Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish that feels like an Italian restaurant classic, yet is simple enough to whip up at home.

Tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach are enveloped in a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta.

Topped with fresh basil and grated Parmesan, it’s a meal that’s as comforting as it is indulgent.

Ingredients

These fresh, hearty ingredients come together to create a creamy pasta dish bursting with Tuscan-inspired flavors:

For the chicken:

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika

For the sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced (packed in oil, drained)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
• 3 cups fresh spinach

For the pasta:

• 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine (or pasta of your choice)

For garnish:

• Fresh basil leaves
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions

Follow these steps for a creamy, irresistible bowl of Tuscan Chicken Pasta:

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. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
   • Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Stir in the sliced sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
   • Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red chili flakes. Let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
4. Add Spinach and Chicken:
   Stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt in the sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy mixture.
5. Combine with Pasta:
   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves, additional Parmesan cheese, and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tweaks and Additions

Put your own spin on this classic with these simple variations:

• Protein Options
  Swap the chicken for shrimp or leave it out for a vegetarian version.
• Cheese Lovers
  Add shredded mozzarella for an even cheesier sauce.
• Veggie Twist
  Include mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or artichoke hearts for added texture.
• Lighter Option
  Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Gluten-Free
  Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-friendly.

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is perfect for date nights, family dinners, or whenever you’re craving something comforting and delicious.

The creamy sauce, savory chicken, and bright pops of sun-dried tomato make every bite unforgettable. Let me know how it turns out—happy cooking!