Easy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you are searching for a delicious and comforting meal that comes together quickly, this Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta is exactly what you need. Bursting with vibrant flavors, this dish features tender chicken, smoky turkey bacon, tangy sun dried tomatoes, and a luscious creamy sauce made with plant-based cheese that makes every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining friends, this Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta recipe delivers a satisfying, colorful, and easy-to-make dish everyone will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Creamy Comfort: Plant-based cheese creates a rich, velvety sauce that’s dreamy without being heavy.
• Flavor Explosion: The tang of sun dried tomatoes combined with smoky turkey bacon makes every bite exciting.
• Versatile: Great for customizing with your favorite herbs and veggies.
• Family Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it a household favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping things simple yet flavorful is what makes this recipe shine. Each ingredient plays an important role, from the juicy chicken adding protein to the sun dried tomatoes offering a bold, tangy kick and the plant-based cheese giving the sauce its creamy texture and comforting warmth.

• Chicken breasts: Tender and juicy, they are the main protein that soaks up the flavors beautifully.
• Smoked turkey bacon: Adds a subtle smoky, savory crunch without overpowering the dish.
• Sun dried tomatoes: Provide concentrated sweetness and tanginess that balances the creaminess.
• Plant-based cheese (cream cheese style): Creates the luscious, smooth sauce that binds everything together perfectly.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced for an aromatic depth of flavor.
• Chicken broth: Enhances the sauce with a gentle savory undertone.
• Apple cider vinegar (natural): Adds brightness and a slight tang to lift the dish.
• Fresh spinach: Adds a vibrant green color and fresh earthiness.
• Pasta of your choice: Penne or fusilli hold the sauce well for the perfect bite every time.
• Fresh basil (natural): Garnishes with a sweet herbal brightness that finishes the dish beautifully.

Variations for Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tweak it depending on what’s in your kitchen or dietary preferences. The core flavors stay amazing no matter how you adjust, so feel free to get creative.

• Vegetarian twist: Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or firm tofu for a hearty plant-based version.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to bring a gentle heat to the creamy sauce.
• Different greens: Try kale, arugula, or Swiss chard instead of spinach for varied textures and flavors.
• Whole grain pasta: Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber.
• Extra protein: Toss in chickpeas or white beans for an additional protein hit.

How to Make Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by slicing the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and chopping the smoked turkey bacon into small strips. Mince the garlic and roughly chop the sun dried tomatoes. This prep sets the stage for a smooth cooking flow.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water to add for adjusting sauce consistency later.

Step 3: Sauté Chicken and Smoked Turkey Bacon

Heat a large skillet over medium heat, then add the smoked turkey bacon pieces. Cook until they start to crisp and release their wonderful smoky aroma. Add the chicken pieces next and sauté until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, stir in the minced garlic and sun dried tomatoes. Pour in chicken broth and apple cider vinegar (natural) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Then, stir in the plant-based cream cheese until it melts into a silky, creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add some reserved pasta water to loosen.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Greens

Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta and fresh spinach to the skillet. Toss everything together so the sauce coats the pasta evenly and the spinach wilts gently, lending a fresh, vibrant layer to the dish.

Step 6: Final Touches

Season with salt and pepper to your taste, then sprinkle chopped fresh basil (natural) over the top. Give it one last gentle toss to marry all the components, then it’s ready to serve!

Pro Tips for Making Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

• Use room temperature chicken: It cooks more evenly and stays juicy throughout.
• Save pasta water: The natural starch helps thin the sauce without diluting flavor.
• Cook bacon first: Getting the smoked turkey bacon crispy adds depth to the overall dish.
• Don’t overcook spinach: Adding it last preserves its color and texture beautifully.
• Adjust acidity carefully: Add apple cider vinegar gradually for balanced brightness.

How to Serve Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil (natural), cracked black pepper, and a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil brightens and finishes the dish with fresh aromas and shine.

Side Dishes

Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad, garlic roasted vegetables, or warm crusty bread to soak up every bit of sauce and round out the meal delightfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in shallow bowls with a scattering of toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for a bit of crunch. You can also layer the pasta over a bed of sautéed zucchini noodles for extra veggies and color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld nicely overnight, making it an even tastier lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Pack it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to keep the texture creamy and smooth.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! This dish works great with penne, fusilli, farfalle, or even whole wheat pasta, so feel free to use your favorite kind.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, the use of plant-based cheese ensures that this recipe is dairy-free while still delivering that creamy, comforting consistency.

How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

You can toss in spinach, kale, or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking to boost nutrition and add color.

What can I substitute for smoked turkey bacon?

If you prefer, smoked turkey slices or even smoked turkey sausage can be used to maintain that rich smoky flavor.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for meal prep?

Definitely! It stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully, making it a perfect option for make-ahead meals.

Final Thoughts

This Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta combines ease, flavor, and comfort in one beautiful dish that’s perfect any day of the week. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, it hits that satisfying spot every time. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the vibrant, creamy taste of this favorite recipe made with smoky turkey bacon and plant-based cheese!

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