Chicken Florentine Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Spinach is a luxurious yet approachable pasta dish that brings together the richness of creamy parmesan sauce, the savory depth of sun-dried tomatoes, and the freshness of tender spinach. Inspired by classic Florentine flavors, this recipe elevates everyday ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal that feels both comforting and refined. The combination of juicy pan-seared chicken, vibrant greens, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes creates a symphony of textures and flavors that makes each bite irresistible.

This dish is perfect for family dinners, date nights, or when you want to treat yourself to a meal that’s both wholesome and indulgent. It’s a one-pan-meets-pasta-pot type of recipe that doesn’t require hours of work yet results in a dish that tastes like it simmered all day. Every forkful is creamy, savory, bright, and deeply satisfying.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between creamy and fresh. The sauce is rich without being heavy, thanks to the subtle acidity from the sun-dried tomatoes. The spinach melts into the pasta, adding color, nutrients, and a touch of earthiness that keeps everything light and well-rounded. The chicken adds heartiness, making the dish incredibly satiating, while the parmesan creates an elegant, cheesy finish.

It’s also a flexible recipe that adapts beautifully to different tastes—use heavy cream for a more indulgent dinner, or lighten it up with half-and-half. Swap the pasta shape, switch the greens, or add extra vegetables. It’s the type of dish that feels complete yet customizable, making it a go-to weeknight favorite.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it:

• Offers a beautiful combination of creaminess, tanginess, and freshness
• Makes an impressive dinner with minimal effort
• Uses simple ingredients that are easy to find year-round
• Works as a full meal in itself—protein, veggies, and pasta in one
• Is family-friendly and elegant enough for entertaining
• Comes together in under an hour

If you’re craving comfort food that still feels bright and flavorful, this pasta is exactly what you need.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, Calories, Course, and Cuisine

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Estimated Calories: 550–650 calories per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)

For the Pasta and Sauce

• 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, bow tie, or rigatoni)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter sauce)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 tablespoon sun-dried tomato oil for extra flavor

Cooking Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. Season the chicken and cook in olive oil until golden and fully cooked; remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, melt the butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
4. Add sun-dried tomatoes, then stir in the chicken broth and cream.
5. Simmer until slightly thickened. Add parmesan and melt thoroughly.
6. Stir in spinach until wilted.
7. Add cooked pasta and chicken back to the pan, mixing until everything is well coated.
8. Adjust seasoning and consistency using reserved pasta water if needed.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook pasta until al dente, then drain, reserving some pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

• Season chicken strips with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high.
• Cook chicken until golden brown and no longer pink. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

• In the same skillet, lower heat and add butter.
• Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.
• Stir in sliced sun-dried tomatoes.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

• Add chicken broth and heavy cream.
• Simmer for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.
• Add parmesan and stir until melted and creamy.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

• Add spinach and cook until wilted and blended into the sauce.

Step 6: Combine Everything

• Return cooked chicken to the skillet.
• Add the pasta and toss to coat in the sauce.
• Add pasta water as needed for silkiness.

Step 7: Final Seasoning

• Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and parmesan as needed.

How to Serve This Recipe

• Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
• Garnish with extra parmesan and cracked black pepper.
• Add fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color.
• Pair with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Use freshly grated parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
• Do not let the cream boil vigorously; keep heat low.
• Slice chicken thinly so it cooks quickly and evenly.
• Add extra spinach if you prefer a greener pasta.
• Save pasta water—it helps thicken and emulsify the sauce.

Variations

• Mushroom Florentine Pasta: Add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami.
• Cajun Chicken Florentine: Season chicken with Cajun spices for a spicy version.
• Shrimp Florentine Pasta: Replace chicken with sautéed shrimp.
• Creamy Tomato Florentine: Add 1/2 cup marinara for a rosé-style sauce.
• Pesto Florentine: Stir in 1 tablespoon basil pesto for extra herb richness.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Not ideal, as cream sauces may separate; however, it can be frozen for 1–2 months if necessary.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for pasta
• Large sauté pan or skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use milk instead of cream?
Milk alone will not give the same creamy texture, but half-and-half works well.

Can I use jarred sun-dried tomatoes in oil?
Yes, they give excellent flavor; you can even use some of the oil for cooking.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and seasonings are gluten-free.

Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely—zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli work well.

Why is my sauce too thick?
Add reserved pasta water or a splash of broth.

Why is my sauce too thin?
Simmer a few minutes longer or add more parmesan.

Conclusion

Chicken Florentine Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Spinach is a hearty yet elegant dish that combines rich creaminess with vibrant, fresh flavors. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet refined enough for special occasions. With its luscious sauce, tender chicken, and beautifully balanced ingredients, this pasta promises comfort, satisfaction, and a burst of flavor in every bite. Once you try it, it’s sure to become one of your go-to pasta favorites.