If you’re searching for a dish that wraps comfort, flavor, and a touch of elegance all in one, you’ve just found your new favorite. This Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe combines tender chicken, luscious cream sauce, and vibrant veggies, making every bite a delightful experience. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner to impress family or friends, and it’s surprisingly simple to pull together. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become a staple in your recipe box.

Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that pack an incredible punch. Each element plays a key role in building the dish’s creamy texture, robust flavor, and beautiful color palette.

Penne pasta (8 oz): The ideal pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce for maximum flavor in every bite.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps tenderize the chicken while cooking.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2): Provides the hearty protein base for this meal, seasoned simply for juicy bites.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all the flavors.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with its warm, fragrant aroma and depth.
Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): A subtle kick that elevates the flavor from comforting to exciting.
Sun-dried tomatoes (1/2 cup, chopped): Bursting with tangy sweetness, they brighten the richness of the cream sauce.
Fresh spinach (2 cups, chopped): Adds vibrant color and a nutritious, tender bite.
Heavy cream (1 cup): The silky smooth foundation of the sauce that makes everything dreamy.
Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Lightens the sauce while adding savory depth.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Brings a salty, nutty finish that ties the whole dish together.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A perfect blend of herbs that adds warmth and complexity.
Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness that completes the dish beautifully.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, according to package instructions. This ensures the pasta has the perfect bite to soak up that luscious sauce later. Once cooked, drain it well and set it aside to wait for its flavorful companions.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper to bring out their natural flavor, then add them to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, set the chicken aside so you can build your sauce in the same pan—this way, all those delicious browned bits stay in the dish!

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about one minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This is a crucial step because the garlic infuses the oil with incredible aroma, setting the stage for the rest of the flavors.

Step 4: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach

Next, toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts down, releasing its juices and blending with the sweet tang of the tomatoes. This combination gives the dish a vibrant pop of color and a depth of flavor that’s absolutely mouthwatering.

Step 5: Create the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring gently as you bring the mixture to a simmer. This creamy blend forms the rich sauce that ties everything together, balancing the brightness of the veggies with the luscious texture.

Step 6: Incorporate Parmesan and Seasonings

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken over 2 to 3 minutes. The Parmesan melts into a velvety coating while the herbs create a fragrant backdrop that elevates the dish.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Finally, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, ensuring every piece of pasta is generously coated with the creamy sauce. Let it cook together for another 1 to 2 minutes so the flavors marry perfectly.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Serve this beautiful creation garnished with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you like. The fresh herbs add elegance and a delightful contrast to the richness.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a simple yet essential garnish that adds a burst of green and a subtle fresh flavor to the dish. For added decadence, a handful of shaved Parmesan or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can elevate the presentation and taste even further. These finishing touches truly make this dish shine.

Side Dishes

This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with a light and crisp side salad like arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a Caesar salad to balance the richness. Some crusty garlic bread or warm focaccia also complements the meal perfectly, allowing you to soak up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more elegant dinner party feel, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls and garnish with microgreens or edible flowers. You could also layer the pasta in a large serving dish, topped with extra sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs, making for a colorful centerpiece that invites everyone to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe stores beautifully in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to keep the flavors fresh and textures just right.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Because the cream sauce can change texture slightly, it’s recommended to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta slowly on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it feels too thick. Stir frequently to re-incorporate the flavors and keep the chicken tender. Avoid the microwave if possible to preserve the silky texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the sauce, you can swap it for fusilli, rigatoni, or even farfalle. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente for the best bite.

Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter but still creamy sauce. Just be gentle with the heat to avoid curdling.

Can I prepare this recipe without chicken?

Of course! This dish works wonderfully as a vegetarian option by omitting the chicken. You could add mushrooms or chickpeas for extra protein and texture.

Where can I buy sun-dried tomatoes?

Sun-dried tomatoes are usually found in the dried foods or canned goods aisle of most grocery stores. You can choose between those packed in oil or dried separately; just remember to chop them finely for this recipe.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh spinach?

Frozen spinach works well as a substitute; just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding. Baby kale or Swiss chard are also great options that bring their own unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe is truly a comforting hug on a plate with its rich sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant greens. It’s simple enough for a weeknight yet special enough to serve guests, making it a versatile gem in your cooking repertoire. So go ahead and treat yourself to this delicious, crowd-pleasing meal—you won’t regret it!

Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

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3.8 from 24 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A rich and flavorful creamy chicken pasta featuring tender chicken breasts, fresh spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes all tossed in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. This easy 30-minute dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner and serves four.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Protein

8 oz (225g) penne pasta
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

Vegetables and Flavorings

3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Dairy and Liquids

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings

Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside for later use.
Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté garlic and spices: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
Cook vegetables: Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach has wilted.
Add liquids: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add cheese and seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly and the chicken is heated through.
Toss pasta with sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
Serve: Plate the creamy chicken pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil can add more flavor; drain oil lightly before chopping.
Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
Adjust red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten free.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American