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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

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  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

A rich, flavorful creamy pasta dish featuring juicy chicken, a garlicky creamy sauce, and the bold flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.


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)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional for garnish)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Remove and slice into strips.
  3. Make the creamy sauce: In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil. Add garlic, cook for 1-2 minutes, then add sun-dried tomatoes. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and cook until smooth.
  4. Combine pasta and spinach: Add cooked pasta and spinach to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Let spinach wilt, about 2 minutes. If the sauce thickens, add reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time.
  5. Finish and serve: Add the sliced chicken to the pasta, toss, and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh basil and serve with extra Parmesan.

Notes

For a richer sauce, add more Parmesan or mascarpone cheese.Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for extra spice.Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or tofu for variety.Use coconut milk for a dairy-free option and dairy-free Parmesan cheese.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg