Name: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 8 oz macaroni pasta or penne pasta; 1 lb chicken breasts, sliced into small pieces; 1 tsp salt (for chicken); 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp black pepper (for chicken); 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 4 oz sun-dried tomatoes (without oil), sliced into small chunks; 1 cup half and half (1/2 cup milk + 1/2 cup heavy cream); 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp salt (for sauce); 1/4 tsp black pepper (for sauce); 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, crushed; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/3 cup reserved pasta water

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 23 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and irresistibly smooth textures, this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. The tangy sun-dried tomatoes add a vibrant kick that perfectly complements tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a luscious, cheesy cream sauce. It’s a meal that feels both comforting and special, easily coming together in about 35 minutes to become a new favorite for weeknight dinners or casual dinner parties. Get ready to dive into layers of flavor that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows several clear glass bowls and a jar on a white marbled surface, each containing different ingredients arranged neatly. At the top left, there is a jar filled with deep red sun-dried tomatoes. Next to it, a rectangular clear glass dish holds a block of white mozzarella cheese wrapped partially in plastic. To the right, a medium clear bowl contains bright yellow macaroni pasta. Below the mozzarella, a small clear bowl contains minced pale yellow garlic, and beside it, a small bowl with light yellow olive oil. In the center, a clear bowl has a raw pink chicken piece. At the bottom left, a small clear bowl holds deep red paprika powder, and to its right, another small bowl contains reddish-brown chili flakes. A white pitcher with white half and half liquid sits near the bottom left corner. All the items are spread out on the white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To create this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Pasta Recipe, you’ll want to gather a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a big role, bringing taste, texture, or color that transforms this dish into something truly memorable.

8 oz macaroni or penne pasta: Choose your favorite shape to soak up the creamy sauce perfectly.
1 lb chicken breasts, sliced: Tender protein that cooks quickly and absorbs all the savory spices.
1 teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance every ingredient.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth to the chicken that’s utterly addictive.
3 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: The base for sautéing garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, imparting rich flavor.
2 minced garlic cloves: Aromatic and essential for that savory foundation.
4 oz sun-dried tomatoes (without oil), sliced: The star ingredient lending tangy sweetness and vibrant color.
1 cup half and half: The creamy canvas that blends milk and heavy cream for richness without heaviness.
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts seamlessly into the sauce for stringy, gooey goodness.
½ tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Bright herbaceous notes to finish the dish fresh and inviting.
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: A gentle heat that lifts the flavors without overpowering them.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy, herbaceous touch for a slightly Mediterranean flair.
⅓ cup reserved pasta water: Used to adjust sauce consistency for a silky finish.

How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Start by warming up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, then let them cook together for about a minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. This brief sauté releases the deep, savory flavors of the garlic and softens the sun-dried tomatoes just enough to enhance their natural sweetness — the perfect foundation for your sauce.

Step 2: Remove Tomatoes and Prepare the Chicken

Remove the sun-dried tomatoes from the skillet, but keep the infused olive oil right there. Meanwhile, season your sliced chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and smoky paprika. The paprika adds a mild smokiness that really elevates the chicken and ties in beautifully with the tomato’s tang.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Over high heat, quickly sear the chicken slices in the hot skillet for about one minute per side. The goal is to get a golden exterior while keeping the chicken juicy inside. Once done, take the pan off the heat—don’t worry, the chicken will continue to cook slightly in the next steps.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta and Save Pasta Water

While the chicken is cooking, prepare your macaroni or penne according to the package instructions. Be sure to save about ⅓ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water is a secret weapon for loosening the sauce if it gets too thick and helps it cling more effectively to the pasta.

Step 5: Combine Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Chicken

Return the sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet with the chicken, allowing those flavors to mingle while you move on to the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a separate skillet, gently bring the half and half and shredded mozzarella to a slow boil over medium heat. Stir frequently as the cheese melts into the milk mixture, creating a luxuriously smooth and creamy base for your pasta.

Step 7: Mix Pasta with Cream Sauce

Once the cheese has completely melted into the cream, add the cooked pasta right into the skillet. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure every piece of pasta is bathed in that cheesy sauce.

Step 8: Add Seasonings and Fresh Herbs

Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano, then toss in fresh parsley. By simmering the pasta and sauce together for a few minutes, the flavors blend perfectly into one cohesive, mouthwatering dish.

Step 9: Adjust Sauce Consistency

If the sauce feels too thick, stir in some of the reserved pasta water gradually until you reach a luxuriously creamy but pourable texture. This step ensures your pasta feels silky and smooth, not clumpy or dry.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

To finish, garnish with extra dried oregano, fresh basil leaves if you have them, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for that final pop of color and flavor. Your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Pasta Recipe is now ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Pasta Recipe

A black pan filled with cooked short macaroni pasta mixed with small pieces of light brown cooked chicken and dark red sun-dried tomatoes. The pasta and chicken are covered in a creamy yellow sauce and sprinkled with small green herbs and black pepper. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds light freshness and a pop of vibrant green that contrasts beautifully with the reddish sauce. For a subtle heat boost, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes on top works wonders. If you’re feeling indulgent, a little extra shredded mozzarella or even shaved Parmesan can elevate it further.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides such as a mixed green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad for something richer. Garlic bread or warm baguette slices are perfect for mopping up every bit of that creamy sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans also provide a lovely textural contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a beautiful presentation, twirl the pasta on each plate into neat mounds using tongs or a fork before spooning extra sauce and chicken over them. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil or balsamic glaze for visual appeal. Serve in rustic bowls or wide pasta plates to give it a cozy, inviting feel. Adding a small sprig of parsley or oregano on top adds an elegant touch great for entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Pasta Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because of the creamy sauce, it may thicken upon cooling, but this is easily fixed during reheating.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Be aware that the texture of the cream sauce might slightly change after freezing, but the flavors remain delicious and comforting.

Reheating

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring often. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water as needed to bring back the silky sauce texture. This way, every bite tastes as fresh as the first serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great choice if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful meat. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked but still tender.

Do I have to use mozzarella cheese?

You can swap mozzarella for other melty cheeses like provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that mozzarella provides a stretchy, mild creaminess that complements the sun-dried tomatoes especially well.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

Yes! Use your favorite plant-based milk and cream substitutes and a dairy-free cheese alternative. The texture may vary slightly, but the bold sun-dried tomato and chicken flavors will still shine through.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne or macaroni are fantastic because their tube shapes hold the creamy sauce perfectly. But feel free to experiment with fusilli, rigatoni, or even farfalle depending on what you have on hand.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even artichoke hearts for a delicious vegetarian version. The sun-dried tomatoes and creamy sauce provide plenty of flavor to keep it satisfying.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Pasta Recipe a try, whether for a cozy family dinner or a relaxed gathering with friends. It hits all the right notes with ease — comforting, flavorful, and beautifully balanced. Plus, it’s straightforward enough to whip up any night of the week and feel like a special treat. Enjoy every creamy, tangy bite!

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Pasta Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need

How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes