Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s not only comforting but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of flavors in this pasta dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine work well)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Directions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mix to a gentle simmer. Add grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes, stirring until creamy and smooth.
5. Add fresh spinach and let it wilt into the sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to coat it in the sauce.
6. Toss in the cooked pasta, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Serve warm with extra Parmesan on top.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta warm straight from the skillet. You can add some extra grated Parmesan on top and a sprinkle of black pepper for added flavor. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of water or cream to bring back the creaminess.

Tips to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

• Make sure to season the chicken well for better flavor.
• If you like a bit of heat, don’t skip the red pepper flakes!
• For a lighter version, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half.
• Feel free to use leftover grilled chicken if you have it on hand, as it will save you time.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes, whole wheat pasta works well too! Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta fresh before serving for the best texture.

3. Can I freeze Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta?
It’s best not to freeze it because the cream can change texture when thawed. However, you can freeze the sauce separately, then combine it with freshly cooked pasta later.