Get ready to enjoy the delicious flavors of Tuscany with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta. This dish features tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s a perfect meal for a cozy dinner at home or when you want to impress your guests.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is inspired by Tuscan cuisine, which is part of Italian cuisine. It incorporates flavors and ingredients commonly found in the Tuscany region of Italy, such as sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta: A Flavor-Packed Delight with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach

Recipe by abdinhalaCourse: Dinner, Main courseCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4-6

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

650

kcal

Tuscan Chicken Pasta sounds delightful! It’s a rich and creamy dish inspired by the flavors of Tuscany.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup spinach leaves
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 pound pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
Fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the pasta: Heat a big pot of salted water till it boils. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a big skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. After taking the chicken out of the skillet, let it rest.
Prepare the sauce: Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and cook it for approximately one minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Stir to mix in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until it begins to thicken.
Add the veggies and cheese: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach leaves, allowing them to cook down for a couple of minutes. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine everything: Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips. Add the cooked pasta and chicken slices back into the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly with the creamy sauce.
Serve: Divide the pasta among plates and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious Tuscan Chicken Pasta!

nutrition information about creamy Tuscan chicken pasta

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: ~650-750 kcal

Protein: ~30-35 grams

Carbohydrates: ~50-60 grams

Saturated Fat: ~15-20 grams

Fat: ~30-35 grams

Cholesterol: ~150-200 mg

Sodium: ~800-1000 mg

Fiber: ~3-5 grams

Sugars: ~3-5 grams

This nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. If you have any dietary restrictions or specific nutritional goals, you may want to consult a nutritionist for personalized advice.

Variations of creamy Tuscan chicken pasta

Mushroom Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Add sliced mushrooms (cremini or button) to the skillet along with the garlic. The mushrooms add a rich, earthy flavor that compliments the creamy sauce.

Creamy Pesto Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Stir in a couple of tablespoons of basil pesto into the cream sauce for a fresh, herbaceous flavor. You can also garnish with extra basil leaves.

Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. You can also substitute spicy Italian sausage for chicken for a different protein option.

Vegetarian Tuscan Pasta

Reduce the amount of chicken and add more vegetables. You can add roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, and zucchini for a delicious and hearty vegetarian version.

Lemon Garlic creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a bright, citrusy flavor. This pairs wonderfully with the creamy, garlicky sauce and fresh spinach.

Mediterranean Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Incorporate Mediterranean ingredients such as olives, capers, and feta cheese into the sauce. This adds a salty, tangy contrast to the creamy pasta.

Broccoli Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Add steamed broccoli florets to the pasta for a healthy and colorful addition. The broccoli adds a nice crunch and pairs well with the creamy sauce.

tips for healthier variations

Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
Substitute heavy cream with a lighter cream or half-and-half to reduce fat content.
Use skinless chicken breast and trim any excess fat.
Increase the amount of vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for more vitamins and fiber.

frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Tuscan Chicken Pasta:

1. What is Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish inspired by the flavors of Tuscany, featuring chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese in a rich cream sauce.

2. Can I make Tuscan Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

3. Is it possible to substitute another kind of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, rigatoni, or bow-tie pasta.

4. Is there a dairy-free version of Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by using a dairy-free cream substitute and dairy-free Parmesan cheese. Coconut milk or cashew cream can also be used as an alternative to heavy cream.

5. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.

6. How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

7. Can I freeze Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

While you can freeze it, the cream sauce may separate upon thawing and reheating. If you do freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating it gently on the stovetop.

8. Can I make Tuscan Chicken Pasta gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that other ingredients, such as chicken broth and Parmesan cheese, are gluten-free.

9. How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken the sauce if it’s too thin. You can also add a bit more grated Parmesan cheese or a slurry of cornstarch and water to help thicken it.

10. What should I serve with Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

Tuscan Chicken Pasta pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans.

Treat yourself to a taste of Italy with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta. The combination of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce creates a satisfying and comforting dish. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this pasta will bring a touch of Tuscan warmth to your table.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta: A Flavor-Packed Delight with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach