Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Short description

this Recipe

A rich, garlicky, and cheesy one‑pot pasta featuring tender chicken, sun‑dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan in a luxuriously creamy sauce—ready in just 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Whips up in just half an hour—perfect for busy weeknights. (simplyhomecooked.com, healthyfitnessmeals.com)
• Full of bold Italian flavors: garlic, sun‑dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and fresh spinach.
• One‑pan prep means less cleanup and maximum comfort. (cravinghomecooked.com)
• Adaptable—swap in your favorite pasta shape or lighten the sauce easily. (simplyhomecooked.com)

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless skinless chicken (tenders or breasts)
• Olive oil and unsalted butter
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Sun‑dried tomatoes (oil‑packed or drained)
• Baby spinach
• Heavy cream (or a mix of cream and milk for a lighter sauce)
• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• Penne (or your favorite pasta)
• Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (optional white wine or chicken broth)

directions

1. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium‑high heat, then add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through (about 5–7 min per side). Remove and set aside. (bakewithzoha.com, simplyhomecooked.com, cravinghomecooked.com)
2. In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add sun‑dried tomatoes and cook briefly until warmed.
3. Stir in spinach; cook until wilted.
4. Pour in heavy cream (or cream + milk), bring to a simmer, then add Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove from heat and stir until silky.
5. Return chicken (cubed or sliced) to the sauce. Add cooked penne and toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: ~10 minutes
• Cook time: ~20 minutes
• Total time: ~30 minutes (simplyhomecooked.com)

Variations

• Linguini, spaghetti, Gemelli, or farfalle can replace penne—cook al dente. (bakewithzoha.com)
• Chicken thighs may be used instead of breasts for juicier meat. (kitchenswagger.com)
• Lighten up: use half‑and‑half or mix milk with the cream. (iamhomesteader.com)
• Veggie swap: omit spinach, add broccoli, asparagus, or mushrooms. (simplyhomecooked.com)
• Add wine or broth: deglaze with a splash of white wine or broth before cream for extra depth.

storage/reheating

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooled portions in sealed bags or containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating:

• Microwave or heat gently on the stovetop—add a splash of cream, milk, or broth to refresh the sauce. Reheat slowly to prevent separation.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes—slice breasts into cutlets or cubes to ensure quick, even cooking.

2. Is it okay to omit spinach?

Absolutely—spinach adds color and nutrition, but you can substitute other veggies or skip it entirely. (simplyhomecooked.com)

3. Can I swap penne for another pasta shape?

Yes—linguini, spaghetti, farfalle, or rigatoni all work well. Just cook until al dente. (bakewithzoha.com)

4. How do I lighten the sauce?

Use half‑and‑half, mix milk and cream, or substitute some cream with broth or wine. (iamhomesteader.com)

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes—prepare chicken and sauce, refrigerate separately, then reheat and add freshly cooked pasta.

6. Will the sauce separate?

Cream sauces can separate if overheated. Reheat slowly, and add a bit of liquid (cream, milk, or broth) if needed.

7. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes—this freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

8. What cheese works best?

Parmesan is classic; Asiago or Pecorino Romano also add a rich, nutty flavor.

9. Can I skip the chicken?

Yes—for a vegetarian version, just omit it or add mushrooms or extra veggies.

10. Can I add wine or broth?

Yes—deglaze the pan with white wine or broth before adding cream to deepen the flavor.

Conclusion

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, vibrant tomatoes, and spinach, it’s a one‑pan wonder perfect for busy evenings or casual entertaining. Customize it with your favorite pasta, protein, and veggies—and enjoy a restaurant‑worthy meal at home.

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