Name: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta: A Delicious Family Favorite
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
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 and 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

Imagine indulging in a dish that’s both comforting and luxurious—enter Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta. This delightful recipe merges tender chicken with a rich, velvety sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Italian herbs. Moreover, the creamy goodness makes each bite a savory experience that’s hard to resist.

Not only is this pasta dish quick to prepare, but it also brings a taste of Italy straight to your dining table. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, its enchanting flavors are sure to impress and satisfy everyone. Dive into this culinary treat and discover why Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta has become a beloved favorite!

Ingredients for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta:

To prepare a delightful Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

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

This combination of ingredients creates a creamy, savory dish filled with flavor. For an additional tasty option, consider trying my Easy Creamy Chicken Dish: The Ultimate Comfort Food. It showcases how versatile chicken can be while maintaining both comfort and satisfaction in your meals. Enjoy making your creamy Tuscan chicken pasta with these wonderful components!

How to prepare Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta:

Start by seasoning 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and let it rest.

In the same skillet, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in 1 cup of roughly chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute. Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 cups of milk, stirring well. Gradually mix in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

Meanwhile, cook 8 ounces of penne or macaroni according to package instructions. Once drained, add it to the sauce along with 3 cups of baby spinach. Finally, slice the chicken and nestle it into the creamy sauce. For more delicious chicken recipes, check out this easy creamy chicken dish that’s also a comfort food favorite!

Tips for Perfecting Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta:

To elevate your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, focus on the quality and freshness of your ingredients. Start with fresh, high-quality chicken breast. Searing it until golden enhances the overall flavor. Adding sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach not only enriches the dish visually, but their flavors meld beautifully during cooking. Use a creamy sauce base like heavy cream combined with Parmesan cheese for that irresistible richness.

Don’t rush the cooking process; allow your pasta to absorb some sauce for an al dente texture. For more poultry inspiration, check out my post on an easy creamy chicken dish, which highlights various techniques for succulent chicken. To balance the richness, a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brings brightness to the dish. For a complete guide on how to make this delightful pasta, explore the full recipe here. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta:

For a delightful meal, consider serving your creamy Tuscan chicken pasta with a refreshing garden pasta salad. This salad complements the rich flavors of the pasta while offering a crunchy and fresh contrast. Additionally, pair the dish with a side of garlic bread to soak up any leftover creamy sauce, making it a complete dining experience.

If you’re in the mood for something cozy, serve this chicken pasta with a bowl of creamy mushroom pearl couscous soup. The earthiness of the mushrooms beautifully pairs with the creamy sauce, enhancing your meal’s flavor profile. For those looking to lighten things up, a simple mixed greens salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing bite to balance the richness of pasta.

No matter your choice, these suggestions will elevate your creamy Tuscan chicken pasta into an unforgettable dining experience!

Variations and Customizations:

When preparing your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, the possibilities for variations and customizations are endless. You can easily swap out ingredients based on personal preference. For instance, replace the chicken with shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist. Alternatively, consider adding vibrant vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even mushrooms for an extra burst of flavor. If you are looking to accommodate dietary restrictions, try using gluten-free pasta or a dairy-free cream alternative.

Additionally, for a richer flavor profile, incorporate spices such as Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes. You might even want to enhance the dish further with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

If you’re seeking more creamy pastas, check out this delightful and comforting recipe for Easy Creamy Chicken Dish. These variations not only add a personal touch but also keep your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta exciting each time you make it!

Storage tips for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta:

To store your delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This dish can be refrigerated for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat it on the stove or microwave. For a delightful twist, consider pairing it with Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Sauce for added flavor!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What ingredients are needed for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

To make a delightful Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, you’ll need boneless chicken breasts, pasta of your choice like fettuccine, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, heavy cream, garlic, and Italian seasoning. These ingredients come together to create a rich, satisfying dish that is both comforting and elegant.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The preparation time for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is relatively quick. Typically, it takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners. The simplicity of the recipe allows you to whip up a gourmet meal in no time.

Can I substitute the chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use shrimp or even make a vegetarian version by replacing the chicken with mushrooms or plant-based protein. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.

Is there a healthy way to make this pasta dish?

To create a healthier version of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, consider replacing heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a cauliflower puree for creaminess. Additionally, opting for whole-grain pasta can boost fiber intake while lowering calories.

What can I serve with Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

Pair this dish with a fresh garden salad or crusty garlic bread to complement the rich flavors. Alternatively, you could try a side of steamed broccoli for a nutritious balance, just like in our Mediterranean Chicken Skillet that showcases how a fresh side can elevate your meal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta ahead of time. Simply cook the components, combine them, and store in an airtight container. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove. However, it’s advisable to add fresh spinach just before serving for optimal brightness.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta: A Delicious Family Favorite

Total Time: 50
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish combining tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce over pasta. Perfect for a comforting dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

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 and 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

Instructions

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning.
Pour in heavy cream and milk, bringing to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
Add uncooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet, mixing well.
Cook until the pasta is al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Stir in baby spinach until wilted.
Serve warm and enjoy!