How to Make Tuscan Chicken Pasta Deliciously Creamy and Flavorful

Are you ready to indulge in a dish that’s not only creamy and flavorful but also incredibly easy to whip up? I’m talking about my favorite Tuscan Chicken Pasta! This delightful recipe is perfect for quick family dinners and will have everyone asking for seconds. With its rich combination of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a cheesy sauce that clings to every bite, it’s a surefire hit for your weeknight dinner ideas. Let’s dive into this easy pasta recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
• Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich and creamy, satisfying even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile enough to adapt for gluten-free diets with the right Gluten Free Brands.
• Packed with flavors that remind you of a cozy Italian dinner.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Tuscan Chicken Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 8 ounces penne pasta, cooked and drained according to package directions
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into ¾ inch pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided (½ teaspoon to season the chicken and ½ teaspoon to season the cream sauce)
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning blend
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup diced yellow onion
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 8.5 ounces julienne sliced sun-dried tomatoes packed in herb oil, oils drained (approximately 1 cup)
• 2 ounces fresh baby spinach, lightly packed (approximately 2 cups)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your creamy garlic pasta:

1. In a large pot, cook the penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the chicken with ½ teaspoon of salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In the same skillet, add the butter, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts, then deglaze the skillet with chicken broth.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened. Add the remaining salt and stir well.
6. Finally, add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Tuscan Chicken Pasta!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Tuscan Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time:

• For a little extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in Italian seasoning for an hour before cooking.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
• Feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free penne pasta and check your chicken broth for gluten-free certification.
• Don’t skip the Parmesan cheese; it adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the sauce!

How to Serve

This Tuscan Chicken Pasta is perfect on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with:

• A side of Creamy Cucumber Salad for a refreshing crunch.
• Garlic bread to soak up that delicious cheesy sauce.
• A light Cucumber Tomato Salad to balance the richness of the pasta.
• For a tangy twist, try a Cucumber Vinegar Salad alongside.

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re planning ahead, this dish can be made in advance! Here’s how to store it:

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

So there you have it! A deliciously creamy and flavorful Tuscan Chicken Pasta that’s perfect for any night of the week. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do. Happy cooking!