This Chicken Creamy Tuscan Pasta is a comforting bowl of goodness! It features tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh spinach, all mixed with pasta for a delightful meal.
Who can resist a creamy pasta dish? I often think I could eat this every day! It’s simple to make and perfect for busy nights or a cozy dinner at home.
I love how quickly it comes together. You just cook the chicken, stir in the creamy sauce, and toss with pasta. Easy peasy and oh-so-delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend rigatoni for its ability to hold onto the creamy sauce. Penne or bowtie pasta also works well if you prefer. Whole wheat pasta is a healthier alternative that maintains good texture.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great here, but you could use thighs for more flavor. Tofu or chickpeas can be excellent plant-based substitutes if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a lovely tang. If you can’t find them, consider using fresh cherry tomatoes or roasted bell peppers for a different twist on flavor.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream gives richness, you can substitute half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter option.
How Do You Make Sure Your Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken right is crucial for this dish. Here are some tips:
- Cut the chicken into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet to avoid steaming, which can happen when too much is in the pan at once.
- Cook on medium-high heat for about 5-6 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).
Follow these steps to ensure your chicken adds juicy, flavorful goodness to the pasta!
How to Make Chicken Creamy Tuscan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz rigatoni or other pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Flavor:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Creamy Tuscan Pasta will take about 30 minutes in total—10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful meal on the weekends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s boiling, add the rigatoni or your choice of pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—this usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet, cooking until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This step is crucial for ensuring your chicken is juicy and tasty!
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet (don’t wipe it clean!), add the minced garlic, stirring lightly for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they’ve softened, which should take about 4 minutes.
4. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach:
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook for a couple of minutes, just until the spinach has wilted down. This gives your dish flavor and color!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now, pour the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, mixing it together well. Bring it to a gentle simmer, and as it heats, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens slightly, creating a rich and creamy texture.
6. Combine All Ingredients:
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the pasta. Gently toss everything together to ensure the pasta and chicken are coated in that delightful creamy sauce. Heat it through for a few minutes.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of freshness. Serve immediately while it’s warm and creamy, and enjoy your Chicken Creamy Tuscan Pasta! It’s a dish that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitute and adds more fiber to the dish. Just note that cooking times might be slightly different, so keep an eye on it as it cooks.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Your Chicken Creamy Tuscan Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens up.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can omit the chicken and replace it with chickpeas or additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Just make sure to add some extra protein so it’s still satisfying!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or a cashew-based cream, which will still provide a rich texture.
