Name: Tuscan Chicken Pasta: 6 Steps to Creamy Perfection
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into chunks; 12 oz rigatoni pasta; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 cups fresh spinach; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 ½ cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup chicken broth

Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a dish that brings the essence of Italy right to your table. This creamy delight features tender bites of seared chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and rigatoni, all tossed in a rich Parmesan cream sauce. It’s cozy, comforting, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal with friends. The combination of flavors in this dish makes it a go-to for Italian food lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Tuscan Chicken Pasta

This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this Tuscan Chicken Pasta:

It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
The creamy sauce is rich and satisfying, perfect for comfort food cravings.
Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor, elevating the dish.
Fresh spinach not only enhances the taste but also adds a pop of color.
It’s versatile; you can use different types of pasta, like Tuscan Chicken Noodles.
This dish fits nicely into a healthy lifestyle with a gluten-free option.
It’s great for meal prep, allowing for easy reheating later.

Ingredients for Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Gather these items:

1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into chunks
12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups fresh spinach
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup chicken broth

How to Make Tuscan Chicken Pasta Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add a touch more oil and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Meanwhile, cook rigatoni according to package directions. Drain and add to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the pasta in the sauce.
Step 5: Add spinach and cook until wilted. Return chicken to the pan and stir everything together until heated through.
Step 6: Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve hot with extra Parmesan if desired.

Tuscan Chicken Pasta: 6 Steps to Creamy Perfection - Tuscan Chicken Pasta - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Keep these in mind:

Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
For a low-carb option, consider using zucchini noodles instead of rigatoni.
Don’t skip the sun-dried tomatoes; they are vital for that authentic Tuscan Chicken Pasta flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Here are a few serving ideas:

Pair it with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
Serve with garlic bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
Top with extra Parmesan cheese for an extra indulgent touch.

How to Store and Reheat Tuscan Chicken Pasta

This dish is excellent for meal prep. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tuscan Chicken Pasta

What’s the secret to perfect Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

The secret lies in not overcooking the chicken and ensuring the sauce is rich and creamy. Use quality ingredients, especially fresh herbs and good Parmesan cheese, for the best flavor.

Can I make Tuscan Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish ahead of time, but it’s best to store the pasta and sauce separately to avoid sogginess. Reheat before serving to enjoy its creamy goodness again.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente before mixing with the sauce. Also, taste the sauce before serving to adjust seasoning.

Variations of Tuscan Chicken Pasta You Can Try

For those looking to switch things up, here are a few delicious variations:

Healthy Tuscan Chicken Pasta: Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Spinach: Add more spinach for extra nutrients.
One-Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta: Cook everything in one pot for easy cleanup.

Enjoy experimenting with these best Tuscan Chicken Pasta variations!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Small Batch Apple Pumpkin Muffins or Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies. If you’re looking for a hearty meal, try our Loaded Chicken Nachos Feast or Mini Pistachio Tartlets Recipe. For dessert, don’t miss our Molten Lava Chocolate Cake Recipe.

For more information on the health benefits of pasta, you can visit Healthline.