This Chicken Creamy Tuscan Pasta is a cozy dish with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes in a creamy sauce. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
The best part? It’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy nights. I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—who can resist a little extra yum? 😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using rigatoni or penne for this dish. If you prefer gluten-free options, try using gluten-free pasta. Whole wheat pasta works too for a healthier choice.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a favorite for this recipe. For a quicker meal, shredded rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute. It saves time and still tastes fantastic!
Heavy Cream: Using heavy cream gives a rich texture. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version, or use coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: I love the flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, but if you don’t have them, feel free to use fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a different twist.
Fresh Spinach: Fresh is best for this dish, but you can substitute with kale or even frozen spinach (just make sure to thaw and drain it first).
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Tender?
To keep your chicken tender and juicy, follow these steps:
- Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces for even cooking.
- Season the chicken well before cooking; it adds flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary; this helps the chicken brown without steaming.
- Cook until just done. Overcooking can lead to dryness.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Sauce?
To thicken the creamy sauce perfectly, follow these tips:
- Let the sauce simmer gently after adding heavy cream and broth, this allows it to reduce and thicken.
- Stir in the cheese gradually for a smooth consistency.
- If it’s still not thick enough, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and add it to the sauce, stirring until thickened.
Enjoy cooking this delightful Chicken Creamy Tuscan Pasta—it’s sure to be a hit!
Chicken Creamy Tuscan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced (preferably in oil)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Time Needed:
This tasty meal takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta, while the rest of the time is for sautéing everything to perfection. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the rigatoni or penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour in the olive oil. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are browned and fully cooked. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the finely diced onion and cook until they’re soft, about 3 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This will add great flavor!
4. Add the Vegetables:
Now, toss in the sliced mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes. Continue to cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to soften and blend with the other flavors.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes, which will help it thicken slightly and develop that creamy texture we love.
6. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and mix in the fresh spinach leaves. Allow it to cook for about 2 minutes, or until the spinach wilts down nicely.
7. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce, creating a beautiful creamy consistency. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as you like.
8. Mix in the Pasta:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together gently so the pasta is evenly coated in that luscious creamy sauce.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately for a delightful meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Creamy Tuscan Pasta!
Can I Use Any Type of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While rigatoni and penne work wonders, feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, like fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of cheese. Adding more vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, can also bulk up the dish without extra calories.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare everything up to step 8 ahead of time, then refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream if it’s too thick.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
