This Chicken Creamy Tuscan Pasta is a warm and tasty dish that combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes all in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
I love how quickly it comes together! Just cook the chicken, add the pasta, and stir in the creamy goodness. Perfect for a cozy dinner when you’re craving something comforting! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: You can use rigatoni or fettuccine, but other short pasta like penne or shells can work too. If you’re gluten-free, try brown rice pasta or any gluten-free alternative.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is great, but you can also use thighs for more flavor. You can even substitute with cooked shrimp or a plant-based protein like tofu.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes bring more flavor. If you don’t have them, you can use fresh or roasted tomatoes, but the flavor will be lighter.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness, but you can substitute with half-and-half, or for a lighter version, use milk mixed with cornstarch to thicken. For dairy-free options, almond or coconut cream works well too.
How Do You Ensure the Perfectly Creamy Sauce?
Getting that creamy texture is key in this dish! Start by simmering the heavy cream and chicken broth until slightly thickened. Here’s how to do it:
- Add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring for even mixing.
- Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, which helps it to thicken.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese gradually. This will melt and create a creamy consistency.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or pasta water to reach your desired creaminess.
Don’t rush this step! The slow simmering is what transforms your sauce into a silky delight. Enjoy! 🌟
How to Make Chicken Creamy Tuscan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz rigatoni or fettuccine pasta
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced (preferably oil-packed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Creamy Tuscan Pasta recipe takes around 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the chicken, followed by 20 minutes to make the sauce and combine everything. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Once the water is boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sautéing the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and is cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to keep warm.
3. Preparing the Flavor Base:
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant.
4. Adding Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Mix in the sliced sun-dried tomatoes, cooking them for about 1-2 minutes to release their flavor and marry with the onion and garlic.
5. Making the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring thoroughly to combine. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, which will help the sauce thicken.
6. Mixing In the Cheese and Seasonings:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like some heat). Stir this all together until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens a bit, taking around 3-4 minutes.
7. Bringing it All Together:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then toss in the fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilted and everything is well combined and coated in the creamy sauce.
8. Combining the Pasta:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
9. Final Touches:
Give everything a taste, then adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Lastly, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Chicken Creamy Tuscan Pasta immediately while it’s warm and creamy. Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful dish!
Bon appétit! 🍽️
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta works well in this recipe and adds a nuttier flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as whole wheat pasta may take a bit longer to become al dente.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cornstarch to thicken the sauce. For a dairy-free alternative, opt for coconut cream or cashew cream, which can also add a nice flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce. Avoid reheating in the microwave alone, as it can become dry.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté them alongside the onions to ensure they’re cooked through and flavorful.
