Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

This creamy sun-dried tomato chicken ravioli combines tender pasta pillows with succulent chicken pieces in a luxurious sauce that's both comforting and sophisticated. The perfect balance of tangy sun-dried tomatoes and rich cream creates a restaurant-worthy meal that comes together quickly in your own kitchen.

I first made this dish when I needed to impress my in-laws during their first visit to our home. The empty plates and requests for seconds told me everything I needed to know. Now it's our go-to special occasion meal that feels fancy without requiring hours in the kitchen.

• Cheese ravioli provides the perfect pasta base with pockets of creamy cheese that complement the sauce beautifully
• Chicken breasts add lean protein and absorb all the wonderful flavors of the seasonings
• Olive oil helps achieve that perfect golden sear on the chicken pieces
• Salt and black pepper are essential for bringing out all the flavors
• Garlic powder infuses the chicken with aromatic flavor while cooking
• Italian seasoning adds an herbaceous quality with minimal effort
• Red pepper flakes bring a gentle heat that balances the rich cream
• Fresh garlic intensifies the flavor profile beyond what dried garlic alone can provide
• Sun dried tomatoes contribute intense sweetness and tanginess as the star ingredient
• Green onions offer a mild allium flavor and pretty color contrast
• Fresh parsley brightens the dish with color and a fresh herbal note
• Heavy cream creates the luxurious base of the sauce that coats every bite
• Chicken broth adds savory depth while thinning the cream to the perfect consistency
• Parmesan cheese thickens the sauce while adding rich umami flavor

How To Make Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Prepare the pasta

Cook the frozen ravioli according to package directions until they float to the surface and are tender. Be careful not to overcook them as they'll continue to soften slightly in the sauce. Reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid is your secret weapon for adjusting sauce consistency later.

Season and cook the chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. Add your chicken pieces and sprinkle with all the seasonings. Let the pieces develop a golden crust before stirring, about 2 minutes. Continue cooking until no pink remains in the center and the edges are caramelized. This step builds the foundation of flavor for the entire dish.

Create the aromatic base

Add the garlic, sun dried tomatoes, green onions, and parsley to the cooked chicken. Stir constantly for 2 minutes, allowing the heat to release the essential oils in the garlic and herbs. The pan will become intensely fragrant. This quick cooking prevents the garlic from burning while awakening all the flavors.

Develop the sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate any browned bits. Let the liquid come to a gentle simmer where small bubbles form around the edges. Allow the sauce to reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes, which concentrates the flavors and thickens the texture.

Combine and finish

Gently fold the cooked ravioli into the sauce, turning carefully to coat each piece without breaking the delicate pasta. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts completely into the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until it reaches a silky consistency that clings to the pasta.

Sun dried tomatoes are the ingredient that truly makes this dish special. I discovered their intense flavor after receiving a jar as a gift from an Italian neighbor. The concentrated sweetness and umami they bring to this sauce creates depth that would normally require hours of cooking. Now I always keep a jar in my pantry for when I want to elevate an ordinary meal to extraordinary.

Storage Solutions

This dish keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually continue to develop overnight, making leftovers something to look forward to. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce as it will thicken when cold. Warm gently over medium-low heat or in short intervals in the microwave to prevent the sauce from separating.

Clever Substitutions

Don't have ravioli on hand? This sauce works wonderfully with any pasta shape. Try penne, fettuccine, or even tortellini. The chicken can be swapped for Italian sausage, shrimp, or even white beans for a different protein option. If heavy cream isn't available, use half and half mixed with a tablespoon of butter for a similar richness, or even full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative with a subtle tropical note.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy ravioli dish stands beautifully on its own, but a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil provides the perfect peppery counterpoint to the rich sauce. For an impressive presentation, serve in shallow bowls with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, crushed red pepper flakes, and a few fresh parsley leaves. A crusty baguette on the side ensures you won't miss a drop of the decadent sauce.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh ravioli works perfectly in this dish. It typically cooks faster than frozen, so adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to avoid overcooking. The fresh pasta will absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream to make this lighter?

For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt. For a dairy-free alternative, full-fat coconut milk works well, though it will add a slight coconut flavor to the dish.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce, as it will thicken when chilled. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave in short intervals.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the creamy sun-dried tomato chicken sauce ahead of time, but it's best to cook the ravioli fresh before serving. Reheat the sauce gently, cook the ravioli, then combine them just before serving to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

This rich, creamy dish pairs perfectly with light sides like a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette, steamed asparagus, or roasted broccoli. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also excellent for soaking up the delicious sauce.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs make an excellent substitution and often result in juicier meat. They may need an extra minute or two of cooking time, but otherwise, the preparation remains the same.