Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Description:
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish featuring seared chicken breasts nestled in a creamy Parmesan and garlic sauce, packed with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. It’s a comforting Italian-style meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for guests.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced horizontally to make 4 fillets)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce & Pasta:
250g (9 oz) penne or fettuccine pasta
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), drained and chopped
2 cups baby spinach
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried basil (or fresh if available)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes for heatInstructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Season and Cook the Chicken
Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions and garlic for 2 minutes.
Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook another minute.
Pour in chicken broth and let simmer for 2 minutes.
Add cream, Parmesan, and basil. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
4. Add Spinach
Add spinach and cook until wilted (1–2 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes.
5. Combine
Slice chicken into strips and return to the pan.
Toss in cooked pasta. Mix until everything is coated with the creamy sauce.
6. Serve
Serve hot with extra Parmesan and basil on top.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate):
Nutrient Amount
Calories 620 kcal
Protein 38 g
Carbohydrates 45 g
Sugars 5 g
Fat 34 g
Saturated Fat 15 g
Fiber 3 g
Sodium 500 mg
Note: Use low-fat cream to reduce calories.
Common Questions & Answers:
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth.
Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken if needed.
Q: What other veggies can I add?
A: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini go well with the Tuscan flavors.
Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
A: It can be frozen, but the cream sauce may separate slightly when reheated.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes! Just substitute with gluten-fre
e pasta.