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: 8 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice; 2 chicken breasts, diced; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 3 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Planning

I absolutely love making Chicken Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes! It’s a dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, tender chicken, and al dente pasta for a delightful meal. The combination of basil and garlic gives it an aromatic touch that always has my family asking for seconds. One of my favorite parts is how quickly it comes together—perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become a staple in your home.

Created by

Questa Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-03-29T05:42:55.744Z

When making this Chicken Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes, I learned the importance of using high-quality sun-dried tomatoes. They add not just flavor but also a beautiful burst of color. I usually soak them in a little olive oil before adding them to the dish, which enriches their taste and ensures they blend smoothly into the sauce. This little tip really elevates the flavor profile!

Another trick I love is using reserved pasta water to tweak the consistency of the sauce. It’s a fantastic way to get that perfect creamy texture without adding extra calories. Use just enough to make it luxurious and smooth. It makes a remarkable difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Bursting with flavor from sun-dried tomatoes and basil
Creamy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

Perfecting the Pasta

When cooking the spaghetti, aim for al dente—this means it should be firm to the bite. A good trick is to taste a strand a minute or two before the package states it should be done. If you're concerned about overcooking, undercook it slightly since it will continue to cook once combined with the sauce. Make sure to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining; it can be a lifesaver in adjusting the sauce consistency later.

Using the right type of pasta can enhance your dish. While spaghetti is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with linguine or penne for a different texture. If you prefer whole wheat or gluten-free options, these can work too, just monitor the cooking time as they can vary significantly from traditional pasta.

Enhancing Flavor with Ingredients

The sun-dried tomatoes are the star here, offering a rich, concentrated flavor. They contribute a slight sweetness paired with a tangy kick that balances beautifully with the creaminess of the sauce. If you can find oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, they often have more flavor and moisture—just pat them dry if you wish to control the oiliness of the final dish.

Don't underestimate the impact of fresh basil. I recommend using it just when you're about to serve to keep its vibrant color and aromatic qualities intact. If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, dried basil can substitute, but add it during the cooking process to allow it to rehydrate and release its flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will meld together even more as it sits. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat. If the sauce thickens too much, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water will help bring it back to its creamy consistency.

For meal prep, you can cook the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time. Just cook the pasta fresh before serving for the best texture. If you want to freeze it, be aware that creamy sauces may separate upon thawing, so consider freezing the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta. This allows you to enjoy a fresh meal without compromising texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare a delicious Chicken Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes:

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice
2 chicken breasts, diced
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
3 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to create a delightful meal!

Instructions

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

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes.

Add Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet with the chicken. Stir for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

Create the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and combined.

Combine Pasta and Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta and fresh basil to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Serve

Spoon the delicious Chicken Pasta onto plates and garnish with extra Parmesan and basil if desired. Enjoy!

Your Chicken Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes is ready to be savored!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Variations to Try

Switching up the protein can lead to exciting variations. Try substituting shrimp or cooking diced vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a vegetarian option. If using seafood, adjust the cooking time as shrimp will only need about 3-4 minutes until they're opaque and firm. If using vegetables, add them after the chicken is cooked to ensure they maintain some crunch.

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic. This subtle heat complements the richness of the cream sauce beautifully. Alternatively, a sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving adds brightness that enhances the overall flavors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to reduce and thicken. Conversely, if it's too thick, gradually adding reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency is the way to go. Keep in mind that the sauce will thicken further as it cools down.

For unevenly cooked chicken, ensure your pieces are cut into uniform sizes of about 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking. If you ever encounter raw chicken in the midst of cooking, cover the skillet to retain heat and finish cooking—this can speed things up and help maintain moisture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta you enjoy, such as penne or fettuccine.

→ Can I substitute heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version.

→ How long does leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

While it's best fresh, you can freeze it in a container for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.