Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

Imagine the heartiest, most soul-satisfying bowl of pasta you’ve ever enjoyed: that’s exactly what you get with Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes. This dish delivers comfort in every bite, mingling tender chicken, silky strands of pasta, vibrant baby spinach, and bright sun-dried tomatoes all lovingly swaddled in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. It’s the kind of recipe that feels a little luxurious but is weeknight-friendly, fuss-free, and guaranteed to become a staple at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this dish is how such a simple lineup of ingredients comes together to create restaurant-level flavor. Each item plays an important role in bringing out the color, texture, and mouthwatering taste in every forkful of Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes.

• Pasta: Penne or fettuccine both soak up the creamy sauce beautifully for maximum flavor in every bite.
• Olive oil: Just a touch to sauté the chicken and start building layers of flavor right from the pan.
• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, these provide lean, juicy protein that easily absorbs the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning your chicken and pasta perfectly—don’t be shy here!
• Garlic: Freshly minced cloves infuse the whole dish with depth and an irresistible aroma.
• Red pepper flakes: Totally optional if you like a gentle heat, but they add wonderful warmth in the background.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Packed in oil for a deep, tangy sweetness and beautiful pops of red in every bite.
• Baby spinach: Wilts down to tender ribbons for freshness and a touch of gorgeous green.
• Heavy cream: This is what delivers that unforgettably rich, dreamy sauce—don’t skimp!
• Parmesan cheese: Grated straight into the sauce, it melts down to add irresistible savoriness.
• Italian seasoning: A sprinkle of herbs to tie everything together with classic Italian flair.

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking your pasta according to package instructions until it’s just al dente. This ensures your noodles will hold their shape and grab on to the sauce. Once finished, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prep the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook for about 5–6 minutes, letting it turn golden and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate—don’t wipe out the skillet, as the tasty brown bits left behind will flavor your sauce.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Turn the heat down to medium and toss the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) into the skillet. Stir quickly for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic is fragrant and begins to soften. Immediately add your sun-dried tomatoes and give everything a quick toss for another minute, helping them soak up some of that garlicky oil.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and let it come to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning—watch as the sauce thickens and the cheese melts seamlessly into the cream. This is the magic step where everything comes together as the quintessential Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes sauce.

Step 5: Add the Greens and Finish Assembling

With your creamy sauce bubbling, stir in the fresh baby spinach. It will wilt down quickly into tender green speckles. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta, tossing well so that every piece gets enveloped in that luscious, cheesy sauce. Give it about a minute to warm through, then it’s ready for the table!

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

Garnishes

Finish your Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes with a generous shower of extra Parmesan cheese and a few grinds of fresh black pepper. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle over some chopped fresh basil or parsley for a lovely pop of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

This pasta is rich and indulgent, so simple sides work beautifully. A crisp green salad with lemony vinaigrette or some steamed asparagus are perfect partners. Don’t forget warm, crusty bread—you’ll want something to mop up every last drop of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, swirl the pasta into bowls and nestle the chicken on top with a flourish of sun-dried tomatoes and wilted spinach. Garnish with a Parmesan crisp or even serve in a large skillet family-style for a rustic, inviting feel. Individual ramekins or pasta nests also transform it into a chic dinner party dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any remaining Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delightful—if not better—the next day.

Freezing

If you need to freeze it, portion the pasta into containers and tuck away for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. The cream sauce may separate slightly, but a gentle stir will help restore its velvety texture.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual servings, stopping to stir halfway through to heat everything evenly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! Penne and fettuccine are classic choices for Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes, but rigatoni, spaghetti, or even short pasta shapes like farfalle also taste fantastic. Just choose a pasta that holds the sauce well.

How do I make this dish lighter?

For a lighter version, simply swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk. You’ll still get a creamy effect, though the sauce will be slightly thinner. Rotisserie chicken is another great option for a leaner, quicker spin.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts all make delicious additions and bulk up the dish with extra nutrition and texture, turning your Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes into a true veggie-packed feast.

What’s the best way to prep this ahead for guests?

You can cook the chicken and prep the sauce a day in advance, then quickly reheat everything and toss with freshly cooked pasta just before serving. This keeps the pasta from soaking up too much sauce or getting mushy.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your Parmesan and other ingredients are gluten-free. The creamy sauce and flavorful mix-ins are naturally gluten-free, so you won’t sacrifice taste or texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that’s equal parts cozy and impressive, Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is sure to win you over. The flavors, colors, and texture come together in a way that’s both satisfying and special with every forkful. Don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes your new favorite comfort food—give it a try and let this creamy, dreamy pasta wow you!

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