Easy Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta: A Delightful Italian-Inspired Dish

This dish combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach in a rich, creamy sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that brings a taste of Tuscany to your dinner table.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine work well)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Cook the pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the chicken

While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the dried Italian herbs.

Step 3: Cook the chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.

Step 5: Create the creamy base

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Add cheese and seasonings

Stir in the Parmesan cheese, remaining Italian herbs, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Step 7: Combine ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the fresh spinach. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Step 8:Toss with pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.

Step 9:Serve

Divide the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta among plates and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

1. Al Dente Pasta: Cook your pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the hot sauce.
2. Chicken Doneness: Be careful not to overcook the chicken. It should be golden brown on the outside and just cooked through on the inside to remain juicy.
3. Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a little pasta water or additional chicken broth.
4. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
5. Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, though the sauce won’t be as rich.

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a versatile dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of tender chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a creamy Parmesan sauce creates a balanced and satisfying meal. The best part? It comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a practical choice for those who want a delicious homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this Italian-inspired dish is sure to impress. Pair it with a crisp and a side salad for a complete meal that transports you to the rolling hills of Tuscany. Buon appetito!