Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
A comforting bowl of creamy Tuscan chicken pasta brings the sun-kissed flavors of Italy to your table. Tender chicken, creamy sauce, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes over pasta make this dish a fragrant celebration of the Mediterranean.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 40 minutes mins
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Large pot
Skillet
Pasta spoon
Wooden spoon
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (100 g)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Filling
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb or 450 g)
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped (150 g)
- 3 cups fresh spinach (90 g)
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine (340 g)
Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Tip: Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining to adjust your sauce consistency later.
Sear the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and add to the skillet. Sear for approximately 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Tip: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
Combine Everything
Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach to the sauce, allowing the spinach to wilt slightly. Mix in the sliced chicken and cooked pasta, tossing everything to combine.
Tip: Use the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
Pro Tips for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
- Use fresh spinach for better flavor and texture.
- Adjust the garlic based on your preference for a mild or pungent taste.
- Consider marinating the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
- Swap fettuccine with whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for a hint of brightness.