Contents
- 1 Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe: The Ultimate One-Pan Dinner!
- 2 Comforting Chicken Lentil Soup Recipe
- 3 Crockpot Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce | Easy and Healthy Dinner
- 4 15 One-Pot Chicken Recipes for Busy Weeknights
- 5 The Best Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe: The Ultimate One-Pan Dinner!
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is hands down one of the most indulgent and satisfying meals you can prepare. This dish, inspired by the traditional flavors of Tuscany, is loaded with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a rich cream sauce—all tossed with pasta for a heavenly one-pot meal.
Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just getting started, this recipe is approachable, delicious, and perfect for every occasion.
Before we dig into the details, make sure you have all the tools and ingredients required to make this luscious meal. Grab what you need from your pantry or check out Amazon’s selection of kitchen essentials—whether it’s a sturdy skillet or premium sun-dried tomatoes, it’s all just a click away.
For those committed to a healthy lifestyle, we recommend checking out this Fat-Burning Cookbook, filled with delicious recipes that are both indulgent and waistline-friendly. Now, let’s explore how to create this Tuscan masterpiece!
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The Essence of Tuscan Cuisine
Tuscan cooking is all about simplicity and quality. Known as “Cucina Povera” or “poor kitchen,” it relies on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and timeless techniques.
Here are the staples that define Tuscan flavors and elevate dishes like Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta:
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Intensely sweet and tangy, they’re tiny flavor bombs in any recipe.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A must-have for its grassy aroma and pure, unprocessed richness.
- Creamy Bases – Butter, cream, and cheeses like Parmesan are frequently used to create luscious, hearty sauces.
- Herbs – Fresh basil, parsley, and oregano tie everything together with their fragrant, earthy notes.
Using these ingredients, you’ll be creating a dish packed with flavor and tradition.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy, dreamy pasta dish:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thinly
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite)
- 1 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- Salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs to taste
- Fresh basil (optional for garnish)
Equipment
- A large skillet or sauté pan
- A pot for boiling pasta
- Tongs for tossing the ingredients
- A sharp knife for preparing your chicken and vegetables
If you need any of the equipment above, be sure to explore kitchen tools on Amazon to find high-quality, affordable products.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then cook your pasta until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water for the sauce.
- Sear the Chicken
Season chicken slices with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce
Melt butter in the same skillet. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring constantly. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Add Parmesan and Veggies
Gradually mix in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, letting the spinach wilt, and allow the flavors to meld.
- Bring it Together
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything well, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if you’d like a thinner sauce.
- Serve and Garnish
Garnish with fresh basil and more Parmesan. Serve piping hot, and enjoy!
Dietary Variations
- Vegan Version – Swap the chicken for plant-based protein, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and opt for nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use your favorite gluten-free pasta variety.
Read more: Slow Cooker Pot Roast
Tips for Perfecting the Dish
- Chicken Perfection – Ensure the chicken breasts are thinly sliced to cook evenly. Avoid overcooking for juicy, tender bites.
- Creaminess Level – Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded for a smoother sauce. Adjust the consistency by adding pasta water slowly until you achieve your desired creaminess.
- Flavor Boosters – Add a splash of white wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Pairing Suggestions
Tuscan fare pairs flawlessly with wines and simple side dishes.
- Wine Pairing – A crisp Pinot Grigio or a rich Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Side Dishes – Serve with a fresh garden salad, crusty garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.
Health and Nutritional Insights
This indulgent dish doesn’t have to derail your healthy eating goals. Here are some benefits of the star ingredients:
- Chicken – High in protein, which contributes to muscle repair and satiety.
- Spinach – Packed with iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants, it boosts the dish’s nutritional profile.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Rich in vitamins A and C, they offer immune support and skin health benefits.
You can easily adjust portion sizes to align with your dietary goals or enjoy it as a weekend treat!
Bring Tuscany to Your Table
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is the perfect recipe for a cozy family meal, an impressive dinner party dish, or a night in with a glass of wine. The recipe is simple, the ingredients are accessible, and the flavors are unforgettable.
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Hello, my name is Mary. I’m a passionate food and drink enthusiast, sharing flavorful recipes, creative drinks, and culinary inspiration from around the world. With a love for exploring new tastes and traditions, I bring a mix of easy-to-follow guides and expert tips to make every meal an adventure. Follow along for delicious discoveries and a toast to positive living!