Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate indulgent comfort food. The creamy sauce is luxuriously rich but balanced by the brightness of sun-dried tomatoes and the freshness of spinach. The chicken is tender and perfectly seasoned, complementing the sauce and pasta. Plus, this dish is easy to make in one pot, saving you time and effort in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself to a hearty meal, this pasta is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
2 cups fresh spinach (or more if desired)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work well)
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional for garnish)
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set aside.

2. Prepare the chicken:

While the pasta is cooking, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest. Once rested, slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

3. Make the creamy sauce:

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

4. Combine the pasta and spinach:

Add the cooked pasta and spinach to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Let the spinach wilt and combine with the sauce, about 2 minutes.
If the sauce gets too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

5. Finish and serve:

Add the sliced chicken to the pasta and toss everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add Mushrooms: For an earthy flavor, add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce along with the spinach.
Use Grilled Chicken: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it before slicing it into strips.
Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat in the creamy sauce.
Swap the Chicken: You can use shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different protein option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for shrimp or tofu.
Dairy-Free Option: Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a plant-based cream and use dairy-free Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, you can swap the sun-dried tomatoes with store-bought pesto for a slightly different flavor profile. This will add a burst of basil flavor to the sauce.

Can I use whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta will add a bit more texture and a nuttier flavor, and it’s a great healthier alternative.

Can I freeze Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

This dish can be frozen, but the creaminess of the sauce may change slightly once thawed. To freeze, store it in an airtight container for up to 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding extra broth if needed.

Can I make this dish without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk. Just keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.

How can I make the sauce richer?

For an even richer sauce, add more Parmesan cheese or a tablespoon of mascarpone cheese to enhance the creaminess.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a decadent, flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken, a creamy, garlicky sauce, and pasta for the ultimate comfort food experience. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes and spinach brings a pop of color and vibrant flavor, while the Parmesan cheese adds depth to the sauce. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight or serving it at a special dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table!