This Creamy Chicken Pasta Is a Story I Cook with Love
Every time I prepare this creamy garlic chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes, I’m reminded of the quiet joy that comes from cooking with meaning. This dish isn’t just a recipe — it’s a memory brought to life in my kitchen. I remember the afternoons I spent with my grandmother, where the gentle sound of garlic sizzling in olive oil signaled that something comforting was on its way. She taught me how to cook with patience, how to let flavors speak for themselves, and how even the simplest ingredients — like tender chicken, a handful of pasta, and sun-dried tomatoes — could turn into something extraordinary.
Those sun-dried tomatoes, in particular, were her secret: naturally sweet, slightly tangy, and always made at home under the summer sun. Today, I carry that tradition forward. I simmer the sauce slowly, infuse it with garlic, and fold in the cream until it hugs each piece of chicken and pasta. The result is rich, flavorful, and deeply satisfying — the kind of meal that makes you pause, smile, and serve a second helping. When I cook this, I’m not just feeding people — I’m sharing a piece of my story, one comforting bite at a time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something deeply comforting about a dish that brings together creamy sauce, tender chicken, and the bold flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. This pasta doesn’t just taste good — it feels like home. From the very first bite, the richness of the garlic cream sauce wraps around the pasta like a warm hug, while the sun-dried tomatoes add just the right touch of tangy sweetness to balance everything out. Each ingredient has its place, and together they create a harmony that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
What makes this recipe especially dear to me is how simple it is to prepare. You don’t need fancy tools or complicated steps — just a handful of humble ingredients, one pan, and a bit of care. It’s a perfect weeknight meal when you want something quick but homemade, and just as lovely to serve when guests come by and you want to share something from the heart. If you’re in the mood for something even easier, try my One-Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta — all the comfort, even less cleanup.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this creamy garlic chicken pasta brings joy to the table. It’s cozy, flavorful, and always welcome — a dish that feels special, no matter the occasion.
Ingredients + Instructions.
📝 Ingredients :
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy garlic chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes:
🍗 Chicken breast – 2 medium, sliced into strips
🍝 Pasta – 300g (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite type)
🧄 Garlic – 4 cloves, finely minced
🧅 Onion – 1 small, chopped
🧂 Salt & pepper – to taste
🌿 Dried Italian herbs – 1 tsp (basil, oregano, thyme mix)
🫒 Olive oil – 2 tbsp
🍅 Sun-dried tomatoes – ½ cup, sliced
🥛 Cooking cream – 1½ cups (or use full-fat milk + a spoon of flour)
🧀 Grated parmesan or mozzarella – ½ cup (optional, for extra richness)
🌱 Fresh parsley – chopped, for garnish
💧 Pasta water – ¼ cup (reserve before draining)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about ¼ cup of the cooking water. Set the pasta aside.
2. Prepare the chicken
In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips, season with salt, pepper, and half the Italian herbs. Cook until golden and fully cooked through (about 5–6 minutes). Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics
In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant — don’t let it burn.
4. Add the sun-dried tomatoes
Stir in the sliced sun-dried tomatoes. Let them warm and soften slightly, which helps release their flavor into the base of the sauce.
5. Make it creamy
Lower the heat and pour in the cooking cream. Stir well to combine and let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes. Add a splash of pasta water to help loosen the sauce and make it silky. Optional: stir in the cheese until melted for extra creaminess.
6. Return the chicken and pasta
Add the cooked chicken and pasta into the sauce. Toss everything together gently so the pasta is well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Serve and garnish
Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve warm. Add extra cheese on top if desired.
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it also holds up well for meal prep. The cream sauce stays delicious when reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Serving Tips + Nutrition Info,
🍽️ Serving Tips
This creamy garlic chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is the kind of meal that doesn’t need much to shine. Serve it hot, straight from the pan, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a touch of grated cheese on top for a beautiful finish. A simple side of lightly steamed vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, pairs well to balance the richness of the sauce.
For a cozy family dinner, you can present it in a deep dish or pasta bowl, allowing the sauce to settle into the folds of the pasta. Add warm flatbread or a light salad on the side if you’re serving guests.
🧊 Storage Tips:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce and warm it slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave.
🧮 Estimated Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~550 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 27 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | ~480 mg |
Values are estimated and may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the other name for marry me chicken pasta?
Many people refer to it as “creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta” or “Tuscan chicken pasta.” The flavors — rich cream, garlic, and tomatoes — are so cozy and inviting that the name “marry me chicken” became a fun nickname online.
2. Do Italians use sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, sun-dried tomatoes are a traditional ingredient in Italian cuisine, especially in southern regions. They’re often added to pastas, antipasti, or sauces for their concentrated flavor and vibrant color.
3. How to make creamy chicken tomato pasta?
Start by sautéing garlic and onion, then adding chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and cream. Simmer until thick, then toss with cooked pasta. Finish with herbs and a touch of cheese for added richness.
4. How to make sun-dried tomato cream sauce?
Sauté garlic in olive oil, then stir in sliced sun-dried tomatoes and cooking cream. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. Blend if desired for a smoother texture, or keep it chunky for more bite.
💌 A Personal Note from Chef Joudia
This dish brings comfort with every forkful, and I truly hope it becomes a favorite in your home, just as it is in mine. Whether you’re preparing it for family, guests, or a quiet evening alone, may it nourish you and fill your kitchen with joy. Thank you for cooking with me today — your table is always welcome to share a recipe from the heart.
