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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta


Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Pasta: A Flavorful Weeknight Delight

Indulge in the rich, vibrant flavors of Tuscany with this incredibly easy and utterly delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Pasta recipe. This dish brings together tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and aromatic garlic in a luscious, savory cream sauce, all tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s a culinary journey to the heart of Italy right in your own kitchen, perfect for a comforting family dinner or a special meal that comes together in under an hour.

Forget bland weeknight meals! This Tuscan Chicken and Pasta is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. The combination of herbs, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy texture creates a truly irresistible experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Follow our detailed guide to master this Italian-inspired classic and add a touch of Mediterranean sunshine to your dining table.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

  • Quick & Convenient: Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Bursting with Flavor: The savory chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and fresh spinach are harmoniously blended in a rich, creamy sauce, offering a taste experience that is both bold and comforting.
  • Family-Friendly: A universally appealing dish that even picky eaters will adore, making it a great addition to your regular meal rotation.
  • Versatile & Adaptable: Easily customize with different vegetables, pasta types, or protein sources to suit your preferences and what you have on hand.
  • One-Pan Potential: While not strictly a one-pan dish (as pasta is often boiled separately), the sauce and chicken cook in one pan, simplifying cleanup significantly.
Tuscan Chicken and Pasta with creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach

5 from 1 vote

Tuscan Chicken and Pasta

By: Julia Pacheco
This Tuscan chicken and pasta recipe is a delightful symphony of flavors, delivering a creamy, savory, and incredibly satisfying meal. It’s generously loaded with vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and fresh spinach, all contributing to an authentic and bold Italian-inspired flavor profile that will impress everyone at your table. Enjoy this comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 30 minutes
Total: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
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Ingredients 

  • 1 tbs olive oil
  • 1 lb chicken breast, sliced in half horizontally thin
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning, divided
  • 2 tsp salt, divided
  • 1 tsp pepper
  • 2 tbs butter
  • 2 tbs minced garlic
  • 2 ¼ cup chicken broth, divided
  • 2 tbs tomato paste
  • 1 ¼ cup half and half
  • ⅓ cup sun dried tomatoes
  • ½ lb fettuccini pasta
  • ⅓ cup parmesan cheese
  • 3 cups fresh spinach
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Instructions 

  • Begin by seasoning the chicken breast slices generously on each side with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and 1 teaspoon of salt. This ensures the chicken is flavorful from the start.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large saute pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked completely through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the pan and transfer it to a separate plate. Cut the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces, then cover the plate loosely with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the sauce.
  • Using the same pan (don’t clean it, those browned bits add flavor!), add the butter over medium heat and allow it to melt completely. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, pour in ½ cup of the chicken broth, add the tomato paste, the remaining 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk the mixture thoroughly until well combined. Reduce the heat to low and let it gently simmer for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Now, add the remaining chicken broth, half and half, and sun-dried tomatoes to the pan. Bring this mixture up to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, carefully add the fettuccini pasta directly into the sauce. Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and cooked al dente (check package directions for specific cooking times, usually 8-10 minutes). If the liquid level becomes too low during cooking, add ½ cup of water at a time until the pasta reaches the desired tenderness.
  • Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh spinach. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted down into the sauce. Return the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pan, toss everything together to combine, and serve immediately. Enjoy your creamy Tuscan chicken and pasta!

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Nutrition

Calories: 613kcal | Carbohydrates: 54g | Protein: 41g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 170mg | Sodium: 2113mg | Potassium: 1248mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 2912IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 273mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Tips for the Perfect Tuscan Chicken and Pasta

  • Chicken Preparation: Slicing the chicken breast thin, or butterflying it, ensures it cooks quickly and evenly, remaining juicy and tender. Avoid overcooking to prevent dry chicken.
  • Don’t Skimp on Garlic: Garlic is a cornerstone of Italian flavor. Freshly minced garlic will give you the best aroma and taste.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: For an even richer flavor, use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil and consider adding a tablespoon of the oil to the pan when sautéing the chicken.
  • Pasta Choice: While fettuccine is suggested, feel free to use other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Adjust cooking time according to package instructions.
  • Achieving Creaminess: Half and half provides a lighter creaminess, but for an extra rich sauce, you can substitute it with heavy cream. Ensure the sauce doesn’t boil vigorously once dairy is added to prevent curdling.
  • Seasoning to Taste: Always taste your sauce before adding the pasta and adjust salt and pepper as needed. The flavors will deepen as it simmers.
  • Pasta Water: Reserve some of the starchy pasta water before draining. If your sauce becomes too thick, a splash or two of pasta water can help loosen it and bind it to the pasta beautifully.

Variations & Substitutions to Customize Your Meal

This Tuscan Chicken and Pasta recipe is incredibly versatile. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these ideas to make it your own:

  • Protein Swaps:
    • Chicken Thighs: For a more robust flavor and even juicier meat, substitute chicken breast with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Adjust cooking time as needed.
    • Shrimp: Add cooked shrimp during the last few minutes for a seafood twist.
    • Sausage: Cook crumbled Italian sausage instead of chicken for a bolder, spicier flavor.
    • Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sliced mushrooms (cremini or button work well) or cannellini beans for a satisfying meat-free version.
  • Vegetable Additions:
    • Artichoke Hearts: Quartered artichoke hearts (canned or jarred, drained) add a delightful tang and texture.
    • Roasted Red Peppers: Incorporate chopped roasted red peppers for an extra layer of sweetness and color.
    • Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy depth.
    • Different Greens: Kale or Swiss chard can be used in place of spinach for a slightly bitter note and more chew.
  • Cheese Alternatives:
    • Mozzarella: Stir in some shredded mozzarella at the end for an extra gooey, cheesy sauce.
    • Asiago: A sharper cheese like Asiago can offer a different flavor profile.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle kick.
  • Herb Boost: Fresh basil or oregano can be stirred in at the very end for an aromatic finish.

Serving Suggestions for Tuscan Chicken and Pasta

This creamy Tuscan chicken and pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience with a few simple accompaniments:

  • Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious creamy sauce.
  • Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini roasted with a little olive oil and garlic make an excellent side dish.
  • White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers of this delectable Tuscan Chicken and Pasta, store them properly to enjoy later:

  • Storage: Transfer any leftover pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
  • Reheating: When ready to reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave. The sauce may thicken considerably in the refrigerator, so it’s best to add a splash of chicken broth or milk (1-2 tablespoons at a time) while reheating to bring it back to its creamy consistency. Stir gently until warmed through. Avoid overheating, as this can cause the sauce to separate.
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