Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Hey there, pasta lovers! I’m so excited to share one of my absolute favorite weeknight meals with you: Tuscan Chicken Pasta. This dish is the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, so you can have a restaurant-worthy meal on the table in no time!

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights134.

• Flavor Explosion: The creamy Tuscan sauce, combined with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, is simply irresistible48.

• Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite pasta, veggies, or protein1.

• Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit with the whole family8.

Quick Facts

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Servings: 4

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 8 oz penne pasta3

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise)3

• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided3

• 2 teaspoons fine sea salt, divided3

• 1 teaspoon black pepper, divided3

• 1 teaspoon paprika3

• ½ cup flour3

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder3

• 2 tablespoons oil3

• 3 tablespoons butter, divided3

• ½ yellow onion, diced3

• 4 garlic cloves, minced3

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained3

• 1 ½ cups heavy cream3

• ½ cup chicken broth3

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese3

• 3 cups packed baby spinach3

• Salt and pepper to taste3

Let’s Get Cooking!

1. Get Started: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water before you drain it – this helps to make the sauce extra creamy7.

2. Prep the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the flour, paprika, and garlic powder3. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture.

3. Sear the Chicken: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown1. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4. Sauté Aromatics: Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant4.

5. Make the Sauce: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese3. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let the sauce thicken for a few minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Add Spinach: Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted1.

7. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and seared chicken to the skillet with the sauce1. Toss to combine, adding a little of the reserved pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency7.

8. Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired2.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta2.

• Garlic Bread: Because who doesn’t love garlic bread with pasta?

• Roasted Vegetables: Add some roasted asparagus or broccoli for a healthy side1.

Tips for Customization

• Pasta: Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape. Rigatoni, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta all work well61.

• Chicken: You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts1. Shrimp is also a delicious option1.

• Veggies: Add other veggies like kale or mushrooms1.

• Spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat4.

• Make it Healthier: Use almond milk instead of heavy cream to reduce the calorie count1.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it first and squeeze out any excess water1.

Can I make this ahead of time?

The pasta is best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days1. Keep in mind that the sauce may thicken as it sits.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any veggies you like.

Enjoy your delicious and easy Tuscan Chicken Pasta! Let me know in the comments what you think.