How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta in 30 Minutes

Are you ready to whip up a delicious dinner that will have your family asking for seconds? I know I am! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta. This dish is not only rich and flavorful, but it also comes together in just 30 minutes, making it one of my favorite easy pasta recipes for quick family dinners. With sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a creamy garlic sauce, this pasta is sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich and creamy flavor that satisfies your cravings.
• Packed with protein and veggies, making it a wholesome meal.
• Versatile enough to pair with your favorite salads, like Creamy Cucumber Salad or Cucumber Tomato Salad.
• Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Tuscan Chicken Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper (freshly ground)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained, roughly chopped)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• 8 ounces penne (or macaroni, uncooked)
• 3 cups baby spinach

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this creamy masterpiece:

1. Cook Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven or braiser over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until browned. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and cut it into 1-inch pieces. Set aside.
2. Make Sauce: In the same pot, add the butter and melt it over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Sauté until aromatic, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Cook: Pour in the heavy cream and milk, then add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and uncooked penne. Stir well and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.
4. Finish: Add the chicken back to the pot along with the baby spinach. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, or until the chicken is warmed through and the spinach has wilted.
5. Serve: Serve warm and enjoy your delicious creamy garlic pasta!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly:

• For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in Italian herbs for a few hours before cooking.
• Feel free to substitute the penne with your favorite pasta shape, like macaroni or fettuccine.
• If you want to lighten the dish, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Don’t skip the freshly grated Parmesan cheese; it makes a world of difference in flavor!
• Pair this dish with a refreshing Cucumber Vinegar Salad for a complete meal.

How to Serve

This creamy pasta dish is best served warm, straight from the pot. I love to garnish it with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a light salad, like Cucumber Tomato Salad, to balance the richness of the pasta.

Make Ahead and Storage

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, you can cook the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them when you’re ready to cook the pasta. This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.

So there you have it! A delightful 30-minute meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with your loved ones. Happy cooking!