Here’s a cozy and flavor-packed recipe for One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Pasta with Chicken — the kind of meal that feels fancy but comes together with minimal fuss and cleanup. Creamy, garlicky, and loaded with rich tomato flavor and tender chicken, it’s perfect for busy nights or impressing without the stress.
🍝 One Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato & Spinach Pasta with Chicken
🕒 Ready in: 30–35 minutes
🍽️ Serves: 4–6
🧂 Ingredients
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2 tbsp olive oil (use the oil from your sun-dried tomato jar if possible)
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), chopped
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2 ½ cups chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream (or half & half for lighter)
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8 oz penne, farfalle, or any short pasta
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2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes, fresh basil for garnish
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and mostly cooked through (about 5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the garlic & tomatoes
In the same pot, reduce heat slightly. Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add liquids & pasta
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
Add the uncooked pasta and bring the mixture to a low boil. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Simmer until pasta is cooked
Cover loosely and simmer for about 12–15 minutes, or until pasta is tender and sauce is slightly thickened. Stir occasionally.
5. Add chicken, spinach & cheese
Return the cooked chicken to the pot along with chopped spinach and Parmesan cheese.
Stir everything together until the spinach wilts and chicken is heated through (2–3 minutes).
6. Taste & finish
Taste and adjust seasoning — add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
7. Serve
Garnish with more Parmesan, fresh basil, or a drizzle of sun-dried tomato oil. Serve hot!
🔁 Variations
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Use Italian sausage or shrimp instead of chicken
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Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra veg
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Swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free version
Would you like a baked version, a low-carb alternative, or the nutrition breakdown for this dish next?
