There I was, standing in my kitchen, arms deep in a whirlwind of flavors, when the thought struck me—what could be better than a comforting bowl of creamy pasta on a busy weeknight? Enter my Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe, a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary hug for the soul. This is not just any pasta; it’s a symphony of tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and the irresistible richness of cream cheese, all ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for those evenings when time is tight yet you crave something utterly satisfying. Plus, it’s an easy dinner option that will quickly become a family favorite. Ready to enchant your taste buds? Let’s dive into cooking this delectable pasta dish that’s sure to impress! Why is this pasta recipe a must-try? Easy Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish, making it perfect for those busy weeknights. Creamy Indulgence: The rich combination of cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and tender chicken creates a luxurious sauce that wraps around each pasta strand. Nutrient-Packed: With fresh spinach incorporated, you not only enhance the flavor but also add a pop of color and extra vitamins. Versatile Variations: Whether you prefer a vegetarian option with chickpeas or want to swap out chicken for sautéed mushrooms, this recipe easily adapts to your tastes. Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for family meals or casual gatherings, it’s bound to impress even the pickiest eaters! Pair it with Garlic Butter Pasta or serve alongside a refreshing side salad for a complete feast! Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Ingredients For the Pasta • 1 lb. linguine – This is the main carbohydrate source; you can use any pasta shape like penne or fusilli if you prefer. For the Sauce • 1 (7-oz.) jar sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil – These add an intense tomato flavor; consider rehydrated dry sun-dried tomatoes as a substitute. • 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts – Provides a hearty protein boost; for a vegetarian version, chickpeas work beautifully as a substitute. • 1/2 medium yellow onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce. • 1 (6-oz.) can tomato paste – Concentrates the tomato flavor in the sauce for added richness. • 3 cloves garlic, chopped – Enhances the aroma and flavor of the dish. • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth – Adds moisture and flavor; you can swap this with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. • 4 oz. cream cheese, cubed – This is key for creating the creamy texture that defines the sauce. • 1 (5-oz.) container baby spinach – Adds nutrients and a vibrant touch of color. For Garnishing and Seasoning • 1 cup grated parmesan – For a savory finish; feel free to serve extra on top to delight cheese lovers! • Seasonings: 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, 3/4 tsp. pepper, 1 tsp. lemon zest, 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes – Essential for flavor balance; adjust to suit your palate and bring the sun-dried tomato pasta recipe to life! Enjoy your cooking journey with this delightful dish! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe Step 1: Prep Ingredients Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. While waiting, drain the jar of sun-dried tomatoes and reserve the oil for later use. Measure out all your other ingredients and keep them handy to ensure a smooth cooking process for your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta. Step 2: Cook Chicken Cut the boneless skinless chicken breasts into strips, and season with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of the reserved sun-dried tomato oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sauté for approximately 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest. Step 3: Build Sauce Base In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the tomato paste, garlic, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes, allowing the mixture to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, creating a flavorful base for your sauce. Step 4: Simmer Sauce Gradually whisk in 1 ½ cups of chicken broth to the skillet, ensuring it blends smoothly with the sautéed ingredients. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat and allow it to bubble lightly for about 10 minutes, thickening and deepening in flavor. Step 5: Cook Pasta While the sauce is simmering, add the linguine to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 9-11 minutes. Before draining, reserve about 1½ cups of the pasta water to help achieve the desired creaminess in your sun-dried tomato pasta sauce. Step 6: Combine Sauce and Pasta Once the linguine is drained, return it to the pot and add the softened cream cheese, stirring well to melt it into the pasta. Next, incorporate the reserved sun-dried tomatoes, fresh baby spinach, and cooked chicken, mixing until the spinach wilts and everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. If necessary, add some reserved pasta water to achieve your preferred consistency. Make Ahead Options This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken, sauce, and even the linguine up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, cook the chicken and sauce, then allow them to cool completely before refrigerating in airtight containers. You can also cook the pasta al dente, toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking, and store it in the fridge. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the sauce, add the reserved pasta water for creaminess, and mix in the cooked pasta until warmed through. This way, you’ll have a delightful, restaurant-quality dinner with minimal effort! Storage Tips for Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the pasta before sealing to prevent moisture accumulation. Freezer: Freeze portions in zip-lock bags or airtight containers for up to 3 months. Label them with the date to keep track. Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth for extra creaminess. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving cooked pasta at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. What to Serve with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta? Pairing your creamy sun-dried tomato pasta with the right sides brings the entire meal into delicious harmony. Garlic Bread: The aromatic crunch of garlic bread slices pairs perfectly, soaking up any lingering sauce and enhancing the flavors. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pasta, adding a light and refreshing contrast. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies provide vibrant textures and flavors, creating a heartwarming balance to this creamy dish. White Wine: A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce and sun-dried tomatoes beautifully, making each bite even more enjoyable. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus adds a pop of color and a light, earthy flavor that elevates your meal experience. Cheesy Baked Zucchini: With its delightful melted cheese, this side dish offers a creamy element that ties in nicely with the pasta. Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with a classic Italian dessert, leaving everyone satisfied and dreaming of the next dinner. Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe Variations Feel free to personalize your dish by trying out these exciting twists and substitutions that can elevate your beloved creamy pasta! Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a hearty and savory alternative. Each option delivers a different texture while keeping the creaminess intact. Extra Veggies: Incorporate additional veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. They not only enhance the nutrition but also add vibrant color and layers of flavor to your meal. Dairy-Free Delight: Use cashew cream or coconut cream in place of cream cheese to create a dairy-free version without sacrificing the richness. Flavor Boost: Stir in a tablespoon of pesto to the sauce right before serving for an extra herbaceous flavor that dances on your taste buds. Spice it Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a delightful kick of heat that transforms the dish into a spicy sensation. Italian Twist: Incorporate some fresh basil or oregano at the end of cooking for a pop of fresh Italian flavor. It adds a light and refreshing finish to your creamy pasta. Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts over the top before serving. This not only adds a pleasant crunch but also enhances the overall flavor profile. Cheesy Variation: Try swapping out parmesan with feta cheese or goat cheese for a tangy twist that beautifully complements the sun-dried tomatoes. No matter which variation you choose, your pasta will be delightfully customized to match your mood or dietary preferences! Serve alongside a side of Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta for a full flavorful feast. Expert Tips for Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh sun-dried tomatoes in oil yield the best flavor. Avoid using dried tomatoes without soaking as they may dry out the dish. Avoid Overcooking Chicken: Cook chicken just until golden brown and no longer pink inside. Overcooking can lead to dry, tough pieces, ruining your creamy sauce. Emulsify for Creaminess: Reserve pasta water is essential for achieving that silky, creamy sauce. Add it gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Season Step-by-Step: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process. This ensures a well-balanced flavor in your sun-dried tomato pasta dish. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, but be mindful not to overcrowd the sauce, which may impact its creaminess. Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right sun-dried tomatoes? Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, as they tend to be more flavorful and tender. If you only have the dry variety, soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes until they’re softened and plump. This way, you enhance the dish’s rich tomato flavor! How can I store leftovers of this pasta? Very simple! Store any leftover Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta in an airtight container, and it will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the pasta to cool before sealing to prevent condensation. When you reheat, add a little splash of milk or chicken broth to revive the creaminess! Can I freeze this pasta dish? Yes, you can freeze it! Once cooled, transfer the pasta into zip-lock bags or airtight containers, making sure to remove as much air as possible. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stove with a splash of milk for that creamy texture. What should I do if my sauce is too thick? No worries! If you find the sauce is too thick, simply add the reserved pasta water gradually until you reach the desired consistency. This pasta water is starchy and helps create a silky sauce. Stir frequently and you’ll be back to creamy goodness in no time! Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Absolutely! This recipe can be easily customized to meet various dietary needs. For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with cooked chickpeas and use vegetable broth for extra flavor. Keep an eye on the ingredients for anyone with allergies, such as ensuring the cream cheese and pasta are suitable for those with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity. Always check labels! What other vegetables can I add to this dish? The more the merrier! You can incorporate a variety of colorful vegetables to boost nutrition and flavor. Options like bell peppers, zucchini, or even broccoli work beautifully. Just sauté them alongside the onion in Step 3 for a lovely, healthy addition to your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe! Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe for a Quick Dinner This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe combines creamy flavors with vibrant spinach for a quick and satisfying dinner option. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 480 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta1 lb linguine You can use any pasta shape like penne or fusilli.For the Sauce1 7-oz jar sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil Consider rehydrated dry sun-dried tomatoes as a substitute.1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts For a vegetarian version, chickpeas work beautifully as a substitute.1/2 medium yellow onion Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.1 6-oz can tomato paste Concentrates the tomato flavor in the sauce.3 cloves garlic, chopped Enhances the aroma and flavor.1 1/2 cups chicken broth Swap with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.4 oz cream cheese, cubed Key for creating the creamy texture.1 5-oz container baby spinach Adds nutrients and a vibrant touch.For Garnishing and Seasoning1 cup grated parmesan Serve extra on top for cheese lovers.1 1/2 tsp kosher salt Essential for flavor balance.3/4 tsp pepper Adjust to taste.1 tsp lemon zest Adds brightness.1/4 tsp red pepper flakes Optional for heat. Equipment Large potSkilletMeasuring CupsMeasuring SpoonsCooking spoonCutting boardKnife Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPrep Ingredients: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drain the jar of sun-dried tomatoes, reserving the oil. Measure out all ingredients.Cook Chicken: Cut chicken into strips, season with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of reserved sun-dried tomato oil over medium-high heat. Sauté chicken for 6-8 minutes until golden brown.Build Sauce Base: In the same skillet, lower heat and add chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft. Stir in tomato paste, garlic, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes and cook for 1-2 minutes.Simmer Sauce: Gradually whisk in chicken broth. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat and let bubble for about 10 minutes.Cook Pasta: While the sauce simmers, add linguine to boiling water and cook according to package instructions (9-11 minutes). Reserve 1½ cups of pasta water before draining.Combine Sauce and Pasta: Return drained linguine to pot, add softened cream cheese, stirring to melt. Incorporate reserved sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and cooked chicken. Mix until spinach wilts and sauce coats the pasta. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 34gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 3500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of milk or chicken broth for creaminess. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
