This creamy Tuscan chicken pasta is all about comfort! It features juicy chicken, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes tossed in a rich and flavorful sauce.
You can’t help but love how quick it is to make. Just cook everything in one pot and you’re ready to enjoy a tasty meal that feels fancy but is super easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a nice flavor to the dish. If you’re low on olive oil, vegetable oil or avocado oil work too. I like to keep a good quality olive oil on hand for its taste.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here. You could also use thighs for a juicier texture, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These give a punch of flavor. If you can’t find them or want something fresher, cherry tomatoes roasted in olive oil work well. Just dice them up!
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce creamy. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half or a plant-based cream. But do keep in mind it may alter the taste.
Pasta: Using rigatoni or penne is great since the sauce clings to the shapes. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free pasta; it can be just as tasty!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken for This Dish?
Cooking the chicken perfectly ensures a tender result. Here’s how you can guarantee juicy chicken:
- Start with pieces of similar size. This helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; this can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if needed.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking for a few minutes before adding it back to the sauce so it stays juicy.
By following these steps, you’ll have delicious chicken ready to mix into your creamy pasta dish!
How to Ensure Perfectly Wilted Spinach?
Adding spinach at the right time is key for great flavor and texture:
- Add the spinach last, after the sauce has thickened. This keeps it vibrant and fresh.
- Cook just until wilted, which is about 1-2 minutes. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, and you want that bright green look!
This simple step makes your dish not only look appealing but also retain the nutrients in the spinach!
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 ounces rigatoni or penne pasta
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy Tuscan chicken pasta takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the chicken, followed by another 15-20 minutes making the sauce and combining everything. It’s a quick dinner that feels indulgent!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the 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 the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it turns translucent. This step brings out the sweetness of the onion. Next, add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Allow the sauce to cook and thicken slightly for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add Spinach and Combine:
Add the fresh spinach leaves to the sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes until they are wilted and bright green. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything to combine well.
6. Final Touches:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together so the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer your creamy Tuscan chicken pasta to serving plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy your delicious meal!
This comforting dish is not just easy to make, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your family or friends. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option for a healthier choice. Just be aware that it may take a minute longer to cook compared to regular pasta, so check the package for cooking times.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream, like coconut cream or cashew cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for added flavor without the dairy. This keeps the dish creamy and delicious!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
If sun-dried tomatoes aren’t available, you can use fresh cherry tomatoes instead. Simply roast or sauté them until softened and add them to the dish. You could also use canned diced tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
How Can 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 stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
