There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of creamy chicken and sun-dried tomato pasta, especially when it comes together easily in your own kitchen. You know those recipes that feel indulgent and restaurant-worthy, yet are simple enough for a busy weeknight? This is one of them. With tender chicken, a silky garlic cream sauce, and the bold, slightly tangy bite of sun-dried tomatoes, every forkful feels rich, balanced, and incredibly satisfying.
I love how versatile this dish is—it’s cozy enough for a quiet dinner at home, but elegant enough to serve when guests come over. Whether you’re craving a quick chicken pasta dinner, looking for a comforting meal the whole family will enjoy, or just want to elevate your usual pasta routine, this recipe delivers without unnecessary fuss. Let’s dive into a creamy, flavorful pasta that proves comfort food can be both simple and impressive.
Key Benefits & Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy chicken and sun-dried tomato pasta is the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again—and for good reason. It strikes that sweet spot between comfort food and everyday practicality, giving you bold flavor without complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.
Here’s why this recipe truly shines:
- Creamy without feeling heavy
The sauce is rich, smooth, and satisfying, yet balanced enough to let the chicken, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes shine. Using almond milk keeps the texture silky while preventing the dish from feeling overly rich. - Big flavor, simple ingredients
Sun-dried tomatoes add a deep, slightly tangy intensity that instantly elevates the dish, while Parmesan cheese brings a savory, nutty finish. Every ingredient has a purpose—nothing extra, nothing wasted. - Perfect for busy nights or relaxed dinners
This chicken pasta recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknights, but it also feels elegant enough to serve when you want something a little special without extra stress. - Flexible and forgiving
Whether you’re swapping pasta shapes, adjusting the seasoning, or adding extra basil, this recipe adapts beautifully. It’s hard to mess up, which makes it especially comforting if you’re cooking after a long day. - Family-friendly with gourmet appeal
Creamy pasta dishes are always a crowd-pleaser, and this one delivers familiar comfort with a slightly elevated twist. It’s equally loved by picky eaters and flavor-seekers alike.
If you’re looking for an easy creamy chicken pasta that feels homemade, flavorful, and deeply satisfying, this recipe checks every box—and then some.
Ingredients
This creamy chicken and sun-dried tomato pasta relies on simple, well-balanced ingredients that work together to create rich flavor without unnecessary complexity. Each component plays a clear role, so choosing good-quality basics will make a noticeable difference.
For the pasta and mix-ins
- Whole wheat pasta (farfalle or similar) – Holds the creamy sauce beautifully while adding a slightly nutty depth.
- Cooked chicken breast – Tender, lean, and already cooked to keep this recipe quick and stress-free.
- Sun-dried tomatoes – Intensely flavorful with a subtle tang that cuts through the creaminess.
- Fresh basil – Adds freshness and a light herbal finish that brightens the entire dish.
For the creamy sauce
- Butter or olive oil – Creates a rich base and enhances the garlic flavor.
- Garlic – Brings warmth and depth to the cream sauce without overpowering it.
- Almond milk – Produces a smooth, silky texture while keeping the sauce lighter than traditional cream-based versions.
- All-purpose flour – Gently thickens the sauce for a perfectly coated pasta.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds saltiness, umami, and a classic creamy finish.
- Salt and black pepper – Simple seasonings that allow the main flavors to shine.
Optional toppings
- Crushed red pepper flakes for gentle heat
- Toasted pine nuts for crunch and contrast
- Extra Parmesan for serving
Keeping the ingredient list focused ensures this creamy chicken pasta recipe stays approachable while still delivering restaurant-style flavor right at home.

Instructions
This creamy chicken and sun-dried tomato pasta comes together smoothly when you follow the steps in order. Think of it as layering flavor—each stage builds on the last to create a rich, cohesive dish.
- Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, following the package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
Tip: Properly salted water enhances the flavor of the pasta from the inside out. - Start the creamy sauce
While the pasta cooks, heat the butter or olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid browning. - Build the sauce base
Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for about one minute. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and ensures a smooth, lump-free cream sauce. - Whisk in the almond milk
Slowly pour in the almond milk while whisking, allowing the mixture to turn silky and smooth. Bring it to a gentle simmer and cook until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. - Finish with cheese and seasoning
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes glossy and rich. Reduce heat to low to keep warm. - Combine everything
Add the cooked pasta, chicken pieces, sun-dried tomatoes, and half of the fresh basil to the pan. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. - Serve immediately
Garnish with the remaining basil and finish with extra Parmesan, toasted pine nuts, or red pepper flakes if desired.
Following these steps ensures a smooth, flavorful chicken pasta with perfectly balanced creaminess in every bite.
Pro Tips and Variations
Once you’ve mastered the base of this creamy chicken and sun-dried tomato pasta, it’s easy to customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. These tips and variations help you fine-tune the dish while keeping the sauce smooth and flavorful.
