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If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful meal that comes together effortlessly, this One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach all enveloped in a dreamy, rich cream sauce. What makes this dish truly magic is how it cooks all in one pot, saving you time without skimping on any of the wonderful flavors that make weeknight dinners feel special. Whether for a family meal or a cozy night in, this recipe delivers mouthwatering satisfaction every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe plays a key role, making the dish vibrant in color, rich in texture, and bursting with flavor. From tender chicken to creamy cheeses, these simple components come together to create a harmonious, satisfying plate.
- Chicken breasts: Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and soak up all the delicious seasoning and sauce.
- Olive oil: Adds a smooth base for sautéing and enhances the richness of the dish.
- Garlic powder and Italian seasoning: These bring an aromatic depth and classic Mediterranean flavors.
- Red pepper flakes: A touch of heat to keep things interesting without overwhelming the palate.
- Shallots: Offer a mild sweetness and gentle crunch to complement the tomatoes and greens.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Give a tangy, slightly chewy burst that elevates the dish’s character.
- Fresh garlic: Infuses robust flavor that deepens the overall taste.
- Chicken broth: The cooking liquid that infuses the pasta with savory goodness.
- Medium pasta: Penne, fusilli, or farfalle hold sauce well and match the dish’s texture.
- Fresh spinach: Adds a pop of color and a nutritious leafy green lift.
- Cream cheese: Creates the luscious creamy sauce base with a subtle tang.
- Parmesan cheese: Melted in for sharp, nutty flavor and smooth texture.
- Milk: Lightens and smooths the sauce for the perfect consistency.
- Fresh basil: The ultimate finishing touch for bright, herbal freshness.
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, and season them generously with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and fully cooked through, usually about 5 to 7 minutes. This step locks in the flavors and textures you want without drying out the meat. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside to make room for your vegetables.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed, then toss in the diced shallots, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Sauté these ingredients for 2 to 3 minutes until they become softened and fragrant, releasing layers of savory and tangy aroma that build the foundation of the dish’s flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the pasta, reduce the heat to medium, and let it cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This unique method allows the pasta to cook right in the broth, soaking up all the wonderful savory notes. During the last minute of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach to gently wilt it without losing that vibrant green color.
Step 4: Make the Sauce and Finish Cooking
Next, stir in the softened cream cheese and parmesan cheese until they melt and blend into the broth, turning it luxuriously creamy. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and pour in the milk, stirring everything together. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is heated through, creating a velvety sauce that clings perfectly to every bit of pasta and chicken.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once everything is luscious and bubbling, ladle portions onto plates or bowls, and top generously with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of parmesan for a beautifully fragrant, rich finish. Your One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe is ready to be devoured!
How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are the star garnish here, adding a burst of color and herbal brightness that cuts through the creamy richness perfectly. For a bit of extra indulgence, don’t hesitate to add a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese just before serving to enhance those savory, nutty flavors.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread to mop up every last bit of the creamy sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also offer a lovely balance, bringing texture and freshness alongside the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or special meal, try serving this pasta in individual shallow bowls, each topped with a small sprig of basil and a drizzle of good quality olive oil. You can also add a pop of color and texture with roasted cherry tomatoes or toasted pine nuts sprinkled on top, making the dish as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce tends to thicken as it sits, so a little stirring and reheating brings it back to life beautifully.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, making it a perfect option for meal prep. Freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.
Reheating
When reheating, use low to medium heat to warm the pasta slowly, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking or separating. Adding a small amount of milk or broth will loosen the sauce and maintain its creamy consistency for a fresh, delicious experience.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! Penne, fusilli, or farfalle work best because they hold the sauce well, but you can use any medium pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly and make sure to stir frequently.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and increase the amount of spinach or add mushrooms for extra heartiness. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the flavors rich and satisfying.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
Fresh tomatoes won’t have the same concentrated tang and chewiness that sun-dried tomatoes provide, but you can use them if needed. To enhance flavor, roast the tomatoes before adding to the dish, or consider using a sun-dried tomato paste for a more intense taste.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
Greek yogurt or mascarpone are good alternatives that will still give you a creamy texture, though the flavor will be slightly different. Just be sure to add them towards the end of cooking over low heat to prevent curdling.
How spicy is this recipe due to the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth that complements the creamy sauce without overpowering it. If you prefer no heat, you can reduce or omit the flakes entirely without losing the dish’s overall flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a meal that feels indulgent but comes together with incredible ease. This One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe is definitely one of my go-to dishes when I want fantastic taste with minimal fuss. I’m so excited for you to try it and discover how simple ingredients can create such a memorable dinner. Trust me, your family and friends will be asking for this recipe again and again!
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One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner that combines tender chicken, savory sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a creamy parmesan sauce, all cooked together in one pot for easy cleanup and maximum taste.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 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 and Aromatics
- 1 cup shallots, diced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Liquids and Dairy
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup parmesan cheese
- ½ cup milk
Pasta and Garnish
- 1 cup medium pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season them with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced shallots, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic for 2 to 3 minutes until the shallots soften and the mixture is aromatic.
- Cook the Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the pasta of your choice and reduce the heat to medium. Let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is al dente. Stir in the fresh spinach during the last minute of cooking to allow it to wilt.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the softened cream cheese and parmesan cheese until they melt into the broth, creating a creamy sauce. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot along with the milk. Stir well and cook until the chicken is heated through and the sauce thickens to your liking.
- Serve: Garnish the creamy chicken pasta with fresh basil leaves and extra parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Use your preferred medium-sized pasta shapes such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle for best results.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat level in the dish.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen it.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth if available.
- This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
