If you’re searching for a dish that balances heat and comfort, look no further than Spicy Chicken Creamy Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes. This dish combines tender chicken, a velvety creamy sauce, and a touch of heat, all brought together by the rich, tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for any occasion—whether you’re making a cozy weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests—this pasta is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

This Spicy Chicken Creamy Pasta recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a flavorful experience. The perfect harmony of spice and creaminess creates a comforting yet exciting dish. The subtle heat from the spices, balanced by the smooth cream sauce, is further elevated by the intense, tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. With its restaurant-quality flavors and easy cleanup, it’s the kind of dish that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this chicken pasta recipe will soon become a favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Spicy Chicken Creamy Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

This list of ingredients combines bold, savory flavors that come together to create a mouthwatering meal. Be sure to gather everything before starting to ensure a smooth cooking experience:

1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
12 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust for spice preference)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
1 tablespoon butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Tools/Equipment

For this recipe, you’ll need the following basic kitchen equipment to ensure everything cooks perfectly:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: Ideal for cooking the chicken and making the creamy sauce in one pan.
Pot: To boil the pasta.
Tongs or Pasta Spoon: For easily tossing the pasta and chicken together.
Measuring Spoons: To ensure the spices and seasonings are just right.
Colander: For draining the pasta once it’s cooked to al dente perfection.

How to Make Spicy Chicken Creamy Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes

For the Chicken

Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Toss the chicken to ensure an even coating of spices.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through. Once done, set aside.

For the Pasta

Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later.

For the Sauce

Make the Sauce: In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
Add the Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cheese: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Combine the Chicken and Pasta

Bring it All Together: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Then, add the drained pasta, tossing everything together gently. If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Garnish and Serve

Serve and Garnish: Transfer the pasta to serving plates, and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Tips for Cooking

Adjust the Spice Level: You can modify the chili powder and red pepper flakes to suit your heat tolerance. For those who love more heat, a dash of hot sauce can be added to the sauce.
Fresh or Jarred Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If using jarred sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, be sure to drain them well to avoid making the sauce greasy. Fresh sun-dried tomatoes are also a great option for a more vibrant flavor.
Pasta Options: Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work best with this creamy sauce. Penne’s ridges allow the sauce to cling nicely, while fettuccine offers a luxurious bite.
Creamy Sauce Tip: To achieve a thicker, creamier sauce, let it simmer longer. Alternatively, you can add a bit of pasta water to thin the sauce to your preferred consistency.
Pro Tip: Prepare all your ingredients—garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and chicken—before cooking to save time and keep the process smooth.

Serving Suggestions: How to Elevate Your Spicy Chicken Pasta Dish

Pairing with the Right Side Dishes: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with this rich dish. For a heartier meal, consider serving with garlic bread or roasted vegetables.
Garnishing Ideas: A sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a burst of flavor and elevate the presentation of your chicken pasta.
Wine Pairings: A crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy richness of the pasta. Alternatively, a light red wine like Pinot Noir enhances the savory flavors.

Variations of Spicy Chicken Creamy Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes

Making it Lighter: Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative to reduce the calorie count without sacrificing too much flavor. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist.
Vegetarian or Vegan Versions: To make this recipe vegetarian, swap the chicken for grilled mushrooms or tofu. For a vegan option, use plant-based cream and Parmesan alternatives to achieve a creamy texture and flavor.
Adding Extra Vegetables: For a healthier take, incorporate sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers into the pasta. These vegetables add color, texture, and additional nutrients to the dish.

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Spicy Chicken Pasta FAQ

How spicy is this pasta?

The spice level can be easily adjusted by controlling the amount of chili powder and red pepper flakes. If you prefer mild, omit the red pepper flakes.

What to serve with Spicy Chicken Pasta?

Pair it with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or a side of crispy potatoes also complement the dish well.

Can You Eat It Cold?

While this pasta is best served hot, you can enjoy it cold as a pasta salad. Just add a little extra olive oil to keep it moist.

Can You Make It Gluten-Free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta as a substitute.

Can You Make It Dairy-Free?

To make this dish dairy-free, replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free Parmesan alternatives.

Conclusion

Spicy Chicken Creamy Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a must-try for any pasta lover. The creamy, slightly spicy sauce combined with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes creates a dynamic dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Easy to prepare, perfect for all skill levels, and delicious enough for both everyday meals and special occasions, this recipe deserves a spot in your dinner rotation.

Spicy Chicken Creamy Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes