This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a cozy dish that’s packed with flavor! It features tender chicken, creamy sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes—everything you love in one bowl!
You’ll find it so quick to make, you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar! I like to serve it with a side salad and some garlic bread, because let’s be real, carbs are life! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rigatoni or penne works well here, but you can also use farfalle or fettuccine. Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer a healthier option.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to for this recipe. You could substitute with thighs for more flavor or even shrimp for a seafood twist!
Sun-dried tomatoes: These add richness and a tang to the dish. If you can’t find oil-packed ones, the dry variety can work—just soak them in warm water for about 15 minutes first.
Heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce creamy. If you want a lighter option, you can try half-and-half or a dairy-free cream substitute. Coconut cream can add an interesting flavor!
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Getting the chicken just right is key for this dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut the chicken into consistent pieces for even cooking.
- Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Cook on medium-high heat to get a nice brown crust. Aim for 5-7 minutes without moving it too much so it browns nicely.
- Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F for best results!
Why Is Sautéing Garlic Important?
Sautéing garlic brings out its natural sweetness and flavor. However, be careful not to burn it:
- Add minced garlic to a hot skillet with a little oil, cooking for only about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Burnt garlic turns bitter, so once you smell it, it’s time to add the next ingredient!
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into strips or bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (preferably the oil-packed kind), chopped
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy Tuscan chicken pasta recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll need roughly 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rigatoni or penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Making the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
4. Adding Cream and Spinach:
Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and some salt and pepper to taste. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well and let the sauce thicken for a few minutes.
5. Combining Everything:
Add the fresh spinach to the sauce, cooking until it’s wilted. Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to combine everything. Finally, add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it all together so the pasta is nicely coated with the creamy sauce.
6. Serving:
Garnish your creamy Tuscan chicken pasta with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if you desire. Serve warm and enjoy every delicious bite!
Happy cooking! Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Tuscan chicken pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni or penne is recommended, you can substitute with any pasta type you prefer, such as fettuccine, farfalle, or even gluten-free options like chickpea or brown rice pasta.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. You can also substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy Tuscan chicken pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time! Cook the chicken and sauce, then store them separately. When ready to serve, just reheat the sauce and chicken and mix in the freshly cooked pasta for the best texture.
