Introduction
If you love pasta dishes that are creamy, tasty, and full of fresh flavors, then this Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is perfect for you! It’s a delicious meal that combines tender chicken, healthy spinach, and the rich taste of sun-dried tomatoes in a creamy sauce. This recipe is easy to make, filling, and great for any day of the week.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or friends, this pasta dish will surely impress everyone. The best part? You don’t need to be a chef to make it! With simple steps and common ingredients, you can prepare this creamy pasta quickly and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
Ingredients – Creamy Chicken Pasta
Here’s what you will need to make this tasty Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
- 2 cups of uncooked pasta (penne or fettuccine work well)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Step by Step Process – Creamy Chicken Pasta
Let’s get started with the cooking! Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente (which means cooked but still firm). Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Save a small cup of pasta water — it might help to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until they are fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips or bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Cheese
Add the fresh spinach leaves to the sauce and stir until the spinach wilts down. Then mix in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the creamy sauce. Toss everything together so the pasta and chicken are well coated with the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let the flavors mix well.
Step 6: Serve
Taste the pasta and add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if you like.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 kcal |
| Protein | 40 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 45 grams |
| Fat | 20 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 10 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Sugar | 5 grams |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
| Vitamin A | 60% of daily value |
| Calcium | 25% of daily value |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can use any pasta you like, such as spaghetti, fusilli, or rigatoni. Just adjust cooking time according to the pasta package.
Q2: What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter option. Coconut milk is a good dairy-free substitute but changes the flavor slightly.
Q3: How long does this dish stay fresh?
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if it gets too thick.
Q4: Can I prepare this recipe without chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works great as a vegetarian dish by leaving out the chicken or replacing it with mushrooms or tofu.
Q5: Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary?
Sun-dried tomatoes add a nice tangy and sweet flavor, but if you don’t have any, you can use cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers as alternatives.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that combines simple ingredients into a rich and flavorful dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting but quick to prepare. Plus, it packs a good balance of protein, veggies, and carbs to keep you full and satisfied.
Give this recipe a try and see how a few basic ingredients can come together to create a meal that tastes like it’s from a fancy restaurant. Don’t forget to share it with your family or friends – everyone will love this creamy, tasty pasta! Happy cooking!
