Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe to Savor

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that transports your taste buds straight to the sun-kissed hills of Tuscany. This recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that is simply irresistible. The origins of this dish can be traced back to the rustic kitchens of Italy, where fresh ingredients and bold flavors reign supreme. It’s no wonder that creamy Tuscan chicken pasta has become a favorite among home cooks and food enthusiasts alike. The harmonious blend of flavors and textures makes it a comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, allowing you to whip up a gourmet experience in no time. Join me as we dive into this delectable recipe that is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or pasta of your choice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup (150 g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups (60 g) fresh spinach
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) chicken broth (optional, for thinning sauce)
• Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Pasta

1. **Boil Water**: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt to enhance the flavor of the pasta. 2. **Cook the Pasta**: Once the water is boiling, add the fettuccine (or your chosen pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 3. **Drain and Set Aside**: Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. I like to drizzle a little olive oil over it to keep it from sticking together while I prepare the sauce.

Preparing the Chicken

4. **Season the Chicken**: While the pasta is cooking, take your chicken breasts and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This will give the chicken a lovely flavor. 5. **Heat the Oil**: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. I usually let it heat for about a minute until it shimmers. 6. **Cook the Chicken**: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). 7. **Remove and Slice**: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it into strips or bite-sized pieces. I find that letting it rest helps keep the juices in.

Making the Creamy Sauce

8. **Sauté Garlic**: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. 9. **Add Cream**: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic. I love the richness that heavy cream brings to this dish. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. 10. **Incorporate Cheese**: Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. 11. **Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach**: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach wilts down. The colors in this dish are just beautiful!

Combining Everything

12. **Add Chicken to Sauce**: Once the spinach has wilted, add the sliced chicken back into the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in the creamy sauce. 13. **Combine with Pasta**: Now, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. If it seems too dry, add a bit more chicken broth or a splash of pasta water. 14. **Taste and Adjust**: At this point, I like to taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A little extra salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavors.

Serving the Dish

15. **Plate the Pasta**: Serve the creamy Tuscan chicken pasta in bowls or on plates. I like to twirl the pasta for a nice presentation. 16. **Garnish**: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for a pop of color and flavor. You can also add more grated Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent. 17. **Enjoy**: Dig in and enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness of this Tuscan chicken pasta! It’s

Conclusion:

In summary, this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich, creamy sauce creates a symphony of tastes that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings when you still want to impress your family or guests. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this delightful pasta with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine to complement the creamy sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the recipe by adding in your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, or even swapping out the chicken for shrimp or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this incredible dish together! Happy cooking! Print