Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Tuscan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brings together the rich flavors of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta. This dish captures the spirit of the Italian countryside right in your kitchen: cozy, flavor-packed, and surprisingly simple to whip up on a weeknight. Enjoy pops of color from spinach, hints of garlic, and luscious parmesan, all mingling in a silky sauce that hugs every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Tuscan Chicken Pasta is truly in its simple yet vibrant ingredients. Every single item adds a unique flair—whether it’s the hearty sun-dried tomatoes lending an earthy sweetness or the creamy parmesan transforming the sauce into something special.

• 8 ounces penne pasta: Choose quality pasta for a toothsome bite; it’s the base that soaks up all the sauce.
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-size cubes for quicker cooking and ultimate tenderness.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Divided for seasoned flavor in both chicken and sauce—don’t skip this step!
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning blend: A must for that classic herby kick reminiscent of Tuscany.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and depth to the dish.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps achieve golden-brown chicken and adds a fruity undertone.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Gives the sauce unrivaled richness—unsalted means you control the flavor.
• ½ cup diced yellow onion: Sautéed until sweet and soft, onion forms the aromatic backbone of the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic: Don’t skimp; fresh garlic adds a bold savory layer.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the color and provides a tangy lift to the sauce.
• 8.5 ounces julienne sliced sun-dried tomatoes (in herb oil, drained): Their chewy texture and unique flavor make every forkful sing.
• 2 ounces fresh baby spinach (about 2 cups): Wilted spinach adds luscious greens, color, and a healthful touch.
• ½ cup chicken broth: Used to deglaze and pull all the savory bits into the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream: For that unmistakable luscious, creamy texture.
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese: Melts beautifully into the sauce for a bold, cheesy finish.

How to Make Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the penne until just al dente, according to package directions. This ensures your pasta holds onto that ultra-creamy sauce later on. Once cooked, drain well and set aside, but don’t rinse—the little bit of starch left helps the sauce cling beautifully!

Step 2: Season the Chicken

While your pasta bubbles away, toss the chicken pieces with half of the salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Give everything a thorough mix so every bite of chicken in your Tuscan Chicken Pasta bursts with savory flavor.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 7 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until each piece is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the succulent pieces to a plate and keep them warm—they’ll join the dish again soon!

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics & Tomatoes

Turn down the heat to medium, then melt the butter right in the same skillet. Add diced onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, and the sun-dried tomatoes. Stir frequently and let everything cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the onions are translucent and the tomato paste is fragrant and deep in color.

Step 5: Cook the Spinach

Add the baby spinach to your skillet, folding it gently into the mix. Sauté for another 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and develops a gorgeous dark green hue, blending right into the medley of flavors.

Step 6: Deglaze with Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of your skillet with a wooden spoon to lift any golden, flavorful bits left behind by the chicken and vegetables. This step adds incredible depth to the sauce.

Step 7: Stir in the Cream

Reduce the heat to low and slowly stream in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Allow it to bubble gently and thicken for about 3 to 5 minutes—the sauce should become rich and glossy, perfect for coating your pasta soon.

Step 8: Bring It All Together

Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, turn off the heat and return the pasta and cooked chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle over the grated parmesan cheese, then stir to coat everything evenly in that dreamy, cheesy sauce. Your Tuscan Chicken Pasta is ready to be devoured!

How to Serve Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

For a true Italian touch, garnish with extra shavings of parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper, and maybe a few vibrant basil leaves. These finishing touches enhance both the flavor and look of your Tuscan Chicken Pasta, making every plate irresistible.

Side Dishes

A slice of crusty garlic bread is practically a requirement—perfect for mopping up every bit of that incredible sauce. Pairing Tuscan Chicken Pasta with a light arugula or mixed greens salad brings freshness to balance the dish’s richness. Roasted vegetables, like zucchini or asparagus, also make fantastic partners.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress your dinner guests by twirling the pasta into individual nests on each plate, then topping with juicy chicken, a drizzle of sauce, and a scattering of sun-dried tomatoes. For a family-style approach, serve Tuscan Chicken Pasta in a large rustic bowl at the center of the table. Want to go all out? Serve it in edible parmesan bowls for a fancy twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have some Tuscan Chicken Pasta left over, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen as it sits, making for an equally delicious second helping!

Freezing

While the creamy sauce is best savored fresh, you can freeze Tuscan Chicken Pasta for up to one month. Let the pasta cool completely before storing in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Gently reheat your pasta on the stove over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of milk or extra cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Stir frequently and heat until everything is warmed through—just take care not to overcook the chicken.

FAQs

What kind of pasta works best for Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

Penne is ideal because its tubes catch the creamy sauce, but rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine all work beautifully if you want to switch things up.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more richness and stay juicy, so feel free to substitute if you prefer their flavor and texture in your Tuscan Chicken Pasta.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can swap traditional pasta for your favorite gluten-free brand; just keep a close eye while boiling since gluten-free pasta can overcook quickly.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter version, try half and half or whole milk, though the sauce will be a bit less rich. For dairy-free, use unsweetened coconut cream or your preferred plant-based option.

How spicy is this dish?

Tuscan Chicken Pasta is flavorful but not spicy; if you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the garlic and onion step.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about a big skillet of Tuscan Chicken Pasta on the table—it’s inviting, deeply comforting, and filled with flavors that transport you straight to Italy. Give it a try and let this dish become an instant classic in your home kitchen!

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