Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish: Tuscan chicken pasta! This recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, and luscious spinach all tossed in a creamy sauce that just wraps around every bite. Seriously, it’s like a warm hug on a plate! I remember the first time I made it; the aromas wafting through my kitchen had my family eagerly waiting at the table. What I love most is how quick and simple it is to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or even a cozy weekend dinner. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen too!

Ingredients for Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering Tuscan chicken pasta. I promise, these ingredients come together beautifully for a dish that’s bursting with flavor!

8 oz penne pasta
2 chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
1 cup fresh spinach
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Don’t hesitate to adjust the quantities based on your preferences or what you have on hand! This dish is all about making it your own.

How to Prepare Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Now, let’s get cooking! I’ll walk you through each step to make this delicious Tuscan chicken pasta. Don’t worry; it’s easier than you think!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

First things first, you’ll want to cook the penne pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 11-12 minutes, until it’s al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once it’s done, drain the pasta but remember to save a bit of that starchy pasta water!

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Next, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your diced chicken. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. You want that golden color—it adds so much flavor!

Step 3: Add Flavor

Time to amp up the flavor! Add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet with the chicken. Cook everything together for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently. The garlic will become fragrant, and the tomatoes will soften beautifully!

Step 4: Incorporate Spinach

Now, toss in the fresh spinach. Cook for just 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts down. It adds such a vibrant color and is packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s super quick!

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until everything is combined and the cheese melts into that creamy goodness. You might want to add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up if it seems too thick. Trust me, this sauce is heavenly!

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Finally, add your cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. The warmth of the pasta will soak up all that delicious sauce. If it looks a little dry, just add a bit more of that reserved pasta water until it’s perfect. Serve warm and enjoy every creamy bite!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s chat about how to make your Tuscan chicken pasta absolutely irresistible! I’ve got some pro tips that I swear by, and they’ll elevate your dish to the next level.

Adjust the Seasoning: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper! Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your liking. A little pinch here and there can make a world of difference!
Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh basil or parsley on hand, add a sprinkle just before serving. It not only looks beautiful but also enhances the flavor!
Protein Variations: Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or even a meat alternative if you’re looking for something different. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a kick, toss in some red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic. It adds a lovely warmth that complements the creaminess.
Leftovers: This dish reheats well, but if you find it thickens too much, just stir in a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up when warming.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this delightful Tuscan chicken pasta. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk nutrition! Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so it’s not set in stone. However, here’s a general breakdown for one serving of this scrumptious Tuscan chicken pasta:

Calories: 600
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 800mg
Fiber: 3g
Cholesterol: 100mg

Remember, if you’re looking for lighter options or adjustments, there are plenty of ways to customize this dish while keeping it delicious! Enjoy your cooking journey!

FAQ About Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Got questions about making this delicious Tuscan chicken pasta? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some commonly asked questions that might help you navigate your cooking journey.

Can I use different pasta types?

Absolutely! While penne is my go-to for this dish, you can use any pasta you love. Fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti work wonderfully. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as they may vary slightly. For instance, spaghetti usually cooks a couple of minutes faster than penne. Just remember to taste test for that perfect al dente bite!

How can I make this dish lighter?

If you’re looking to trim some calories, there are a few easy swaps you can make! Try using half-and-half or even milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat version. Another trick is to increase the veggie content—more spinach or even some zucchini can keep it hearty while cutting down on calories. Trust me, it’ll still taste amazing!

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to boost flavor and nutrition. Some of my favorites are bell peppers, mushrooms, or even cherry tomatoes. Just sauté them alongside the chicken in Step 2 until they’re tender. You’ll get an extra pop of color and flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Plus, it makes the dish even more satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, this Tuscan chicken pasta is not just another meal; it’s a culinary experience! Here are a few reasons why you’re going to absolutely adore this recipe:

Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a delicious dinner even on the busiest nights!
Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a sauce that’s utterly decadent and comforting.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it with whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand, making it a flexible go-to dish.
One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, which means less cleanup for you—win-win!
Satisfying Texture: The penne pasta holds onto that creamy sauce beautifully, giving you a delightful bite in every forkful.
Family-Friendly: It’s a dish that pleases both kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Trust me, once you make this Tuscan chicken pasta, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your household!

Tuscan Chicken Pasta: 5 Reasons You’ll Crave This Dish

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious Tuscan chicken pasta dish that combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz penne pasta
2 chicken breasts, diced
1 cup spinach
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add diced chicken and cook until browned.
Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for 2 minutes.
Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; stir until combined.
Season with salt and pepper.
Toss cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet.
Serve warm.

Notes

Adjust seasoning to your taste.
For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes.
Use fresh herbs for added flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 600
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: tuscan chicken pasta

Spread the love