If you’re craving a dish that combines comforting creaminess with vibrant flavors, this One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender chicken pieces cooked to golden perfection, mingling with tangy sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach in a luscious sauce that clings lovingly to every bite of perfectly cooked pasta. It’s rich, satisfying, and yet surprisingly simple to make—all in a single pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy every delicious forkful. This recipe is a treasure for weeknights or anytime you need a flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients often make the biggest difference, and this recipe is no exception. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture, from the savory chicken to the sun-dried tomatoes that add a chewy, tangy punch, and the fresh spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. Let’s dive into the essentials that come together to create magic.
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: The star protein, tender and perfect for absorbing the rich sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing chicken and vegetables, adding a subtle fruity essence.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that infuses Mediterranean flair.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a gentle kick of heat for balance.
- 1 cup shallots, diced: Offers sweet, mild onion notes and tender texture.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Bursts of tanginess that brighten the creamy sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic for a punchy, aromatic foundation.
- 2 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that cooks the pasta and enriches the sauce.
- 1 cup medium pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle): The perfect shape to capture the creamy sauce in every bite.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Adds color, nutrition, and a tender leafy texture.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates that irresistibly creamy, silky sauce texture.
- ½ cup parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and salty depth that elevates the dish.
- ½ cup milk: Balances richness and helps smooth out the sauce.
- Fresh basil, for garnish: A fragrant, fresh finish that brightens the whole plate.
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, plus salt and pepper to taste. Sauté them until they’re beautifully golden on the outside and cooked through—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to keep all that juicy flavor intact.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same pot, add a touch more olive oil if needed, then toss in diced shallots, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Sauté everything for 2 to 3 minutes until the shallots soften and the aromas fill your kitchen. This step unlocks the sweetness of the shallots while the sun-dried tomatoes add their signature tangy complexity.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a lively boil. Add your choice of medium pasta—whether it’s penne, fusilli, or farfalle—and reduce the heat to medium. Let the pasta cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking. Just before the pasta is perfectly al dente, stir in fresh spinach so it wilts gently into the mix, adding vibrant color and a fresh bite.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Now for the creamy magic: stir in softened cream cheese and parmesan until they melt smoothly into a rich, luscious sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the pot along with the milk. Carefully stir everything together and cook until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is heated through. This step guarantees a comforting sauce that clings to every piece of pasta and chicken.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
All that’s left is to serve your masterpiece. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle some extra parmesan on top for a bright, herbal finish. Serve this dreamy pasta hot, and enjoy the blend of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors that make this One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe a new favorite in your rotation.
How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are the perfect aromatic touch that lightens and freshens every bite. You can also add an extra sprinkle of parmesan for a salty, umami pop that makes the dish feel extra special. A drizzle of good olive oil or a few crushed red pepper flakes can add a bit more personality if you like.
Side Dishes
Since this pasta is richly satisfying, simple sides work best. Consider a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to add freshness and balance. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is fantastic for sopping up leftover sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli provide a nutritious contrast without competing with the main flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, serve this One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe in individual bowls garnished with basil and parmesan shavings for a rustic yet elegant look. Alternatively, plate it on large serving dishes sprinkled with edible flowers or microgreens to elevate your presentation. You can even spoon leftovers into small ramekins for grab-and-go lunches that taste just as delightful warmed up.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from this recipe keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it chills, so be sure to stir it gently before reheating to restore the creamy texture.
Freezing
To freeze, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags. It’s best eaten within 1 to 2 months for optimal flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge to minimize texture changes.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth as needed to loosen the sauce. Microwaving works too; just stir every 30 seconds to ensure even heating without drying out the creamy pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne, fusilli, or farfalle work best for capturing the sauce, you can also use rigatoni, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta depending on your preference or dietary needs.
Is sun-dried tomato paste a good substitute?
You can swap chopped sun-dried tomatoes with sun-dried tomato paste for an intense burst of flavor. Just reduce the quantity since paste is more concentrated, and add it with the sauce ingredients.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and parmesan with plant-based alternatives, and use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. The texture and flavor will be a bit different but still delicious.
What if I want more veggies in my pasta?
Feel free to toss in extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini when sautéing the shallots and garlic. It’s a great way to bulk up the meal with more color and nutrients.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Just use a larger pot to ensure there’s enough space for everything to cook evenly. Make sure to stir frequently, especially when cooking the pasta, to prevent sticking as quantities increase.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe has quickly become one of those go-to dishes that feels both indulgent and easy to pull together. The combination of creamy sauce, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, and tender chicken makes every bite truly delightful. Whether you’re cooking for your family or want a comforting solo dinner, I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen too!
Print
One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy cheeses all cooked together in one pot for easy preparation and minimal cleanup. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it features a rich, cheesy sauce with a hint of spice and freshness from spinach and basil.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 cup shallots, diced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Liquids & Dairy
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup parmesan cheese
- ½ cup milk
Pasta
- 1 cup medium pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season them with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken until it is golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed. Add the diced shallots, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Sauté these ingredients for 2 to 3 minutes until they have softened and released their flavors, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the Pasta: Pour the chicken broth into the pot and bring it to a boil. Add the pasta to the boiling broth, then reduce the heat to medium. Cook the pasta for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is al dente. About one minute before the pasta is done, stir in fresh spinach to wilt it gently.
- Make the Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the softened cream cheese and parmesan cheese until both are fully melted and combined into a creamy sauce. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot along with the milk. Stir everything together and cook until the chicken is heated through and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Serve: Remove the pot from heat and garnish the creamy chicken pasta with fresh basil leaves and extra parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use medium pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle for best results; these hold the sauce well.
- To make it spicier, increase the red pepper flakes slightly, or omit them for a milder dish.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil can add extra flavor; if using dry-cured ones, soak them before chopping.
- For a thicker sauce, reduce the milk slightly or cook uncovered for a few extra minutes to concentrate the sauce.
- Fresh basil garnish adds brightness but can be omitted or substituted with parsley if preferred.
