Easy Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Easy Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a rich, comforting dish packed with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a velvety Parmesan cream sauce. This restaurant-quality meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy: The Parmesan garlic cream sauce is irresistibly smooth and flavorful.
• Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Packed with flavor: Sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and garlic add a delicious Tuscan-inspired taste.
• Customizable: Swap the protein, add veggies, or make it spicy to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• Pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Baby spinach
• Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the chicken: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. 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 from the skillet and slice into strips.
3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
4. Add the liquids: Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth.
5. Add spinach and chicken: Toss in the baby spinach and stir until wilted. Return the sliced chicken to the skillet.
6. Combine with pasta: Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce.
7. Serve hot: Garnish with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes if desired. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Protein swap: Use shrimp, salmon, or tofu instead of chicken.
• Low-carb version: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Extra veggies: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for more nutrition.
• Spicy kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Lighter option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating:
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. You can thicken it with a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Penne, fettuccine, and rigatoni work best, but any pasta will do.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything except the pasta and store it. Cook fresh pasta before serving.

How do I keep the sauce from getting too thick?

Add a little extra broth or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Yes! Cherry or Roma tomatoes will work, but they’ll have a milder flavor.

What can I serve with Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

A side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables pair well.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Don’t overcook it—sear it until golden and let it rest before slicing.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and check that all ingredients are gluten-free.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Use coconut cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

Conclusion

Easy Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a rich, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether for a quick family dinner or a special occasion, this creamy pasta is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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