Introduction

Chicken Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a flavor-packed, colorful, and comforting dish that combines tender pieces of chicken with al dente pasta, aromatic basil pesto, and sweet-tangy sun-dried tomatoes. Creamy or olive-oil-based pesto coats every strand of pasta, making each bite satisfying.

The sun-dried tomatoes provide bursts of intense flavor, perfectly complementing the richness of the chicken and the herbal freshness of the pesto. This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep, offering both comfort and elegance on your plate.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple yet sophisticated. The pesto brings a vibrant herbal flavor that makes the dish feel fresh, while the sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet-savory contrast that keeps the palate excited.

It’s quick to prepare, can be made in one pot or skillet if desired, and is endlessly customizable with veggies, cheeses, or different proteins.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Bursting with Flavor: Pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic create a complex, aromatic flavor profile.
• Protein-Packed: Tender chicken makes it a filling and balanced meal.
• Quick & Easy: Perfect for weeknights without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with gluten-free pasta, veggies, or cream for extra richness.
• Family-Friendly: Appeals to kids and adults alike with familiar textures and tastes.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~550 kcal per serving (varies by type of pasta and pesto)

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Main Course / Pasta
• Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Pasta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 12 oz (340 g) pasta of choice (penne, fusilli, or farfalle recommended)

For the Pesto Sauce

• ½ cup prepared basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced (oil-packed preferred)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup reserved pasta cooking water
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream or cream cheese (optional for a creamier version)

Optional Garnish

• Fresh basil leaves
• Extra Parmesan
• Crushed red pepper flakes

Cooking Directions (Overview)

1. Cook pasta al dente.
2. Sauté chicken until golden and cooked through.
3. Stir in garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and pesto.
4. Combine pasta with sauce and finish with cheese.
5. Serve warm and garnish.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water and drain the rest. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
2. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1–2 minutes.
3. Reduce heat to low, add basil pesto, Parmesan cheese, and cream (if using).
4. Stir in reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken

1. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with sauce.
2. Add the cooked pasta and toss gently until everything is evenly combined and heated through.
3. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Serve

• Plate pasta in bowls or on a serving dish.
• Garnish with fresh basil, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired.
• Serve immediately with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

Recipe Tips

• Homemade Pesto: Blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil for maximum flavor.
• Juicy Chicken: Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Tip: Oil-packed tomatoes add richness; dry-packed can be rehydrated in warm water.
• Creamy Option: Add a splash of cream or cream cheese for a richer, velvety sauce.
• Pasta Water Magic: The starchy water helps emulsify and thicken the pesto sauce.

Variations

• Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Seafood Twist: Substitute chicken with shrimp or salmon for a coastal version.
• Low-Carb Version: Serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Extra Flavor: Add crispy pancetta or bacon bits for a smoky touch.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended for best texture, as pasta can become mushy.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or cream to refresh sauce.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon or tongs
• Cheese grater
• Knife and cutting board

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
Yes, store chicken, pasta, and sauce separately. Combine when ready to serve.

Q2: Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely! High-quality store-bought pesto works perfectly.

Q3: Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
Yes, the recipe is flexible with pasta type. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Q4: How do I make it creamier without cream?
Add extra Parmesan and a little pasta water to create a velvety consistency.

Q5: Can this be made vegetarian?
Yes, replace chicken with roasted vegetables or chickpeas.

Conclusion

Chicken Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a quick, elegant, and deliciously comforting dish. It balances the rich flavors of pesto with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and succulent chicken, creating a pasta experience that feels gourmet yet is easy enough for a weeknight. With endless variations and adaptable components, it’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that will become a regular in your kitchen rotation.