Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe – Easy & Delicious

Introduction

If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to make at home, this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is the perfect recipe! Packed with rich flavors, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh spinach, this dish brings a comforting and gourmet experience to your dinner table. Best of all, it’s a one-pan meal that comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Whether you’re a fan of Italian-inspired dishes or just love creamy pasta, this recipe will satisfy your cravings. In this guide, we’ll take you through every step of making the ultimate Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, including ingredient substitutions, pro tips, and variations to fit different dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup with minimal dishes.
• Rich & Creamy Sauce: Made with heavy cream, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Tastes just as good the next day!
• Customizable: Swap ingredients to fit your dietary needs.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced thinly)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Pasta & Sauce:

• 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

• Season the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
• Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.

2. Cook the Pasta

• In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
• Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

3. Prepare the Sauce

• In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
• Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
• Add red pepper flakes and oregano, then bring to a gentle simmer.
• Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until melted.

4. Combine Everything

• Add the spinach and cherry tomatoes to the sauce, cooking until wilted.
• Slice the cooked chicken and add it back to the skillet.
• Toss in the cooked pasta, stirring to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
• If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

5. Serve & Enjoy

• Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
• Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.

this PIN FOR LATER

Pro Tips for the Best Tuscan Chicken Pasta

• Use Fresh Parmesan: It melts better and adds authentic flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep it al dente for the best texture.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Add more red pepper flakes if you love heat.
• Make It Lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk.
• Use Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil: They have more flavor than dry-packed ones.

Variations to Try

1. Low-Carb/Keto Tuscan Chicken Pasta

• Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Use a low-carb thickener instead of flour.

2. Dairy-Free Option

• Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream.
• Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

3. Vegetarian Tuscan Pasta

• Replace chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas.
• Add extra veggies like zucchini or bell peppers.

4. Shrimp Tuscan Pasta

• Swap chicken for shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side.
• Add shrimp at the end to prevent overcooking.

Best Side Dishes & Pairings

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A light and refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Adds extra nutrients and flavor.
• White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the dish well.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth.

2. Can I Freeze Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove, stirring frequently.

3. What’s the Best Pasta for This Recipe?

Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni work best for holding onto the sauce.

4. How Do I Keep the Sauce from Getting Too Thick?

Add reserved pasta water or a bit of chicken broth while reheating.

5. Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works well.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, blending rich flavors with creamy textures and fresh ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress. Try it today and bring the flavors of Italy straight to your kitchen!

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