Chicken Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes

Name: Chicken Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta of your choice; 500g chicken breast, diced; 100g sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh basil, for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Meals

I love cooking, and one of my favorite dishes to whip up is Chicken Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes. The combination of juicy chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and al dente pasta creates a dish that is both comforting and vibrant. I appreciate how quickly this recipe comes together—perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. Let's dive into this savory creation that guarantees satisfaction with every bite.

Created by

Yvette Harrington

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:13:36.035Z

When I first tried making Chicken Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create a dish bursting with flavor. The sun-dried tomatoes not only add a beautiful color but also contribute a savory depth that complements the chicken perfectly. I learned that using high-quality tomatoes really makes a difference, so I always opt for oil-packed varieties for that extra richness.

While testing this recipe, I discovered how crucial it is to cook the pasta just right—al dente is the way to go! It holds up beautifully against the sauce, ensuring that each bite is a delightful mix of textures. I love adding a sprinkle of fresh basil just before serving for an aromatic touch.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Hearty chicken and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes create a flavor explosion.
Quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Balanced textures from tender pasta and succulent chicken make it irresistible.

Understanding the Ingredients

The selection of sun-dried tomatoes plays a crucial role in this dish. They provide a concentrated burst of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken and pasta. When choosing sun-dried tomatoes, look for ones packed in oil as they tend to be more flavorful and moist. If you use dried sun-dried tomatoes instead, be sure to hydrate them in warm water for about 30 minutes before adding them to the recipe.

Using quality olive oil when sautéing the chicken is essential as it not only enhances the flavor but also helps in achieving a beautiful golden sear. A medium heat allows the chicken to cook evenly without burning. Keep an eye on it; if the chicken starts skipping too quickly in the skillet, lower the heat and allow it to cook through more gently.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Cooking the pasta to al dente is key for the overall texture of the dish. This means it should be firm to the bite but not hard. If overcooked, the pasta can become mushy and lose its ability to hold onto the sauce. Start checking your pasta a minute or two before the package's suggested time; it should resemble a slight resistance when bitten.

When tossing the pasta with the sauce in the skillet, make sure to use a pair of tongs or a pasta fork. This will help in evenly distributing the sauce and prevent the pasta from clumping together. Don't hesitate to add a splash of pasta cooking water if things seem too dry; the starchy water helps the sauce adhere better.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

300g pasta of your choice
500g chicken breast, diced
100g sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat. Adjust seasoning if necessary and heat through for another 2 minutes.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the skillet while cooking the chicken. You can also include some spinach or arugula for added nutrition and flavor.

Meal Prep and Storage

This Chicken Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes is an excellent dish for meal prep. You can cook a larger batch and store individual portions in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the pasta gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to help regain moisture.

If you want to make it ahead of time, consider preparing the sauce and pasta separately, then combining them just before serving. This way, the pasta won't absorb too much of the sauce and become too soggy. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months; just ensure that the sauce and pasta are well mixed before freezing.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

I love serving this dish with a side of mixed greens lightly dressed in balsamic vinaigrette. The acidity from the vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta beautifully. You can also add garlic bread to enhance the meal, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

For a twist, try adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini. These can be tossed into the skillet just before the pasta, allowing them to wilt slightly but retain their crunch. Additionally, if you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the pasta with whole wheat or spiralized zucchini noodles. The flavors will remain vibrant, making it a refreshing option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Yes! Shrimp or tofu work great as alternatives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead and combine it with pasta right before serving.

→ What kind of pasta works best?

Any pasta type works, but I recommend penne or fusilli for better sauce adherence.