Introduction

Chicken Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is the perfect example of how simple, fresh ingredients can come together to create something truly irresistible. This dish balances the earthy, herby flavor of basil pesto with the sweet-tart punch of sun-dried tomatoes, paired with juicy chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a dish that feels both gourmet and comforting, ideal for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for entertaining.

The vibrant green pesto coats each piece of pasta with creamy, garlicky goodness, while the sun-dried tomatoes provide little bursts of tangy sweetness. Tossed together with tender chicken, it’s a satisfying meal that’s rich in flavor but surprisingly easy to prepare.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it checks every box—quick, flavorful, comforting, and versatile. It’s one of those pasta dishes that looks and tastes like it came from a restaurant but can be made in just 30 minutes at home. I especially love the way the pesto clings to the pasta, infusing every bite with its fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan notes. The sun-dried tomatoes add a delicious contrast that keeps the dish lively and balanced, while the chicken makes it hearty enough to serve as a complete meal.

It’s a recipe I return to often because it’s adaptable—you can swap the pasta shape, use homemade or store-bought pesto, or even add extra veggies. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it beautifully combines freshness, richness, and convenience all in one bowl. The vibrant basil pesto coats the pasta with herby, garlicky goodness, while the sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet-tart punch that elevates the entire flavor profile. Add to that tender, juicy chicken, and you’ve got a meal that’s not just filling but truly satisfying.

What makes it so special is how it strikes the perfect balance:

• Fresh & Aromatic → The pesto brings a burst of garden-fresh basil, Parmesan, and garlic.
• Tangy & Sweet → Sun-dried tomatoes add a depth of flavor you don’t get from fresh tomatoes.
• Comforting & Hearty → The chicken and pasta make it a complete, protein-rich dish.
• Quick & Easy → It’s ready in just about 30 minutes, yet it looks and tastes like something you’d order at an Italian restaurant.

It’s also incredibly versatile—you can make it creamy with a splash of cream, spicy with red pepper flakes, or veggie-packed by adding zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. Whether you’re cooking for your family, preparing a weeknight meal, or impressing dinner guests, this dish delivers every time.

In short, Chicken Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a must-try because it’s a flavorful, wholesome, and restaurant-quality meal that anyone can make at home with ease.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories (approx.): 520 per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) penne or rotini pasta (or any pasta of choice)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and sliced
• ½ cup chicken broth (or pasta cooking water)
• 1 cup prepared basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional for creamier texture)
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Cooking Directions

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté until golden brown and cooked through (about 6–7 minutes). Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes.
4. Stir in chicken broth (or reserved pasta water) and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
5. Lower heat and add pesto, stirring to combine. If using, add heavy cream for a richer sauce.
6. Return chicken to the skillet, then add cooked pasta. Toss well to coat everything in the sauce.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Boil Pasta: Cook until al dente, drain, and reserve pasta water.
2. Cook Chicken: Season, sauté until golden, and set aside.
3. Prepare Base: Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Create Sauce: Add broth, pesto, and cream (optional).
5. Combine Everything: Toss in chicken and pasta.
6. Finish: Add Parmesan and garnish with basil.

How to Serve

Serve hot, straight from the skillet, in shallow pasta bowls. Pair with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully.

Recipe Tips

• Use homemade pesto for the freshest flavor.
• Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
• For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone.
• Don’t overcook the chicken—remove it once it’s golden to keep it juicy.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers to the garlic.
• Cheesy: Top with mozzarella and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly.
• Seafood Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp or scallops for a fresh twist.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Pasta pot with strainer
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater

FAQ

Q: Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes! Store-bought pesto works well, though homemade offers fresher flavor.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and pasta ahead, then toss everything with the sauce before serving.

Q: What pasta shape works best?
Short pastas like penne, fusilli, or rotini hold the pesto sauce well, but spaghetti or linguine also work.

Conclusion

Chicken Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and tangy flavors, all in one comforting bowl. It’s quick enough for a weeknight yet elegant enough for special occasions, making it a true kitchen hero. With its adaptability, vibrant colors, and bold taste, this pasta dish will easily become a favorite in your home.