constantly to create a smooth roux—the foundation that will thicken your sauce into a luscious cream.
Step 4: Whisk in Liquids to Form the Sauce
Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Follow with the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, stirring until everything melts together into a silken, creamy sauce that coats the back of your spoon. This is the heart of the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe—the luscious sauce that will bring all the components together.
Step 5: Add Bold Flavors and Simmer
Incorporate the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. The tomatoes infuse the sauce with a tangy depth while the spices add a warm Mediterranean character. Let this mixture simmer gently, stirring often, until the sauce thickens just right—luxurious but not too heavy.
Step 6: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, slicing them if you prefer bite-sized pieces. Add the reserved penne pasta. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the rich sauce, ensuring each forkful will deliver that signature creamy, tangy, and herbaceous taste that defines this dish.
Step 7: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Plate your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe while it’s warm and inviting—this is when all the flavors shine at their very best. Don’t forget the final touches to make this meal feel extra special.
How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves add a pop of vibrant green and a fresh, slightly peppery herbaceousness that cuts through the creaminess perfectly. A sprinkle of additional grated Parmesan is also lovely, adding salty, melty complexity to each bite. These simple garnishes turn the dish from delicious to truly irresistible.
Side Dishes
Pair this rich and hearty pasta with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette for balance. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette is also wonderful, perfect for scooping up every last bit of that decadent sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add a fresh, nutritious crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party twist, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls topped with a sprig of fresh basil and a shaving of Parmesan. Alternatively, try layering the pasta and chicken in a baking dish, topping with breadcrumbs, and briefly broiling for a golden crust. Presentation can be as simple or as show-stopping as you like!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches.
Freezing
You can freeze the pasta, but be aware that the cream sauce may slightly separate upon thawing. To minimize this, cool the dish completely before freezing in a freezer-safe container, and reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture.
Reheating
Rewarm leftovers on the stove over low heat, stirring often to ensure the sauce stays smooth and creamy. Adding a little extra cream or chicken broth helps refresh the sauce and keeps the chicken moist and tender.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is excellent for holding the creamy sauce, other pasta shapes like rigatoni, farfalle, or rotini will work just as well. Choose whichever shape you love or have on hand.
Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary?
Sun-dried tomatoes add a unique tangy sweetness and rich texture that elevate the sauce, but if you don’t have them, you can substitute with finely chopped slow-roasted tomatoes or even roasted red peppers for a different but still delicious flavor.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
With some adjustments, yes! Use dairy-free butter and substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a creamy non-dairy alternative. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How do I make sure the chicken stays juicy?
Don’t overcook the chicken. Sear it just until golden and cooked through, then allow it to rest before slicing. Cooking at medium-high heat helps seal the juices inside for tender bites every time.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! The Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe reheats well and keeps its flavor and texture, making it a fantastic option for preparing lunches or dinners ahead of time.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe has quickly become one of those comforting staples that you want to cook again and again. Its blend of creamy, tangy, and savory notes harmonizes beautifully with tender chicken and pasta, creating a meal that satisfies every craving. If you’re searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, give this recipe a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich and comforting dish featuring tender seared chicken breasts combined with al dente penne pasta, all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce made from chicken broth, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. Infused with garlic, Italian seasoning, and a hint of paprika, it’s a flavorful meal perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 10 ounces penne pasta
Chicken
- 1 and 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Garnish (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Additional grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil penne in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside for later use.
- Prepare and Cook the Chicken: Season the boneless skinless chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 6 to 8 minutes per side or until they are fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place on a plate; keep warm.
- Make the Roux: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Melt the unsalted butter, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the all-purpose flour, whisking constantly to create a smooth roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
- Add Liquids and Cheese: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Continue whisking until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy without any lumps.
- Season and Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer gently, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta with Sauce: Slice or shred the cooked chicken breasts if desired, then return them to the skillet along with the cooked penne pasta. Toss all ingredients together in the creamy sauce until the chicken and pasta are evenly coated and heated through.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the creamy marry me chicken pasta warm. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional grated parmesan cheese if desired, adding a fresh, aromatic touch to the dish.
Notes
- Ensure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet and tangy flavor; you can substitute with roasted red peppers if preferred.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best melting and flavor.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth to reach desired consistency.
- This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
