If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, look no further than Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta. This indulgent pasta dish features succulent chicken pieces coated in a creamy, garlicky sauce, enhanced with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. It’s a dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Tuscany with every bite. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it the perfect dinner option for busy nights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients for a truly creamy, flavorful dish:
- 1 lb (16 oz) penne pasta – This pasta shape is perfect for capturing the creamy sauce, but you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like fettuccine or rigatoni if preferred.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – This oil is used to cook the chicken and add a rich flavor to the sauce.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces) – Chicken breasts are tender and cook quickly, making them ideal for this dish.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – Adds a lovely garlic flavor without the need for fresh garlic cloves.
- 1 tsp onion powder – Enhances the savory depth of the dish, complementing the other seasonings.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the chicken and sauce, giving the dish the perfect balance of flavors.
- 3 cups heavy cream – The base for the creamy sauce, providing a smooth and indulgent texture.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a rich, nutty flavor to the sauce, helping to thicken it.
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that brings out the quintessential Italian flavors in the dish.
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped) – These tomatoes provide a tangy and slightly sweet contrast to the rich creaminess of the sauce.
- 2 cups baby spinach leaves – Fresh spinach wilts perfectly into the sauce, adding both flavor and color.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish) – Fresh parsley brightens up the dish and adds a touch of color.
Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 10 minutes, but follow the specific instructions on the package. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning them with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir the chicken occasionally and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it is golden brown and fully cooked through. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, making sure it melts smoothly into the cream. Cook over medium heat while stirring constantly until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce has thickened slightly. This should take around 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Flavor
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the Italian seasoning, sun-dried tomatoes, and baby spinach leaves. Continue to cook the sauce for 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted and softened. The sun-dried tomatoes will infuse the sauce with a deep, savory flavor, and the spinach adds a pop of color and freshness.
Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Pasta
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring it into the sauce. Then, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently until all the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the creamy Tuscan chicken pasta hot, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete dinner experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While penne is a great choice for this recipe, you can use other pasta shapes such as fettuccine, rigatoni, or farfalle. The creamy sauce will coat any type of pasta beautifully.
Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are slightly juicier and can add more flavor to the dish. Just make sure to cook the thighs through before cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce, cook the pasta, and combine everything.
Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter alternative?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy. For the best texture, stick with heavy cream or try a blend of cream and milk.
Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. These will add extra flavor and texture to the dish.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free, as it contains pasta made from wheat. However, you can substitute gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.
Conclusion
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress your guests. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, it brings the flavors of Tuscany straight to your table. It’s a versatile recipe that can easily be customized with different pasta shapes, vegetables, or even protein substitutions. Plus, it’s easy to make in just 30 minutes, making it a go-to for busy evenings.