As someone who loves Italian cuisine, I’m excited to share with you my favorite Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it and how to make it!
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
Why You’ll Love It
This Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines the best of Italian ingredients with a spicy kick. The creamy sauce, loaded with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 4 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
- Red pepper flakes (to taste)
- Kosher salt and black pepper
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 medium shallot, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2-3 tablespoons crushed Calabrian chili paste
- 1 pound short cut pasta (like rigatoni)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 jar (8 ounce) oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
Instructions
- Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Drain 3 tablespoons of oil from the sun-dried tomato jar into a large pot or skillet with sides. Chop the sun-dried tomatoes and set them aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Set the pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning, the paprika, and a pinch each of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Add 1/4 cup parmesan, cook another minute, then remove the chicken from the pot.
- Make the Sauce: To the same pot, add a drizzle of oil and the butter. Add the shallot, garlic, Calabrian chili paste, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cook until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add 3 1/2 cups water. Bring to a boil, add the pasta, and cook, stirring often, until the pasta is al dente, about 8 minutes.
- Combine Everything: Stir in the cream, spinach, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and remaining 3/4 cup parmesan. Slide the chicken in, along with any juices left on the plate.
- Serve: Serve the pasta topped with fresh parmesan and basil.
Serving Suggestions
- Add Some Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or almonds on top for added texture.
- Fresh Herbs: Use fresh basil or parsley for garnish to enhance the Italian flavors.
- Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Tips for Customization
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your desired level of spiciness.
- Protein Swap: Use shrimp or pork for a different twist on the dish.
- Veggie Addition: Add sliced bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 622 kcal
- Protein: 45 grams
- Fat: 35 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead, but it’s best to assemble and cook the pasta just before serving to maintain freshness.
Q: How can I reduce the calorie count?
A: Use less cream or substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version. Also, reduce the amount of parmesan cheese.
Q: What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
A: Short-cut pasta like rigatoni or penne works well because it holds onto the creamy sauce nicely. This Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a versatile and delicious meal that will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own!
