Creamy Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

When it comes to comfort food, pasta dishes have an unmatched ability to warm hearts and bring families together around the dinner table. And among the countless pasta variations, Creamy Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta stands out as a truly special meal.

This dish blends tender, well-seasoned chicken thighs with a luxurious sauce made from cream, Parmesan, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. Tossed with al dente farfalle pasta, it becomes a bowl of pure comfort that feels indulgent yet approachable for a weeknight dinner.

The inspiration behind this recipe is rooted in the Italian countryside, where sun-dried tomatoes are prized for their concentrated flavor and ability to add instant depth to sauces. Pair them with creamy textures, fragrant garlic, and fresh spinach, and you’ve got a dish that feels both rustic and sophisticated.

Perfect for a cozy family dinner, a date-night meal, or even entertaining friends, this pasta is sure to become your new go-to comfort dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant-Quality at Home – Tastes like an elegant Italian trattoria meal made in your own kitchen.
• Gluten-Free Friendly – Uses gluten-free pasta and flour without compromising flavor or texture.
• Rich & Comforting – Creamy sauce, savory chicken, and sun-dried tomato tang for the ultimate cozy dinner.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 35 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
• Family Approved – A wholesome, satisfying dish that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Versatile – Works with chicken breasts, different pasta shapes, or even vegetarian substitutions.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe makes 4 generous servings. Below is the ingredient breakdown by component.

For the Chicken:

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Juicy and flavorful, perfect for soaking up spices.
• ¾ tablespoon smoked sweet paprika – Adds smokiness and warmth.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – A balanced mix of herbs for an Italian flavor profile.
• ¾ teaspoon salt – Enhances the chicken’s natural flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – A mild kick for balance.
• 1 tablespoon sun-dried tomato oil (from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes) – Infuses extra flavor into the chicken.

For the Pasta & Sauce:

• 12 oz farfalle pasta (or any preferred gluten-free pasta) – Bow-tie pasta holds sauce beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons butter – The base of a silky, rich sauce.
• 2 tablespoons dried shallots – Mild sweetness that complements cream sauces.
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic – Classic aromatic for depth.
• 1 tablespoon minced onion – Extra layer of savory flavor.
• 3 tablespoons gluten-free flour (Bob’s Red Mill 1:1) – Thickens the sauce.
• 2 cups chicken broth – Adds savory depth and balances richness.
• 1 cup heavy cream – The key to a luscious, velvety sauce.
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese – Salty, nutty, and creamy.
• ¼ cup diced sun-dried tomatoes – Tangy and sweet, the star flavor.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – Intensifies tomato flavor and adds richness.
• 1 cup diced spinach (fresh) – Adds freshness, color, and nutrients.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – Ties flavors together.
• ½ teaspoon smoked sweet paprika – Extends flavor into the sauce.
• ½ teaspoon salt – To taste and balance creaminess.
• Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish – Brings brightness and color.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan – For cooking the chicken and sauce.
• Medium pot – To cook the pasta.
• Colander – To drain pasta.
• Sharp knife & cutting board – For prepping chicken and vegetables.
• Measuring cups & spoons – Accuracy matters in creamy sauces.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – To stir the sauce smoothly.
• Tongs – To handle the chicken.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Rinse the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Rub evenly over the chicken thighs.
3. Heat sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Sear chicken thighs for 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
5. Lower heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 6–10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Remove from skillet, rest for a few minutes, then dice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium-low heat.
2. Add shallots, garlic, onion, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle gluten-free flour into the skillet and stir until combined.
4. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, followed by heavy cream. Stir continuously.
5. Add spinach and seasonings (Italian seasoning, paprika, salt). Cook until spinach wilts and sauce thickens.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

1. Add diced chicken and pasta to the skillet.
2. Toss everything gently until the pasta is well coated in sauce.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Garnish with freshly chopped basil.

Tips & Variations

• Make It Spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
• Use Chicken Breasts – Substitute thighs with chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
• Vegetarian Option – Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas.
• Different Pasta Shapes – Penne, rigatoni, or gluten-free spaghetti all work.
• Lighter Sauce – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half.
• Extra Veggies – Broccoli, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers make great add-ins.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This pasta is the perfect marriage of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors.

• Flavor: Rich, garlicky, and slightly smoky from paprika.
• Texture: Tender chicken, silky sauce, and chewy pasta.
• Highlights: The sun-dried tomatoes provide bursts of tanginess that cut through the richness.

Pairings

• Wine: Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
• Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with lemon or iced herbal tea.
• Sides: Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.

Nutritional Overview (Estimated Per Serving)

• Calories: 625
• Protein: 36 g
• Carbohydrates: 55 g
• Fat: 28 g
• Fiber: 4 g

Balanced and hearty, this dish is naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free pasta and flour.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep Chicken Ahead: Season and store raw chicken in the fridge up to 24 hours before cooking.
• Cook Pasta Early: Store cooked pasta with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Sauce Storage: Refrigerate sauce separately and combine when reheating.
• Reheat Gently: Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Q: Can I use jarred Alfredo sauce instead?
Yes, but the homemade sauce is fresher and more flavorful.

Q: What if I don’t have sun-dried tomato oil?
Use olive oil instead, though you’ll miss some of the tomato depth.

Q: Can I freeze this pasta?
Yes, though the cream sauce may separate slightly. Add a splash of cream when reheating.

Q: What type of Parmesan works best?
Freshly grated Parmesan from a block melts smoother than pre-shredded.

Q: Is this dish kid-friendly?
Definitely! You can adjust seasoning for picky eaters.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Task	Time
Prep ingredients	10 min
Cook chicken	10 min
Boil pasta	10 min
Make sauce	10 min
Combine & garnish	5 min
Total	35 min

Serving Suggestions

• Plate in wide bowls topped with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
• Pair with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Serve with a simple arugula salad for balance.

Recipe Variations

1. Tuscan-Inspired: Add white beans and olives.
2. Spicy Cajun: Swap Italian seasoning for Cajun spices.
3. Seafood Upgrade: Replace chicken with shrimp or scallops.
4. Vegetable-Heavy: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers.

Ingredient Spotlight

Sun-Dried Tomatoes

• Selection: Choose oil-packed for best flavor and texture.
• Storage: Keep in the fridge after opening.
• Enhancement: Use the oil for cooking to infuse extra flavor.

Chicken Thighs

• Why thighs? Juicy, flavorful, and forgiving to cook.
• Storage: Keep refrigerated and use within 2 days.
• Enhancement: Marinate with paprika and garlic for deeper flavor.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Always cook pasta to al dente – it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce.
• Deglaze the skillet with broth after cooking chicken to lift flavorful browned bits.
• Add Parmesan gradually, stirring constantly, for a smooth sauce.
• Rest the chicken before dicing to keep it juicy.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop with broth or cream to restore sauce texture.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	625
Protein	36 g
Carbs	55 g
Fat	28 g
Fiber	4 g

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: creamy, flavorful, and effortlessly comforting. From the juicy chicken thighs to the tangy sun-dried tomatoes and rich Parmesan sauce, each bite is pure indulgence.

It’s a dish that brings together the best of Italian-inspired flavors in just 35 minutes making it both weeknight-friendly and special enough for entertaining.

So the next time you’re craving comfort food with a touch of elegance, skip the takeout and whip up this pasta masterpiece. Don’t forget to top it with fresh basil and share with the ones you love!

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