Pro tips for best results
- Grate your own Parmesan for the smoothest sauce. Pre-shredded cheese can prevent proper melting.
- Keep the heat gentle once the cheese is added. High heat can cause the sauce to separate.
- Save a splash of pasta water before draining. If the sauce thickens too much, a small amount helps loosen it without diluting flavor.
- Add basil at the end to preserve its fresh aroma and bright color.
Easy variations to try
- Make it extra creamy: Stir in a little more almond milk or an extra spoonful of Parmesan just before serving.
- Switch the protein: Rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken thighs, or even shrimp work beautifully in this creamy pasta.
- Change the pasta shape: Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine all hold the cream sauce well.
- Add vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted broccoli blend seamlessly into the dish.
- Turn up the heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil adds subtle warmth.
These small adjustments let you personalize this creamy chicken pasta recipe while keeping its comforting, restaurant-style appeal intact.
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
This creamy chicken and sun-dried tomato pasta is rich, comforting, and satisfying on its own, but the right pairings can elevate it into a well-rounded meal that feels thoughtfully composed.
Serving ideas
- Serve the pasta hot, straight from the pan, while the sauce is silky and perfectly coated.
- Finish each plate with a light sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and torn basil for a fresh, aromatic touch.
- If serving guests, a shallow pasta bowl helps showcase the creamy sauce and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes.
Perfect pairings
- Fresh salads: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the creamy sauce.
- Vegetable sides: Roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, or garlic broccolini add color and texture.
- Bread options: Warm crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
- Beverages: A chilled white wine with bright acidity or sparkling water with lemon complements the dish without overpowering it.
Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a relaxed dinner party, these pairings help the creamy chicken pasta feel complete, balanced, and effortlessly elegant.
Tools and Equipment Guide
Having the right tools on hand makes preparing this creamy chicken and sun-dried tomato pasta smooth, efficient, and stress-free. Nothing fancy is required—just a few reliable kitchen essentials that help the recipe come together effortlessly.
Essential tools
- Large pot: Needed for boiling pasta evenly without sticking.
- Colander: For draining the pasta thoroughly while keeping its texture intact.
- Large sauté pan or skillet: Wide enough to build the cream sauce and toss everything together without crowding.
- Whisk: Key for creating a smooth, lump-free creamy sauce.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Ideal for stirring the sauce gently and combining ingredients.
Helpful extras
- Microplane or fine grater: For freshly grating Parmesan, which melts more smoothly into the sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure balanced seasoning and consistent results.
- Tongs: Helpful for tossing the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
Using these basic tools allows you to focus on flavor and technique, ensuring your creamy chicken pasta recipe turns out perfectly textured and beautifully combined every time.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with a straightforward recipe like this creamy chicken and sun-dried tomato pasta, small adjustments can make a big difference. If something doesn’t turn out exactly as expected, these quick fixes will help you get back on track.
Sauce too thick
- Lower the heat and gradually whisk in a splash of almond milk or reserved pasta water.
- Stir gently until the sauce loosens and becomes silky again.
Sauce too thin
- Let it simmer for an extra minute or two, stirring often.
- Add a small sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan to help thicken and add flavor.
Grainy or separated sauce
- Reduce the heat immediately and stir continuously.
- Make sure the Parmesan is finely grated and added slowly to prevent clumping.
Pasta feels dry after mixing
- Toss the pasta with the sauce while everything is still warm.
- Add a tablespoon or two of pasta water to rehydrate and recoat the noodles.
Garlic tastes bitter
- Garlic cooks quickly—sauté just until fragrant, not browned.
- If it browns too fast, lower the heat before continuing.
These simple adjustments ensure your creamy chicken pasta stays smooth, flavorful, and perfectly balanced from start to finish.
FAQs

Creamy Chicken and Sundried Tomato Pasta
This creamy chicken and sun-dried tomato pasta is the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again—and for good reason.
Ingredients
Pasta & Mix-ins:
- 12 oz whole wheat pasta (farfalle or similar)
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 (6 oz) jar sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- ⅓ cup fresh basil, chopped or julienned
Creamy Sauce:
- 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups Almond Breeze Unsweetened Original or Extra Creamy Almondmilk
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Optional Toppings:
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Toasted pine nuts
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, warm butter or olive oil. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in flour and cook for about one minute, stirring constantly.
- Slowly whisk in almond milk until smooth. Simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Add Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Reduce heat to low. Add pasta, chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and half the basil. Toss until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with remaining basil and optional toppings.
Notes
- For the smoothest sauce: Always add cheese over low heat and stir continuously.
- Too thick? Loosen with a splash of pasta water or almond milk.
- Extra flavor boost: Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for deeper richness.
- Make it your own: Add spinach, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables for extra texture and nutrition.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 480Total Fat: 16gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 520mgCarbohydrates: 48gFiber: 6gSugar: 4gProtein: 36g


