If you’re craving a comforting yet vibrant pasta dish, look no further than this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta. It strikes the perfect balance between rich, luscious cream sauce and the tangy depth of sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped around tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne. This recipe is a delightful way to transform simple ingredients into a weeknight dinner that feels special enough for guests but easy enough for any day.

Why It Deserves a Spot

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta deserves a regular spot in your dinner rotation because it’s:

Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Full of flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning adds a punch that elevates everyday chicken pasta.
Comforting and creamy: The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create a sauce that’s indulgent without being overwhelming.
Versatile: You can swap in your favorite pasta shapes or add extra veggies to customize it your way.
Family-friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

If you love dishes like this, you might also enjoy the Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta, which brings a fresh herbaceous twist to creamy chicken pasta dinners.

What’s in the Bowl

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering pasta:

8 oz penne pasta: Holds onto the sauce beautifully with its ridged tube shape.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and garlic to golden perfection.
1 lb chicken breast, cubed: Lean protein that cooks quickly and stays tender.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth and warmth.
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: The star ingredient that delivers a tangy, slightly sweet punch.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety sauce.
1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory flavor and helps balance the cream.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for authentic Italian flair.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to bring everything together.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that nutty, salty finish that defines creamy pasta sauces.
Fresh basil for garnish: Adds a fresh herbal note and a pop of color.

Essential Tools for Success

To get this dish just right, these tools will come in handy:

Large pot: For boiling the penne pasta to al dente perfection.
Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook the chicken and prepare the sauce in one place.
Colander: To drain the pasta efficiently.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring without scratching your cookware.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
Grater: Freshly grated Parmesan always elevates the flavor.

Step-by-Step: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Sauté the chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add the cubed chicken breast, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Build the sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in 1 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Pour in 1 cup chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Combine everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Add the drained penne pasta and toss everything together. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce coats the pasta beautifully. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately for the best creamy texture and fresh flavor.

For a different take on creamy chicken pasta dishes, try the Creamy Mushroom Chicken Alfredo Bake, which adds hearty mushrooms and a baked finish.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

Sun-dried tomatoes: Swap for roasted red peppers to add a smoky sweetness.
Heavy cream: Use coconut cream or full-fat plain yogurt for a lighter twist.
Chicken broth: Substitute with vegetable broth for a slightly different flavor profile.
Fresh basil: Try fresh parsley, oregano, or thyme depending on what’s in season.
Parmesan cheese: Use Pecorino Romano or a plant-based cheese alternative if preferred.

If you love the idea of swapping sun-dried tomatoes for roasted veggies, the Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Penne is a fantastic recipe to explore.

Author’s Commentary

This recipe was born out of my love for bold flavors paired with creamy textures. The sun-dried tomatoes bring a concentrated tanginess that cuts through the richness of the cream and cheese, keeping the dish balanced and exciting. Using cubed chicken breast ensures quick cooking and keeps the meat juicy and tender.

One of my favorite tips is to always reserve some pasta water—it’s magical for loosening thick sauces without watering down the flavor. Fresh basil is more than a garnish here; it adds a brightness that really lifts the entire dish.

This is the kind of dinner that feels indulgent but comes together with minimal effort, making it a reliable favorite for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Let any leftovers cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight container. This pasta keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat: Warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to restore creaminess.
Microwave: Cover loosely and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
Freezing: This dish freezes best without the fresh basil garnish. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reader Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and add extra juiciness and flavor. Just be sure to cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking and adjust cooking time if needed.

What if I don’t have heavy cream on hand?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese for a lighter sauce. Another option is to use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free twist, which will still keep the sauce rich and creamy.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. You can also add plant-based protein alternatives. Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth will complete the vegetarian adaptation.

How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

To thicken the sauce, let it simmer a little longer uncovered, or stir in a small amount of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water). To thin it out, add reserved pasta water, broth, or a splash of milk gradually until the desired consistency is reached.

Next Up in Your Queue

Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta – A fresh and herbaceous variation that’s equally decadent.
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Alfredo Bake – Perfect for mushroom lovers craving a baked pasta dish.
Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Penne – A smoky, colorful pasta that’s a fantastic alternative to sun-dried tomatoes.

The Takeaway

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is an unbeatable combination of tangy, creamy, and savory elements that come together for a comforting meal any night of the week. With tender chicken, flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce coating every bite of penne, it’s a recipe that pleases every palate with ease. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish promises to satisfy with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Give it a try tonight—you might just find your new go-to pasta dinner!

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