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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Penne

Posted on August 17, 2025

Imagine the comforting aroma of creamy sun-dried tomato chicken penne wafting through your kitchen. This delightful dish combines tender chicken, rich cream, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, creating a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds. creamy spinach artichoke dip As you twirl the penne around your fork, each bite becomes a cozy hug for your soul.

This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a nostalgic embrace from my childhood when my mom would whip up her signature pasta dish on chilly evenings. The creamy sauce and vibrant colors always brought everyone to the table, making it the highlight of our week. spicy buffalo cauliflower bites Perfect for family dinners or cozy date nights, this creamy sun-dried tomato chicken penne promises to deliver an unforgettable flavor experience.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy sun-dried tomato chicken penne is simple to prepare, making it great for busy weeknights
The flavors blend beautifully, delighting both kids and adults alike
Its vibrant color brings life to any dinner table, making it visually appealing
Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences with easy ingredient swaps

My friends couldn’t stop raving about this dish during our last dinner party; it was a true crowd-pleaser!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts will serve 4 people well; adjust as needed for larger gatherings.
Penne Pasta: Use whole wheat or gluten-free if desired; cook until al dente for the best texture.
Cream: Heavy cream adds richness; you can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for oil-packed varieties for extra flavor; chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide the best aroma; minced finely for even distribution in the sauce. For more inspiration, check out this garlic parmesan cheeseburger bombs recipe.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully into the sauce; it also enhances the overall flavor profile.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients; toss it in at the end to wilt slightly.
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps sauté the chicken and garlic, infusing everything with flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; these staples elevate all other flavors in the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all ingredients on your countertop. Chop the sun-dried tomatoes and mince the garlic so they’re ready when you need them.

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining.

Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and heat until shimmering. Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.

Add Aromatics: Once chicken is cooked through, remove from skillet and let rest. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté until fragrant and garlic turns golden.

Create Creamy Sauce: Lower heat and pour in heavy cream while stirring constantly. Scrape any brown bits off the bottom of the pan for added depth of flavor as sauce thickens slightly.

Toss Everything Together: Slice chicken into strips and return it to the skillet along with cooked penne pasta. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired sauce consistency, then stir in fresh spinach until wilted. For more inspiration, check out this chicken sausages with pasta recipe.

Now sit back, grab a fork, and dive into this delicious creamy sun-dried tomato chicken penne! Enjoy every mouthful as you savor each layer of flavor that unfolds with every bite! stuffed mini peppers.

You Must Know

The secret to a luscious Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Penne lies in the quality of your sun-dried tomatoes
Opt for those packed in oil for enhanced flavor and moisture
A splash of pasta water can elevate the sauce’s consistency beautifully, giving you that creamy texture

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown. While it rests, cook the penne and prepare your creamy sauce, mixing everything together for a burst of flavor.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition or swapping penne for any pasta shape you like.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream to restore its creamy goodness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To make the sauce even creamier, stir in a bit of cream cheese at the end
Avoid overcooking your pasta; it should be al dente
Lastly, don’t skip seasoning; salt and pepper enhance all flavors beautifully

The first time I made Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Penne, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it. jalapeno popper dip They claimed it was “restaurant-quality,” which made me feel like a culinary rockstar!

FAQ

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Fresh tomatoes can be used, but they won’t provide that concentrated flavor.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute chicken with grilled veggies or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne is ideal, but any short pasta like fusilli or rigatoni will work nicely.