If you are craving a luxurious, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, then this Creamy Chicken Tuscan Pasta Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Combining tender strips of chicken with vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, fresh baby spinach, and a dreamy Parmesan-infused cream sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, this dish delivers a fantastic balance of flavors and textures. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests. The rich and velvety sauce pairs beautifully with the savory chicken, making every bite utterly irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, each playing a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so special. From the creamy base to the bursts of tangy sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, every component works together perfectly.
- 12 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta: Provides a hearty, satisfying base that holds onto the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle, fruity flavor and helps cook the chicken to golden perfection.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (sliced into strips): Offers lean protein and tender bites that soak up all the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory aroma.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a balanced blend of herbs that adds depth and warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Lends a gentle spicy kick to elevate the dish.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped): Adds a rich, tangy sweetness and beautiful color contrast.
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach: Introduces freshness and a vibrant green hue while wilting into the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The heart of the sauce, lending a luscious and silky texture.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Balances the richness and adds a subtle savory depth.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, providing nutty complexity and a touch of saltiness.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and a mild herbal brightness.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Tuscan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. This is important because the pasta will finish cooking a bit more once combined with the sauce, so you want it firm enough to avoid getting mushy. Drain it well and set aside to keep it ready for when your creamy sauce is waiting.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken strips, then generously season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and cooked through, locking in the juices that keep this dish juicy and flavorful. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside so you can layer the sauce next.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Then toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cooking them together for a minute releases their intense, sweet tanginess which perfectly complements the creamy sauce you’re about to make.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine all those gorgeous flavors together. Bring it to a gentle simmer so the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts fully, creating a wonderfully rich and velvety sauce that will coat the pasta and chicken beautifully.
Step 5: Add Spinach and Combine
Add the fresh baby spinach into the sauce, letting it wilt down until it becomes tender and vibrant green. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then gently toss in the drained pasta. Stir everything to ensure every strand of pasta and every bite of chicken is drenched in that luscious sauce. Let it simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld together nicely.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tuscan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley gives this dish a bright, fresh finish that’s both visually appealing and taste-enhancing. You can also add an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese or a light drizzle of good quality olive oil for an added layer of indulgence. These final touches elevate the dish and make it feel extra special at the table.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette is also a fantastic companion, perfect for sopping up every delicious drop of that creamy Tuscan sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Creamy Chicken Tuscan Pasta Recipe in individual pasta bowls topped with a parmesan crisp or a few sun-dried tomato strips arranged on top. You can also garnish with edible flowers or a swirl of pesto for a colorful and elegant presentation that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The creamy Tuscan pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing the container to maintain the best texture and flavor upon reheating.
Freezing
Freezing Creamy Chicken Tuscan Pasta Recipe can be tricky because the cream-based sauce may separate. If you plan to freeze it, consider slightly undercooking the pasta and freezing the chicken and sauce separately for best results. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat with a little chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving at high temperatures to keep the sauce smooth and the chicken tender. Stir frequently until heated through for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or penne work wonderfully for holding the sauce, you can also try rigatoni, rotini, or even spaghetti based on your preference. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to make sure it stays firm but tender.
Is there a lighter version of this Creamy Chicken Tuscan Pasta Recipe?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce, though it won’t be quite as rich and thick. Using grilled chicken rather than pan-fried can also reduce the fat content and add a smoky flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to this pasta?
Definitely! Sliced mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or even artichoke hearts would be delicious additions. Just sauté them with the garlic or spinach to soften and develop flavor before adding the cream.
How do I make the sauce thicker if it’s too thin?
If your sauce is thinner than you like, let it simmer gently for a few more minutes uncovered to reduce and thicken naturally. Adding a tablespoon of cream cheese can also help enhance thickness and creaminess without changing the flavor too much.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making and savoring this Creamy Chicken Tuscan Pasta Recipe as much as I love sharing it. It’s such a comforting, flavorful meal that never fails to impress whether you’re cooking for family or friends. Give it a try soon—you might just find it becoming an all-time favorite in your dinner rotation!
Print
Creamy Chicken Tuscan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Creamy Chicken Tuscan Pasta combines tender chicken breast, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce tossed with fettuccine or penne pasta. It’s a comforting Italian-American dish perfect for an easy, flavorful weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet straightforward to make.
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 12 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, sliced into strips
Seasonings and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken strips, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1 minute to release their flavors.
- Make Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything to coat evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Simmer and Serve: Let the pasta and chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2 to 3 minutes until heated through. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the sauce while simmering.
- Substitute half-and-half for a lighter creamy sauce.
- Use grilled chicken instead of pan-cooked chicken for added smoky flavor.
