Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

This creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta is the ultimate comfort food. It combines tender, seasoned chicken with a rich, cheesy sauce made from mozzarella, Asiago, and heavy cream. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy, slightly sweet depth of flavor, making this dish a must-try for pasta lovers.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this pasta is a crowd-pleaser. The creamy texture, bold seasonings, and savory chicken make every bite irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and creamy – The combination of cheeses and heavy cream creates an ultra-luxurious sauce.
Flavor-packed – Sun-dried tomatoes add a bold, tangy-sweet taste.
Quick & easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight option.
Customizable – Easily switch up the cheese, pasta type, or protein.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools & Equipment

To make this creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta, you’ll need:

Large skillet – For cooking the chicken and sauce.
Saucepan – To boil the pasta.
Cutting board & knife – For chopping chicken and sun-dried tomatoes.
Tongs or spatula – To stir and combine ingredients.
Cheese grater – Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded.

Preparation Tips

Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Minced garlic in a jar doesn’t provide the same depth.
Preheat the skillet before adding chicken to ensure a golden-brown sear.
Shred cheese fresh instead of using pre-packaged shredded cheese for a smoother, meltier sauce.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

10 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)

For the Chicken:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken, sliced into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Adobo seasoning
3 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

5 cloves garlic, minced
4 ounces sun-dried tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup whole milk
½ cup beef broth
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
½ cup Asiago cheese, shredded (or Parmesan)
1 tablespoon dried basil
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Season & Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt, onion powder, Adobo seasoning, and paprika.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chicken and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic & Tomatoes

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
Sauté for 3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
Remove the sun-dried tomatoes, chop them into smaller pieces, and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions.
Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add heavy cream, whole milk, and beef broth.
Stir in basil and red pepper flakes.
Add mozzarella and Asiago cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything & Serve

Return the chicken, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and pasta to the skillet.
Toss everything together until fully coated in the creamy sauce.
Serve warm and enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

This rich and creamy pasta pairs well with lighter, fresh sides to balance the flavors. Here are some great options:

Bread and Appetizers

Garlic Bread – A crunchy, buttery side to scoop up the creamy sauce.
Bruschetta – Fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil on toasted bread provide a refreshing contrast.

Salads

Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine, parmesan, and creamy dressing complement the pasta.
Caprese Salad – Mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil with balsamic glaze enhance the Italian-inspired flavors.

Vegetables

Sautéed Spinach – A simple garlic and olive oil sauté adds a healthy touch.
Lemon Parmesan Broccoli – A zesty, cheesy side that cuts through the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Vegetables – Try zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for added texture and flavor.

Beverages

Glass of White Wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Even a simple dish like this can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes and tips to perfect your pasta every time.

1. Overcooking the Chicken

Chicken breast can become dry if overcooked. To keep it juicy:

Cook it only until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Sear it quickly over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side.
Remove from heat immediately and let it rest before adding it back to the pasta.

2. Using Pre-Shredded Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. To get the best creamy texture:

Shred cheese fresh from a block for a silkier sauce.
Stir it into the sauce gradually to avoid clumping.

3. Skipping the Pasta Water

Pasta water contains starch that helps thicken and bind the sauce. If the sauce is too thick:

Add ¼ cup of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

4. Not Draining the Pasta Properly

Leaving too much water on the pasta can dilute the sauce. To avoid this:

Drain pasta thoroughly but do not rinse, as rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce cling.

5. Adding Cheese Over High Heat

High heat can cause the cheese to separate and become grainy. To prevent this:

Reduce the heat to low-medium before adding the cheese.
Stir continuously until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.

6. Forgetting to Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Creamy sauces can sometimes mute seasonings, so always taste before serving.

Add a pinch of extra salt, red pepper flakes, or black pepper if needed.

7. Using the Wrong Type of Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes come packed in oil or dry-packed. Both work, but:

If using dry-packed, rehydrate them in warm water for 10 minutes.
If using oil-packed, drain excess oil before chopping them.

Recipe Tips

Make it spicier – Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for more heat.
Substitutions – Swap Asiago cheese for Parmesan or use chicken broth instead of beef broth.
Extra creamy texture – Use half-and-half instead of whole milk for a silkier sauce.
Add vegetables – Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can add more texture and nutrients.
Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free pasta and check that all seasonings are gluten-free.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

Let the pasta cool to room temperature before storing.
Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions

On the Stovetop:

Heat a skillet over low heat.
Add the pasta with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Stir occasionally until heated through.

In the Microwave:

Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish.
Add a little milk or broth.
Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until warmed.

Can You Freeze It?

This pasta is best fresh, as the cream-based sauce may separate when frozen. If you must freeze it:

Store in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Stir well and add extra liquid to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, chicken thighs are juicier and add even more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs take slightly longer to cook.

2. What type of pasta works best?

Penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni hold the sauce well, but any pasta shape can be used.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but the sauce may thicken in the refrigerator. When reheating, add extra broth or milk to bring back the creamy consistency.

4. Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the chicken with mushrooms, zucchini, or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

5. Can I make it dairy-free?

You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative, but the texture and flavor may be slightly different.

6. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, but fresh tomatoes will add more liquid and a different texture. Sun-dried tomatoes provide a more concentrated, tangy flavor.

7. How can I make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer for a few extra minutes, or add a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese to thicken the sauce.

8. Why did my cheese become grainy?

This happens if the cheese is added over high heat. Lower the heat before stirring in the cheese and mix slowly to ensure a smooth sauce.

Conclusion

This creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta is a flavorful, satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, a velvety sauce, and the bold taste of sun-dried tomatoes, it is a restaurant-quality meal you can make in under 30 minutes.

Whether you enjoy it for a quick weeknight dinner or serve it to guests, this dish is sure to impress. Try it today, and let me know how it turns out.