Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a decadent and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, a rich cream sauce, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and garlic. The sauce is velvety and infused with Italian herbs, making every bite a satisfying experience. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings the tastes of Italy to your table in under 30 minutes.

ingredients

• (Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
• boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• olive oil
• garlic (minced)
• sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• spinach (fresh or frozen)
• heavy cream
• chicken broth
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Italian seasoning
• salt and pepper
• penne pasta (or pasta of choice)

directions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, mixing it into the creamy sauce.
8. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Use grilled chicken for a smoky touch.
• Swap the spinach for kale or arugula for a different green.
• Substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine or spaghetti.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the pasta is best served fresh, you can make the creamy sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Cook the pasta and chicken when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish.

Can I use a different protein?
You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or even Italian sausage for a twist.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, a luscious cream sauce, and a blend of savory ingredients, it’s a meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or impressing guests, this pasta dish is sure to be a hit!

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