Irresistible Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Recipe By:
Daniel Lawson
Updated:

When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For me, it’s creamy Tuscan chicken pasta, a dish that wraps around your taste buds like a warm hug. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta with tender chicken pieces, all smothered in a rich and velvety sauce bursting with flavors of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. The aroma wafts through the kitchen like an Italian serenade, pulling everyone in for a taste.

This creamy Tuscan chicken pasta isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a lively dinner party, this dish has the power to elevate any occasion. Each bite is a delightful dance of creaminess and zest that promises to leave you craving more. So grab your favorite apron—let’s make some magic happen in the kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This creamy Tuscan chicken pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
  • The flavor profile combines savory, creamy, and tangy elements that will tantalize your taste buds
  • Visually stunning with vibrant colors from the ingredients, it’s sure to impress at any dinner table
  • Versatile enough for different occasions, you can serve it as a comforting family meal or a fancy dinner party dish

I remember the first time I made creamy Tuscan chicken pasta for my friends—they were practically fighting over the last bite! The smiles on their faces as they devoured the dish said it all.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; adjust depending on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.

  • Farfalle Pasta: This butterfly-shaped pasta holds onto sauce beautifully; feel free to substitute with your favorite type.

  • Fresh Spinach: Use fresh spinach for vibrant color and nutrients; wilted spinach adds great texture.

  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Look for ones packed in oil for maximum flavor; they add that sweet-tangy punch.

  • Heavy Cream: The cream is essential for that dreamy texture; don’t skimp on this ingredient!

  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese gives the best flavor; sprinkle generously on top before serving.

  • Garlic: Use several cloves of fresh garlic for an aromatic boost; sauté until fragrant.

  • Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs enhances the overall flavor; you can adjust based on personal preference.

  • Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil works great to cook the chicken and add richness.

  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer of flavor throughout the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side.

Cook the Pasta: While the chicken cooks, boil salted water in another pot. Add farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Add Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Once the chicken is done cooking, remove it from the skillet. In the same pan, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes; sauté until fragrant.

Create the Cream Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth; season with Italian seasoning.

Toss Everything Together: Add cooked pasta and fresh spinach into the skillet with sauce. Slice chicken into strips and nestle it back into the pan; gently toss everything together until well combined.

Serve and Enjoy!: Plate up generous portions of creamy Tuscan chicken pasta with extra Parmesan sprinkled on top. Enjoy immediately while it’s hot!

Now that you’ve mastered this delightful dish, go ahead and share it with loved ones! Nothing beats watching them savor each mouthful while reminiscing about Italy—without even leaving your kitchen!

You Must Know

  • This creamy Tuscan chicken pasta is a delightful way to impress guests while being easy enough for a weeknight dinner
  • The rich aromas of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes will fill your kitchen and make you the star of your own culinary show

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first until golden brown, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce simultaneously. This efficient method ensures everything is ready at the same time, resulting in a deliciously cohesive dish.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this creamy Tuscan chicken pasta by swapping chicken for shrimp or adding spinach for extra nutrients. Throw in some crushed red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use medium heat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to revive its creamy texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfect creamy Tuscan chicken pasta, be sure to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese; it melts beautifully
  • Avoid overcooking the pasta; al dente is key for great texture
  • Don’t skip the sun-dried tomatoes; they add a punch of flavor that elevates the dish

Sharing this recipe reminds me of my Aunt Linda’s dinner parties where I first experienced the magic of creamy Tuscan chicken pasta. The laughter and compliments were endless!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make creamy Tuscan chicken pasta ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce and chicken beforehand, then combine with fresh pasta just before serving.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter alternative with still great flavor.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace chicken with mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

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Indulge in the rich flavors of creamy Tuscan chicken pasta, a perfect combination of tender chicken, al dente farfalle, and a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth to any table. With vibrant colors from fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, it’s visually stunning and guaranteed to impress. Ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds!

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 12 oz farfalle pasta
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, cooking until golden brown (6-7 minutes per side). Remove from skillet.
  2. Cook the Pasta: In a separate pot, boil salted water. Add farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Add Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: In the same skillet used for the chicken, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté until fragrant.
  4. Create the Cream Sauce: Pour in heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan until melted; season with Italian seasoning.
  5. Combine Everything: Add cooked pasta and fresh spinach to the skillet with the sauce. Slice chicken into strips and mix everything together gently.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Plate generous portions of creamy Tuscan chicken pasta with extra Parmesan on top.
  • Author: DANIEL LAWSON
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (about 350g)
  • Calories: 670
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 39g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg

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