Name: Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta (You can substitute with any pasta of your choice); 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 3 cups fresh spinach; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a pasta dish that feels like a warm embrace from the heart of Italy, look no further than this Tuscan Chicken Pasta. Creamy, savory, and infused with the bright flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, every bite boasts a symphony of tastes and textures that make this recipe an instant family favorite. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to pull together, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings. Trust me, once you try this Tuscan Chicken Pasta, it will become your go-to comfort dish that you’ll want to make again and again.

Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to nailing this Tuscan Chicken Pasta. Each one plays an essential role—from the tender chicken breasts adding hearty protein, to the sun-dried tomatoes that pack a punch of tangy sweetness, and the fresh spinach providing a lovely pop of color and nutrients. Below, I’ve broken down the must-haves to keep your dish bursting with flavor and texture.

8 oz penne pasta: A versatile pasta shape that holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Adds protein and soaks up the vibrant sauce.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken to golden perfection.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant, savory base to the sauce.
1 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and moisture to the creamy sauce.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, rich texture that makes this dish irresistible.
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Brings a tangy, slightly sweet punch that’s signature to Tuscan flavors.
3 cups fresh spinach: Adds vibrant color and a delicate vegetal note without overpowering the dish.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Layers in subtle herbal magic that complements the tomatoes and chicken.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Enhances the Mediterranean profile of the dish with warm earthiness.
Salt, to taste: Essential for balancing and bringing out all the wonderful flavors.
Black pepper, to taste: Adds just the right hint of spice and brightness.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): A sprinkle on top brings that perfect salty finish.

How to Make Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until al dente—tender but still with a slight bite. Once ready, drain the pasta well and set it aside while you prepare the flavorful sauce. This step is simple but essential, ensuring your pasta perfectly absorbs the creamy Tuscan flavors later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat your chicken breasts dry and season them generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Removing the chicken and letting it rest allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every bite juicy and tender. Once rested, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces ready to mingle with the sauce.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, keeping all those delicious browned bits, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer, then stir in the heavy cream, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried basil, and oregano. Let this beautiful sauce simmer for about five minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly into a velvety consistency. This process brings out the richness of the cream while blending the Tuscan flavors seamlessly.

Step 4: Add the Spinach and Combine

Toss the fresh spinach into the sauce and stir just until it wilts, imparting fresh green color and a mild earthiness. Now, return the cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the skillet, folding everything together so every piece gets coated in that luscious sauce. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. This final step is where all the ingredients come together, creating a dish that’s both comforting and vibrant—classic Tuscan style.

How to Serve Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

For the final flourish, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top if you like. It adds a nutty, salty kick that elevates the flavors even more and looks inviting on the plate. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or some chopped fresh basil can also add a delightful aromatic touch that feels truly authentic.

Side Dishes

This Tuscan Chicken Pasta is rich and filling on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette are also fantastic for soaking up every bit of the creamy sauce, making your meal feel extra indulgent and complete.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to dress this up for guests or special occasions, serve the Tuscan Chicken Pasta in elegant shallow bowls, topped with a sprig of fresh basil and a Parmesan crisp on the side. Alternatively, for a casual family dinner, pile it high on a big platter letting everyone help themselves—comfort food made communal is always more special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Tuscan Chicken Pasta cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for next-day lunches or a quick dinner solution. Just give it a good stir before reheating to redistribute the sauce.

Freezing

Because of the cream sauce, freezing is best for short-term storage only. Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 1 month. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently. Keep in mind the texture might be slightly different after freezing, but the flavors will still shine through.

Reheating

Reheat Tuscan Chicken Pasta slowly over medium-low heat on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly without drying out. This method preserves the dish’s luscious texture and rich flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works perfectly because it holds the sauce well, feel free to substitute with fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. The key is choosing a pasta that can capture the creamy sauce in every bite.

Is it okay to substitute heavy cream with a lighter alternative?

You can use half-and-half or even whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as rich or thick. For the best creamy, indulgent texture that defines Tuscan Chicken Pasta, heavy cream is recommended, but feel free to adjust to suit your dietary needs.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken for hearty mushrooms or roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth, and this Tuscan Chicken Pasta transforms into a vibrant vegetarian delight without losing its comforting essence.

How spicy is this recipe?

This dish is mild and savory, with no added spicy heat. If you love a little kick, you can always add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or sprinkle some chili flakes on top when serving.

What wine pairs well with Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

A crisp Pinot Grigio or a light Chianti matches beautifully with the creamy tomato and herb flavors in this dish. The acidity in these wines balances the richness and complements the Mediterranean notes perfectly.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about Tuscan Chicken Pasta that brings comfort, warmth, and a touch of rustic elegance straight to your table. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dish delivers satisfaction with every forkful. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a cherished staple in your kitchen just like I have.

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Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 6 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

A creamy and flavorful Tuscan Chicken Pasta combining tender chicken breasts with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a rich garlic cream sauce, served over perfectly cooked penne pasta. This easy-to-make Italian-inspired dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside to keep warm.
Season the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until fragrant but not burnt.
Create the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the heavy cream, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
Simmer the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer over medium heat for approximately 5 minutes or until it thickens slightly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add the Spinach: Stir the fresh spinach into the sauce and cook until it wilts, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
Combine Pasta and Chicken: Fold the cooked pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet with the sauce, mixing everything until well combined. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serve: Serve the Tuscan chicken pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, for an extra layer of flavor.

Notes

You can substitute penne pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rigatoni or fusilli.
For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil offer a richer flavor than those packed dry.
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid curdling the cream sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing and Simmering
Cuisine: Italian