Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Fresh Basil
There’s something truly comforting about a creamy pasta dish—especially one that’s packed with flavor, like this Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Fresh Basil. I first fell in love with this dish on a trip to Italy, where I was introduced to the rich, tangy taste of sun-dried tomatoes paired with fresh herbs. When I came home, I was determined to recreate that experience in my kitchen, and this recipe was born!
This dish combines tender chicken, garlic-infused cream sauce, and the deep, slightly sweet flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, all tossed together with perfectly cooked pasta. Finished with a generous amount of fresh basil and Parmesan, it’s an easy, restaurant-quality meal you can whip up in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this pasta is bound to impress!
⏱ Recipe Overview
| Preparation Time | Total Cooking Time | Number of Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings |
🛒 Ingredients for My Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Fresh Basil
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or spaghetti)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
🔥 Pro Tips for Success
- Salt Your Pasta Water! This enhances the pasta’s flavor and makes a big difference in the final dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken. Cook until just done to keep it juicy and tender.
- Use Oil-Packed Sun-Dried Tomatoes. These are softer and more flavorful than dry-packed ones.
- Save Some Pasta Water. A bit of starchy pasta water can help loosen the sauce if needed.
- Fresh Basil is Key. It adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, creamy sauce.
🔪 Tools Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking chicken and sauce
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Strainer for draining pasta
🔄 Substitutions and Variations
| Substitution | Original Ingredient | New Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Penne or rigatoni | Fettuccine/spaghetti | More bite-sized, great for holding sauce |
| Chicken thighs | Chicken breasts | Juicier, richer taste |
| Half-and-half | Heavy cream | Lighter, less rich sauce |
| Pecorino Romano | Parmesan cheese | Sharper, saltier flavor |
| Spinach | Basil | Milder, slightly earthy taste |
❄️ Make-Ahead Tips
- You can cook the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
- The pasta itself is best cooked fresh, but you can reheat leftovers with a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy texture.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Creamy Chicken Pasta
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
3️⃣ Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4️⃣ Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese, letting it all melt together into a creamy sauce.
5️⃣ Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well coated. Fold in the fresh basil and adjust seasoning.
6️⃣ Serve and Enjoy!
Serve hot, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan if desired.
🍽 Serving Suggestions for Creamy Chicken Pasta
| Pairing Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce |
| Side Salad | A fresh green salad with balsamic dressing |
| Roasted Vegetables | Adds a nutritious, flavorful side |
| Bruschetta | A light, tangy appetizer to start |
🥡 Leftovers & Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
🥂 Suggested Drink Pairing
A chilled glass of Chardonnay pairs beautifully with this dish. Its buttery notes complement the creamy sauce, while its acidity balances the richness.
❤️ Enjoy!
This Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Fresh Basil is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a meal to impress guests, it’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out!
