Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that transports your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched hills of Italy. This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and vibrant spinach, all enveloped in a luxurious, creamy sauce that clings beautifully to each piece of pasta. The flavors meld together so perfectly, it’s hard to believe it only takes 30 minutes to whip up! Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a soirée, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich flavors and comforting textures that will leave your family asking for seconds.
- Adaptable with various pasta types or proteins, ensuring there’s something for everyone!
- Gluten-free options available without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
– Short pasta (feel free to use gluten-free, whole wheat, or lentil options)
– Boneless skinless chicken breast (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
– Olive oil (or the oil from sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor)
– Garlic cloves (minced for that fragrant touch)
– Italian seasoning (adds a beautiful depth of flavor)
– Kosher salt and ground pepper (to taste, of course!)
– Sun-dried tomatoes in oil (adds a sweet and tangy dimension)
– Milk (2% or your choice for creaminess, though almond milk works too for a lighter option)
– Gluten-free flour or cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
– Baby spinach (fresh is key for a vibrant color and healthy boost)
– Parmesan cheese (the finishing touch for a rich, salty undertone)
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your choice of short pasta according to the package directions until al dente. (Trust me, it’ll be perfect when tossed into the creamy goodness later!)
2. In a bowl, chop and season the boneless skinless chicken breast with olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and pepper. Let those flavors meld together while your water is heating.
3. Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Allow it to cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
4. Sprinkle in those delightful sun-dried tomatoes! Stir them in and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked through. The aromatic scent will draw everyone to the kitchen!
5. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the milk with gluten-free flour or cornstarch until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture over the cooked chicken, mixing well to combine everything. Don’t worry if your sauce looks a little lumpy – it’s all part of the magic!
6. Let the sauce bubble and thicken for a few minutes – just about 3-4 minutes will do the trick.
7. Now it’s time to add the baby spinach! Stir it in until it wilts beautifully, giving you that lovely pop of green.
8. Toss in the cooked pasta along with the Parmesan cheese. Give everything a good stir to ensure every bite is coated in that decadent sauce.
9. Enjoy your beautifully plated Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
– For a healthier twist, almond milk works beautifully, but avoid any sweetened varieties! For those extra creamy vibes, consider using heavy cream or a splash of cream cheese.
– If you prefer a thicker sauce, adding a bit more flour or cornstarch can help achieve that perfect consistency.
– Feel free to switch out the chicken breast for boneless thighs or even shrimp if you’re feeling adventurous. Each variation adds a unique flavor profile to your dish!
– Make sure to opt for fresh garlic over garlic powder for that vibrant taste. And don’t forget to cook your pasta al dente to prevent it from getting mushy!
How to Serve
Serve your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or garlic bread for that extra indulgence. You can even add a splash of red pepper flakes for some heat—just a little sprinkle goes a long way!
Make Ahead and Storage
If you have leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is rarely the case), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to help revive the creamy consistency. You can also freeze the sauce separately without the pasta; simply reheat and add freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to enjoy.
Let the flavors of Tuscany take over your dinner table with this delightful Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta. It’s an effortless yet show-stopping dish that will bring a smile to everyone’s face. Happy cooking!
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 10 ounces short pasta gluten-free if needed, whole wheat, or lentil pasta
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or use the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes
- 3-4 garlic cloves minced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Kosher salt to taste
- ground pepper to taste
- 8 ounces sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 3 cups 2% Milk or use any other milk or lite coconut cream
- 2 tablespoons gluten-free flour or corn starch
- 3 cups baby spinach
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the short pasta according to package directions to al dente.
- Chop the chicken breast into 1-inch pieces and mix with olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 5-7 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk together the milk and gluten-free flour until smooth, then pour over the chicken and let simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
- Add the spinach and stir until wilted, then mix in the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine and enjoy.