Are you tired of the same old chicken recipes? Looking for a dish that’s not just quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor? You’re in the right place! This Quick and Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is the solution to your weeknight dinner dilemma. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, whole wheat pasta, and fresh spinach, all enveloped in a creamy sauce that your whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Preparation: Whip up this delicious meal in under 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup with this one-pot recipe, keeping your kitchen tidy.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with whole wheat pasta and spinach, this dish is as wholesome as it is delicious.
• Customizable: Easily modify ingredients or add your favorite vegetables to make this dish your own.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will devour this creamy, flavorful pasta dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy pasta dish, along with some substitution suggestions:

• Whole Wheat Pasta (8 ounces): Substitute with chickpea pasta for a gluten-free option or regular pasta if preferred.
• Shallot (1 medium): Use half a small yellow onion if you don’t have shallots on hand.
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (1 pound): Feel free to use chicken thighs for a juicier bite.
• Olive Oil (2 Tablespoons): You can replace this with avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon): Feel free to try smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
• Chicken Broth (1/2 cup): Vegetable broth works great for a vegetarian version.
• Milk (1/2 cup): Substitute with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
• Dijon Mustard (2 teaspoons): This adds tanginess, but you can use yellow mustard if that’s what you have.
• Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon): Italian seasoning can be used as an alternative.
• Salt/Pepper: Adjust to taste.
• Minced Garlic (2 teaspoons): Fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
• Flour (1 Tablespoon): Use cornstarch for a gluten-free thickening agent.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes (1/2 cup): These add a rich flavor; make sure to use the ones packed in oil for extra taste.
• Spinach (1 1/2 cups): Fresh or frozen spinach can be used here.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): Nutritional yeast can be a great substitute for a dairy-free version.
• Crushed Red Pepper (optional): Add for a kick of heat!

How to Make Quick and Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta is cooking, chop the shallot into small pieces and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces (about 3/4″ – 1″ cubes).
3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and paprika, cooking until the chicken is fully cooked (about 10 minutes). Set the chicken aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the shallot and garlic for about 3-5 minutes until softened.
5. Whisk together the chicken broth, milk, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl, and then add this mixture to the skillet.
6. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for about a minute to combine.
7. Bring the sauce to a simmer, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly, whisking often.
8. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, letting them heat through.
9. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the spinach and Parmesan cheese until the spinach wilts.
10. Add back the cooked chicken and pasta, mixing until everything is heated through. Top with crushed red pepper if desired and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Success

• Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Always ensure your chicken is cooked through and juices run clear. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy (165°F is ideal).
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better in the sauce. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
• Whisk Constantly: When thickening the sauce, whisk continuously to prevent lumps.
• Season Wisely: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to your preferences at the end of cooking.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Quality sun-dried tomatoes and good olive oil can elevate this dish significantly.
• Leftover Chicken?: Shredded rotisserie chicken can be a great shortcut for this recipe.
• Experiment with Greens: Feel free to substitute spinach with kale or arugula for different flavors and textures.
• Make It Spicy: Add more crushed red pepper or even some chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist!

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting

• Too Thick Sauce: If your sauce gets too thick, simply add a little more milk or chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Sauce Lacks Flavor: Always taste and adjust your seasoning. Sometimes a little more salt or cheese can enhance the flavors.
• Pasta Overcooked: If your pasta gets overcooked, try to time it so that you’re adding it to the sauce immediately after draining.
• Chicken Not Cooked Evenly: Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

Variations to Try

• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a hearty, meatless meal.
• Herbed Chicken: Marinate chicken in herbs like rosemary or thyme before cooking for added flavor.
• Cheesy Spinach: Mix in ricotta or goat cheese along with Parmesan for a creamier texture.
• Lemon Zest: Add zest from one lemon for a fresh, zesty finish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

This dish is perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

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FAQs

• Can I use frozen spinach? Yes! Just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding to the dish.
• How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.
• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce and store it separately. Cook the pasta fresh right before serving.
• What can I serve with this pasta? A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this meal.
• What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes? You can substitute with fresh cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a different flavor.
• Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, but the texture of the pasta may change slightly. Store in an airtight container and consume within 2 months.
• How do I make the sauce spicier? Add more crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce.
• Is this dish kid-friendly? Absolutely! The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it appealing to kids.

Nutrition Tips and Dietary Adaptations

This dish is not only delicious but also adaptable to various dietary needs. Consider these tips:

• Low-Calorie Option: Use less olive oil and swap out heavy cream for Greek yogurt.
• High-Protein Version: Add extra chicken or beans to boost protein content.
• Vegan Adaptation: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use plant-based milk and vegan cheese.

Equipment Recommendations

To make this recipe a breeze, here are some essential kitchen tools:

• Large Skillet: A non-stick skillet helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements to ensure perfect results.
• Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly, especially for the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Quick and Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta with:

• Garlic Bread: A crunchy side that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing side salad with a light vinaigrette adds a nice balance.
• Grated Parmesan on Top: Finish your dish with an extra sprinkle of cheese for added flavor.

Conclusion

Now you have everything you need to create a delicious and creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta that will delight your family and keep your weeknight dinners exciting. Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process and experimenting with flavors. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s make magic happen in the kitchen tonight!

Print Pin

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 4 servings

Calories 550

A delicious and creamy pasta dish featuring sun-dried tomatoes, tender chicken, and spinach, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Pasta

• 8 ounces whole wheat pasta (or chickpea pasta)

Vegetables & Aromatics

• 1 medium shallot (or 1/2 small yellow onion)
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 medium chicken breasts)
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• salt/pepper to taste salt and pepper
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 Tablespoon flour
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 1/2 cups spinach
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Toppings

• crushed red pepper optional crushed red pepper (for topping)

Instructions 

• Cook pasta according to package directions and drain.
• Chop shallot, cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Cook chicken with 1 tbsp oil and paprika for 10 minutes, then set aside.
• Whisk together broth, milk, mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper. Sauté shallot and garlic in remaining oil, add flour, then pour in sauce and simmer until thickened.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, parmesan, cooked chicken, and pasta. Mix until heated through, top with red pepper if desired.

Notes

Use fresh or dried sun-dried tomatoes for best flavor. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Calories: 550kcal

Cost: $15

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: chicken, creamy, pasta