Creamy Sun‑Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Sun‑Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta brings together tender chicken, garlic‑infused olive oil, juicy cherry tomatoes, sun‑dried tomato depth, and a splash of white wine, all nestled in a rich, creamy sauce with al dente pasta. It’s quick yet luxurious—perfect for a mid‑week dinner you’d be proud to serve guests.

Cooking Time

• Prep & Cook: ~30 minutes

• Total Time: ~30 minutes

• Servings: 4 generous portions

Ingredients

• 300 g pasta (e.g. penne, rigatoni)

• Salt, for pasta water and seasoning

• 1 Tbsp butter + 1 Tbsp olive oil

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ – 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)

• 2 chicken breasts (around 400–450 g total), sliced

• 1 onion, diced

• 1 Tbsp tomato paste

• 180 g cherry tomatoes, halved

• 150 ml dry white wine

• 50 g sun‑dried tomatoes, sliced

• Pinch of sugar, plus salt & black pepper to taste

• 150 ml heavy cream

• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Boil salted water and cook pasta just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté Garlic & Spices
   In a skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic, chili flakes, oregano, and paprika. Sauté 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Cook the Chicken
   Add chicken slices, season with salt and pepper, and cook 5 minutes until lightly browned and nearly cooked through. Remove and set aside.

4. Cook Onion and Tomato Base
   In the same pan, add a drizzle of oil and sauté onions ~2 minutes until soft. Stir in tomato paste, then add cherry tomatoes and cook for 4 minutes to soften.

5. Add Wine & Tomatoes
   Add white wine and simmer for 2 minutes to reduce alcohol. Stir in sun‑dried tomatoes, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar, and cook ~2 minutes.

6. Finish the Sauce
   Pour in heavy cream, simmer 2 minutes until the sauce is creamy. Add the chicken back and cook 1 more minute.

7. Combine with Pasta
   Return pasta to the pan, tossing to coat fully in sauce. Heat through.

8. Serve
   Plate the pasta, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (approx per serving)

• Calories: ~620 kcal

• Protein: 35 g

• Fat: 27 g

• Carbohydrates: 60 g

• Fiber: 4 g

Origins and Popularity

Creamy tomato‑pasta dishes like this originate from Italian‑American cucina, evolving from simple tomato pastas by adding cream and sun‑dried tomatoes. The combination of garlic, herbs, wine, and cream creates a rich and comforting dish—one that’s popular on cooking channels for its elegance and ease.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, indulgent texture with minimal effort

• Kitchen‑friendly 30‑minute timeline

• Balanced flavors: tangy tomatoes, savory spice, mellow cream

• Highly customizable—play with heat, herbs, and proteins

Health Benefits

• Chicken: lean protein for muscle maintenance

• Tomatoes: vitamin C and antioxidants

• Olive oil: heart‑healthy monounsaturated fats

• Garlic & herbs: flavor with minimal added salt

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side salad (arugula or spinach, lemon vinaigrette)

• Serve alongside garlic bread or crusty Italian loaf

• Finish with a crisp Herbed White Wine or Sparkling Water with lemon

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooked pasta: Undercook slightly so it doesn’t go mushy in sauce

• Dry chicken: Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed

• Watery sauce: Reduce wine properly and use enough tomatoes or cream

• Cold pan: Reheat the pan before adding garlic to avoid burning

Pairing Recommendations

• Wine: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or dry Rosé

• Non‑alcoholic: Sparkling lemon‑mint water

• Extras: Serve with Caesar salad or roasted vegetables

Cooking Tips

• Slice chicken thinly for quick, even cooking

• Use high‑heat olive oil to avoid burning

• Reserve a bit of pasta water to loosen the sauce if too thick

• Sun‑dried tomatoes should be in oil for best flavor—reheat gently

Similar Recipes to Try

• Creamy Garlic & Mushroom Chicken Pasta

• Spinach, Bacon & Sundried Tomato Pasta

• Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• Pesto‑cream Chicken Pasta

Variations to Try

• Add spinach or kale for greens and extra nutrients

• Swap chicken for sausage, shrimp, or tofu

• Use half cream and half milk for lighter sauce

• Add diced peppers, olives, or capers for tangy additions

• Boost heat with extra chili flakes or fresh jalapeños

Ingredient Spotlight: Sun‑Dried Tomatoes

These intensely flavored tomatoes are enriched through drying and oil preservation. They bring chewy, tangy, umami-rich bursts to sauces and are packed with lycopene and vitamins—plus they add a gourmet touch with minimal effort.

Conclusion

This Creamy Sun‑Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta brings homely comfort and restaurant-quality flair to your table. With layers of flavor—garlic, wine, tomatoes, creamy richness—it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make on any night. Elegant enough for guests, satisfying enough for family dinners—this pasta will earn a permanent spot in your meal rotation.

10 Comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use milk instead of cream?
   Yes—use full‑fat milk and add a teaspoon of flour to thicken.

2. Is this freezer friendly?
   Yes—cool completely, freeze in portions, and reheat in a saucepan.

3. Can I omit the wine?
   Yes—add 50 ml chicken broth instead to maintain liquid.

4. Can I make this gluten‑free?
   Yes—use gluten‑free pasta and ensure tomato paste has no gluten additives.

5. Is pancetta or bacon possible instead of chicken?
   Absolutely—use diced pancetta or bacon and reduce salt elsewhere.

6. Can I make this vegetarian?
   Yes—swap chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for protein.

7. How do I thicken the sauce if runny?
   Simmer longer or whisk together 1 tsp cornstarch with water and add.

8. Why add sugar?
   Just a pinch balances the acidity of tomatoes and wine.

9. Can I prepare parts ahead?
   Yes—cook chicken and prep garlic, onions, and tomatoes in advance.

10. How to reheat without drying?
    Add a splash of milk, olive oil, or stock and heat gently over medium-low.