If you’re craving a comforting yet elegant pasta dish that combines tender chicken, rich creaminess, and the vibrant punch of sun-dried tomatoes, then this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Penne is exactly what you need. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that feels special enough for guests but simple enough to whip up in no time. With every bite, you’ll enjoy the silky sauce coating each penne noodle, accented by the bright, slightly tangy sun-dried tomatoes and a sprinkle of fresh basil to finish. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and ease.

Reasons to Love Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Penne

Rich and Flavorful: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning creates a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the penne.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy evenings but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Balanced Ingredients: Tender chicken breast provides lean protein, while sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of umami and tang.
Versatile: This recipe can easily be customized with your favorite herbs or swapped with other pasta shapes.
Perfect Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, it ticks all the boxes for a cozy dinner.

What Goes In

8 oz penne pasta: The ideal noodle shape to hold the creamy sauce.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and garlic.
1 pound chicken breast, diced: Adds protein and heartiness to the dish.
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Provides a sweet and tangy depth.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with warm, aromatic flavor.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luxurious, silky sauce base.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and enhances creaminess.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for that classic Italian flair.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
Fresh basil for garnish: Brightens the dish and adds a fresh herbal note.

Gear Checklist

Large pot: For boiling the penne pasta.
Large skillet or frying pan: To cook the chicken and make the sauce.
Colander: To drain the cooked pasta.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring the sauce and pasta together.
Knife and cutting board: To dice the chicken and chop the sun-dried tomatoes.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy with the cream, cheese, and seasonings.

Stepwise Method: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the tomatoes soften slightly.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic and tomatoes. Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, letting the sauce thicken.

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Chicken

Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes smooth. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat each piece with the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Penne.

Texture-Safe Substitutions

Penne Pasta: Swap for rigatoni, fusilli, or Baked Ziti With Ricotta style pasta for a different shape that holds sauce well.
Chicken: Use turkey breast or firm tofu cubes for a plant-based option.
Heavy Cream: Substitute with coconut cream or a cashew cream for a dairy-free but equally creamy texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Try a vegetarian hard cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Roasted red peppers can provide a milder, sweet alternative.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

Sauce Too Thick: Add reserved pasta water or a splash of milk to thin it out gradually.
Chicken Overcooked: To avoid dryness, sauté chicken just until cooked through and add it back to the sauce to stay juicy.
Sauce Not Creamy Enough: Make sure to allow the Parmesan to fully melt and incorporate; adding a bit more cream can help.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes Too Tough: Chop finely or soak in warm water for a few minutes before cooking to soften.

Best Ways to Store

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. This will help maintain the creamy texture and prevent the dish from drying out.

Before You Go

Next time you want to impress with minimal effort, remember this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Penne. It’s a crowd-pleaser that balances indulgence with simplicity, making it a staple for your recipe collection. Don’t forget to play around with fresh herbs or add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a subtle kick. Cooking is all about making dishes your own!

Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite of this delicious pasta, and happy cooking!

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