Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Ravioli

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Ravioli – Rich, Tangy & Weeknight Gourmet

This luscious ravioli dish features tender chicken, a velvety sun-dried tomato cream sauce, and pillowy pasta—all tossed together in one skillet for a comforting, flavor-packed meal.

Introduction: A Pasta Dish That Feels Like a Hug

There’s something magical about creamy pasta—especially when it’s infused with the bold, tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Ravioli is the kind of dish that feels indulgent but comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, romantic dinners, or when you just want something cozy and satisfying.

With juicy chicken, rich Parmesan, and optional spinach for a pop of color and nutrients, this recipe is a one-pan wonder that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish so irresistible:

For the Chicken & Ravioli:

  • Frozen ravioli (1 lb)
    Use cheese, spinach, or mushroom ravioli—whatever you love.
  • Olive oil (2 tbsp)
    For sautéing the chicken and adding richness.
  • Chicken breasts (2, diced)
    Tender and juicy—cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
  • Salt & pepper
    To taste—season generously.
  • Garlic powder (1 tsp)
    Adds depth and aroma.
  • Italian seasoning (1 tsp)
    A blend of herbs that complements the sauce beautifully.
  • Red pepper flakes (½ tsp, optional)
    Adds a subtle kick—adjust to your heat preference.

For the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce:

  • Butter (1 tbsp)
    Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic.
  • Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
    Fragrant and essential.
  • Sun-dried tomatoes (½ cup, chopped)
    Preferably packed in oil—drain before using.
  • Heavy cream (1 cup)
    Creates a silky, indulgent base.
  • Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated)
    Adds salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
  • Chicken broth (½ cup)
    Adds depth and balances the cream.
  • Fresh spinach (2 cups, optional)
    Adds color, nutrients, and freshness.

Optional: Garnish with fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flair.

Equipment Needed

  • Large pot (for ravioli)
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Stove

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add 1 lb frozen ravioli and cook according to package instructions (3–5 minutes).

Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:

  • Heat 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Add diced chicken breasts

Season with:

  • Salt & pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.

Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.

Add:

  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves minced garlic

Sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.

Add:

  • ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes

Cook for another 1 minute, letting the flavors infuse.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Base

Pour in:

  • ½ cup chicken broth

Bring to a gentle simmer.

Add:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Stir until cheese melts and sauce thickens slightly (2–3 minutes).

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add:

  • Cooked ravioli
  • Sautéed chicken

If using:

  • 2 cups fresh spinach

Stir gently until spinach wilts and everything is coated in sauce.

Simmer for 2–3 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon into bowls or onto plates.

Top with:

  • Extra Parmesan
  • Cracked black pepper
  • Fresh herbs (optional)

Serve hot and enjoy!

Yields:

  • *4 servings

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Date nights
  • Cozy fall meals
  • Entertaining guests

Pair with:

  • Garlic bread or focaccia
  • A crisp green salad
  • A glass of Chardonnay or sparkling water

Presentation Tip: Serve in shallow pasta bowls with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a basil leaf for a restaurant-style finish.

Variations to Try

Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:

Mushroom Ravioli

Use mushroom ravioli and add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce.

Roasted Garlic

Swap fresh garlic for roasted garlic for deeper flavor.

Bacon Boost

Add crispy pancetta or bacon bits for a smoky twist.

Vegetarian Version

Skip the chicken and use veggie broth.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Cook chicken and sauce up to 1 day in advance.
  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth.
  • Freeze: Freeze sauce separately for up to 1 month. Thaw and combine with fresh ravioli.

Tip: Avoid freezing cooked ravioli—they can become mushy when reheated.

Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 4)

  • Calories: ~520
  • Protein: ~28g
  • Carbohydrates: ~30g
  • Fat: ~32g
  • Sugar: ~4g
  • Sodium: ~480mg
  • Fiber: ~2g

This dish is:

  • Rich and creamy
  • Savory and satisfying
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Ravioli is more than just a pasta dish—it’s a comforting, flavor-packed meal that feels gourmet but comes together in minutes. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself, it’s sure to impress.

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