If you are looking for a comforting yet impressive meal that comes together effortlessly, this One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender chicken pieces, the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious creamy sauce all simmered with perfectly cooked pasta in a single pot, it delivers a wonderfully rich and satisfying experience without the hassle of multiple pans. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make over and over—not just because it’s easy, but because every bite bursts with flavor and warmth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe right comes down to using simple yet essential ingredients that build layers of taste, color, and texture. Each element plays a key role, whether it’s the tender chicken, the punch of sun-dried tomatoes, or the creamy blend of cheeses that create this perfect one-pot wonder.
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Provides hearty protein and the main flavor base of the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle richness while preventing ingredients from sticking.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances savory depth without overwhelming the fresh garlic.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses classic herbaceous notes that brighten the overall flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Gives a gentle kick, perfect for balanced spice.
- 1 cup shallots, diced: Brings mild sweetness and gentle onion flavor.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: The star ingredient for that bold, tangy burst.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds vibrant aromatic depth complementing the chicken.
- 2 cups chicken broth: The cooking liquid that infuses flavor and helps cook the pasta.
- 1 cup medium pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle): Provides the perfect texture to soak up the creamy sauce.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Adds color and a fresh, subtle earthiness.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates that unbeatable velvety and creamy texture.
- ½ cup parmesan cheese: Delivers umami richness and a touch of nuttiness.
- ½ cup milk: Helps loosen the sauce for a smooth consistency.
- Fresh basil, for garnish: Introduces a fragrant brightness to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil over medium heat in a large pot, and add your seasoned chicken pieces. Sauté them until they turn golden brown and cook through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step locks in flavor and ensures juicy, tender chicken chunks. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to keep it warm.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same pot, add a splash more olive oil if needed. Toss in the diced shallots, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Sauté these beautiful ingredients for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and their aromas bloom, laying the perfect foundation for the sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Then add your choice of medium pasta—penne, fusilli, or farfalle all work beautifully here. Lower the heat to medium and let the pasta cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to stop sticking. About a minute before the pasta is al dente, stir in the fresh spinach to wilt it gently, adding a lovely burst of green.
Step 4: Make the Sauce and Finish Cooking
Now the magic begins! Stir in softened cream cheese and parmesan cheese into the hot pasta mixture, allowing them to melt and combine into a creamy, silky sauce. Return the cooked chicken back to the pot and pour in the milk. Stir everything together and cook just until heated through and the sauce thickens slightly, coating every piece of pasta.
Step 5: Serve Your Masterpiece
Sprinkle fresh basil leaves and a bit more parmesan cheese on top before serving. Each forkful offers the perfect balance of creamy richness, savory chicken, and tangy sun-dried tomato, making this One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil adds an aromatic burst that brightens the plate visually and flavor-wise. A generous dusting of parmesan cheese on top not only enhances the cheese flavor but also adds a slightly salty finish. For a little extra zing, a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish even more.
Side Dishes
This dish stands tall on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider serving it with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted garlic bread to mop up the creamy sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans also bring a nice fresh contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pasta in shallow bowls topped with microgreens alongside a wedge of lemon juice for guests to squeeze. You could also layer it in a casserole dish, sprinkle extra cheese on top, and bake it briefly for a golden crust. It’s as flexible as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy sauce thickens as it cools, so you may want to add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to bring back that perfect creamy texture. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This pasta doesn’t freeze as well as some dishes because the cream cheese sauce can separate upon thawing. If you want to freeze, separate the chicken and sauce from the pasta or freeze only the cooked chicken and sauce. Reheat gently, then cook fresh pasta to mix in for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave at short intervals, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce as it warms up to maintain that creamy, luscious texture that defines this dish.
FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne, fusilli, or farfalle are recommended for their shape and texture, any pasta that cooks in about 15-20 minutes works well. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. You can add mushrooms or extra sun-dried tomatoes for heartiness.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
Fresh tomatoes won’t provide the same concentrated sweetness and tang, but you can certainly add them. Consider lightly roasting or sautéing them to deepen their flavor before adding.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I adjust the heat?
The recipe uses just a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild kick, but feel free to increase or omit based on your spice preference. It’s easy to make the dish as mild or as lively as you like.
What is the best way to soften cream cheese for this dish?
Allow cream cheese to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. If short on time, microwave it in short 10-second bursts to soften without melting.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe is one of those delightful meals that feels indulgent yet is incredibly simple to prepare. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings when you want something delicious without fuss. I truly hope you try this recipe soon—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that makes coming home a little tastier and cozier.
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 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This One-Pot Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish combining tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a creamy parmesan sauce all cooked together in a single pot. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner, this recipe delivers comforting Italian-inspired flavors with minimal cleanup.
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 and Aromatics
- 1 cup shallots, diced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Pasta and Liquids
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup medium pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup parmesan cheese
- ½ cup milk
Garnish
- Fresh basil
- Extra parmesan cheese (optional)
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 is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté diced shallots, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until they soften and release their aroma.
- Cook the Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Add the pasta to the pot, reduce the heat to medium, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. During the last minute of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach so it wilts and incorporates evenly.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the softened cream cheese and parmesan cheese until they melt and create a creamy sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and add the milk. Stir everything together and cook until the dish is heated through and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
- Serve: Garnish the pasta with fresh basil leaves and additional parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For best results, use cream cheese at room temperature to help it blend smoothly.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed to make this dish gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Fresh basil adds a nice pop of herbaceous flavor but can be omitted or replaced with parsley if unavailable.
