One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Pasta with Chicken 😍😋
Description
This one-pot creamy pasta is a quick, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and baby spinach are simmered with pasta in a creamy, Greek yogurt-based sauce, creating a rich yet healthier alternative to heavy cream-based pastas. The Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth, making this dish irresistibly delicious!
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Pasta:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained and chopped
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
- 3 cups chicken broth
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (for creaminess without the heaviness)
- 1 cup packed baby spinach
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken, season with garlic powder, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta in One Pot
- In the same pot, add sun-dried tomatoes, pasta, and chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the broth is absorbed.
Step 3: Make it Creamy
- Lower the heat and stir in Greek yogurt, spinach, and Parmesan cheese.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the pot and mix everything together.
- Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is creamy.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil (optional).
Tips for the Best Creamy Pasta
✅ Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream – It keeps the dish creamy yet light.
✅ Choose the right pasta – Short pasta like penne or fusilli holds the sauce well.
✅ For extra flavor – Add a splash of white wine before cooking the pasta.
✅ Make it extra cheesy – Stir in mozzarella or more Parmesan for richness.
✅ Add more greens – Swap spinach for kale, arugula, or zucchini.
Servings & Nutritional Info
Servings: Makes 4 servings
Calories per serving: ~450 kcal
- Protein: ~40g
- Carbs: ~50g
- Fat: ~10g
- Fiber: ~5g
Health Benefits
✨ Greek Yogurt – High in protein and probiotics, supports digestion.
✨ Spinach – Loaded with iron, fiber, and vitamins A & C.
✨ Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Rich in antioxidants and lycopene for heart health.
✨ Chicken Breast – Lean protein for muscle building and satiety.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes! Skip the chicken and add mushrooms or chickpeas for protein.
Q: Can I use another type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Try whole wheat, gluten-free, or chickpea pasta.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth.
Q: What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
A: Substitute with light cream, cottage cheese, or blended ricotta.
This One-Pot Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Pasta with Chicken is easy, flavorful, and perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Try it out and let me know how it turns out! 🍝✨