Go Back
+ servings
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta That Will Lift Your Spirits

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a quick, comforting meal that brings a taste of Italy to your home in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 720

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz pasta (rigatoni or penne) opt for gluten-free pasta if desired
For the Chicken
  • 1 lb chicken breast skinless for a healthier option
For the Sauce
  • 1 tbsp garlic parsley salt can substitute with regular salt and garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika smoked paprika adds unique flavor
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil for different flavor
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter sub with more olive oil to keep dairy-free
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes can use grape tomatoes if necessary
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes may substitute with fresh tomatoes if needed
  • 3 garlic cloves (pressed) garlic powder can be used, but in smaller amount
  • 3 cups heavy cream can use half-and-half or non-dairy cream
  • 3 cups fresh spinach (chopped) kale or other leafy greens can substitute
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated) Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for vegan option

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • deep skillet
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, drain the rest, and set aside.
  2. Season the chicken breast with garlic parsley salt and paprika, coating all sides evenly. Let sit for a few minutes.
  3. Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Cook seasoned chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from skillet and slice once cool.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce heat, add unsalted butter and let melt. Add halved cherry tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  5. Add pressed garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Pour in heavy cream and let simmer, stirring occasionally.
  6. Fold in chopped spinach, allowing it to wilt for 2-3 minutes. Add sliced chicken and mix well.
  7. Add drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in sauce. Add reserved pasta water to adjust consistency as needed. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or herbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 720kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 42gFat: 38gSaturated Fat: 22gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 1000mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Reserve pasta water for perfect saucy consistency. Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy. Fold spinach in just at the end for vibrancy.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!