This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a bowl of pure comfort! Tender chicken, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes swim in a rich, creamy sauce that’s just waiting to hug your taste buds.
You know it’s a good day when dinner smells this amazing! I love how easy it is to whip up for friends or a cozy night in. Pair it with some crusty bread for a tasty treat! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rigatoni or penne works great here, but feel free to use any other pasta shape you love! Fusilli or fettuccine are good options too if you want something different.
Chicken: I recommend using chicken breasts for their tenderness, but thighs can also work well. They offer a bit more flavor and are less likely to dry out. If you’re looking for a quicker option, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver!
Heavy Cream: This gives your sauce that rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try half-and-half or a combination of Greek yogurt mixed with a little milk. Just remember it won’t be as thick.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These bring a robust flavor. If you don’t have them or want to skip them, feel free! Fresh tomatoes can also be used; just adjust cooking time. I love to add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a zip instead!
How Do I Make the Creamy Sauce Just Right?
Creating the creamy sauce is where the magic happens! Here’s how to get that perfect consistency:
- After sautéing garlic, make sure to regularly stir as you add the broth and cream. This helps everything blend nicely.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, not a boil, to prevent the cream from curdling.
- Add the cheese gradually, stirring until melted, which gives the sauce extra creaminess.
- If the sauce seems too thin, let it simmer a bit longer. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Enjoy making this dish! It’s a favorite around my table for its comforting flavors and satisfying textures.
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Chicken:
- 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Vegetables & Flavor:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as basil, oregano, thyme)
Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This wonderful meal will take about 30 minutes to prepare, including cooking the pasta, sautéing the chicken, and making that creamy sauce. It’s a quick, satisfying dish you can whip up on a busy weekday or impress your friends during a cozy dinner night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until just al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. It’ll be ready for when you mix everything later!
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook until they are golden brown and cooked all the way through—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, take the chicken out and set it aside.
3. Add Garlic and Tomatoes:
In the same skillet (no need to wash it!), add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell that delicious garlic aroma. Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes (and sun-dried tomatoes if you’re using them). Cook them for 2-3 minutes until they soften up a bit.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, stirring it all together. Bring it to a gentle simmer, which helps the sauce come together beautifully. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and dried Italian herbs. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens just a bit.
5. Add Spinach and Chicken:
Add the fresh spinach into the sauce, stirring until it wilts down, which will take about 1-2 minutes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it all together so that the chicken is nicely coated in that creamy sauce.
6. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time for the pasta! Add the drained pasta to your skillet and mix everything thoroughly so the pasta is evenly coated with that delicious sauce and all the flavors are combined. Taste it and if it needs a little more salt or pepper, go ahead and adjust!
7. Serve with Love:
Finally, garnish your creamy Tuscan chicken pasta with fresh chopped parsley and some extra grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve it warm and enjoy every creamy, comforting bite!
Enjoy your creamy, delicious Tuscan chicken pasta! 🍝
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mix of Greek yogurt and milk. Just keep in mind that Greek yogurt may make the sauce a bit tangier, so adjust to taste!
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken?
If you’re looking for a meat alternative, rotisserie chicken works great for a quicker meal. You could also use shrimp or tofu for a delicious variation!
Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove. Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
