Creamy Sundried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Category: Inspiring Dinner Ideas

This quick Italian pasta combines tender chicken and tangy sundried tomatoes in a creamy mozzarella sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special but don't have hours to cook.

Sarah
Created By Sarah John
Updated on Tue, 21 Jan 2025 10:34:51 GMT
A close-up view of baked pasta with chicken, cheese, and herbs in a glass dish. Save
A close-up view of baked pasta with chicken, cheese, and herbs in a glass dish. | kitchenscroll.com

This Chicken Mozzarella Pasta brings Italy straight to your kitchen. After testing countless variations I've perfected this combination of tender chicken al dente pasta and my signature sun dried tomato cream sauce. The melty mozzarella creates that irresistible cheese pull while fresh basil adds brightness to every bite.

A True Italian Comfort

What makes this dish special is how the rich sauce coats every piece of pasta. The sun dried tomatoes add intense flavor while garlic and smoky paprika create depth. It's become my go to recipe when I want something that feels restaurant worthy but comes together easily at home.

Your Essential Ingredients

Start with quality penne pasta and fresh chicken tenderloins. Sun dried tomatoes packed in oil bring amazing flavor. Good mozzarella makes all the difference here while half and half creates that perfect sauce consistency. Fresh garlic and basil are must haves while red pepper flakes add gentle heat.

Creating Your Pasta

Cook your pasta just shy of al dente saving some of that starchy water. Sauté garlic with sun dried tomatoes until fragrant then cook seasoned chicken until golden. The magic happens when you simmer the cream and melt in cheese creating a velvety sauce. Toss everything together letting the pasta finish cooking in that gorgeous sauce.

A close-up view of baked pasta with chicken, cheese, and herbs in a glass dish. Save
A close-up view of baked pasta with chicken, cheese, and herbs in a glass dish. | kitchenscroll.com

Kitchen Secrets

Always undercook pasta slightly it keeps cooking in the sauce. Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully creating the creamiest texture. Keep that pasta water handy it's perfect for adjusting your sauce consistency.

Mix It Up

Sometimes I use shrimp instead of chicken or add mushrooms and spinach. Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce while a crisp salad makes it a complete meal.

Keep It Fresh

Leftovers stay delicious for several days. Warm them gently adding a splash of cream to bring back that silky sauce. Though it's best fresh this dish reheats beautifully for quick weekday lunches.

A close-up dish of baked creamy pasta topped with golden-brown grilled chicken pieces and garnished with green herbs. Save
A close-up dish of baked creamy pasta topped with golden-brown grilled chicken pieces and garnished with green herbs. | kitchenscroll.com

Main Points

This creamy sundried tomato chicken pasta is a quick and delicious Italian-inspired meal. Combining tender chicken, tangy sundried tomatoes, and a rich mozzarella sauce, it's perfect for weeknight dinners when time is short but flavor is essential.

Common Questions About Cooking

→ Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes, any short pasta works well here. Try rotini, fusilli, or bow ties - just cook until al dente and save some pasta water.

→ What can I substitute for half-and-half?

You can mix equal parts heavy cream and milk as mentioned in the recipe. For a lighter version, use whole milk with a splash of cream.

→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead?

Sundried tomatoes have a concentrated flavor that's key to this dish. Fresh tomatoes won't give the same rich taste and might make the sauce watery.

→ How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?

Keep the reserved pasta water handy. Add a splash at a time until you reach your desired consistency. The starchy water helps the sauce stay smooth.

→ Can I make this ahead?

This pasta is best served fresh while the sauce is creamy. If needed, reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce.

Creamy Sundried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Penne pasta tossed with chicken and sundried tomatoes in a creamy mozzarella sauce. Quick, easy and packed with Italian flavors.

Preparation Time
15 minutes
Cooking Duration
20 minutes
Total Time Required
35 minutes
Created By: Sarah John

Recipe Category: Dinner Delights

Skill Level Required: Moderate Skills Needed

Cuisine Style: Italian

Recipe Output: 4 Number of Servings (1.5 quarts)

Dietary Preferences: ~

What You'll Gather

Contains 01 items Penne pasta (8 ounces).
Contains 02 items Chicken tenderloins, sliced (1 pound).
Contains 03 items Salt (1/4 teaspoon plus more to taste).
Contains 04 items Paprika (1/4 teaspoon).
Contains 05 items Garlic cloves, minced (3).
Contains 06 items Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (4 ounces).
Contains 07 items Olive oil (2 tablespoons).
Contains 08 items Half-and-half (1 cup).
Contains 09 items Mozzarella cheese, shredded (1 cup).
Contains 10 items Dried basil (1 tablespoon).
Contains 11 items Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon).

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

Boil penne until al dente. Save 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.

Step 02

Season sliced chicken with salt and paprika.

Step 03

Sauté garlic and tomatoes in oil for 1 minute. Remove tomatoes.

Step 04

Sear chicken 1-2 minutes per side. Set aside.

Step 05

Simmer half-and-half, then whisk in mozzarella until smooth.

Step 06

Add pasta, chicken, tomatoes, basil and pepper flakes. Thin with pasta water if needed.

Important Tips

  1. Can use mix of cream and milk instead of half-and-half.
  2. Adjust red pepper flakes to taste.

Essential Tools

  • Large skillet.
  • Pasta pot.

Allergen Guidance

Double-check ingredients for allergens and consult a health expert if needed.
  • Dairy (cheese, half-and-half).
  • Wheat (pasta).

Nutrition Details (per serving)

This nutrition info is provided as a guide and isn't a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 490
  • Fat Amount: 24 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Protein Amount: 35 g