This Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish loaded with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and fettuccine in a rich parmesan cream sauce. It’s the perfect blend of Italian flavors and makes for an indulgent yet easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
- 1¼ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 ounces uncooked fettuccine
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ¼ teaspoon dried marjoram
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ⅔ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ⅔ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 4 cups baby spinach
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water in case you need it for the sauce later.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, parsley, and marjoram, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes. Add the baby spinach and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts.
Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Pasta
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat the chicken with the sauce. Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed. Serve the Tuscan Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with extra parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Notes:
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Be sure to drain the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes to avoid making the dish too oily. You can pat them dry with a paper towel if needed.
- Creaminess: If you prefer a richer sauce, you can add more heavy cream or parmesan cheese. For a lighter version, you can substitute some of the cream with milk or half-and-half.
- Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water helps to thin the sauce if needed while also adding some starch to help the sauce stick to the pasta.
Variations:
1. Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta:
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add diced chili peppers for an extra kick of heat.
2. Tuscan Shrimp Pasta:
Swap the chicken for shrimp. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque, then proceed with the rest of the recipe.
3. Vegetarian Tuscan Pasta:
Omit the chicken and add more vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian version of this dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and chicken, cook the pasta, and toss everything together. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra cream or chicken broth to keep the sauce from drying out.
Q: Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! You can substitute the fettuccine with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti.
This Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for an easy yet indulgent weeknight meal. The combination of tender chicken, rich cream sauce, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach makes every bite a delight. The dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days when you want something satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this pasta is sure to impress. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of Italy right at home
