Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 300g fettuccine or pasta of choice; Salt, for pasta water; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 chicken breasts, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; Chopped parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: World Flavor Essentials

When I first tackled Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, I knew I wanted a dish bursting with flavor and ease. The blend of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a creamy sauce captures the essence of Italian comfort food in each bite. As I prepared this dish, I was surprised at how quickly it came together, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The key is balancing the seasoning and letting the chicken soak up the rich flavors, resulting in a dish that’s both satisfying and elegant.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:49:36.384Z

Making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta was a delightful experience that sparked my creativity in the kitchen. The vibrant colors of the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach instantly made the dish come alive. I opted for fettuccine for its ability to hold the luscious sauce, and it turned out perfectly. As the dish simmered, the aroma filled my kitchen, instantly making me feel like I was dining in a trattoria in Tuscany.

Plus, I discovered that adding a splash of pasta cooking water to the sauce can elevate the creaminess without making it too heavy. It’s a simple trick that ensures everything binds together beautifully. I not only savored this meal but also felt proud of the rich flavors I created in a short amount of time.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A harmonious blend of creamy and tangy flavors
Quick and easy preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights
Fresh ingredients bring a taste of Italy right to your table

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients significantly impacts the flavor of your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta. Using fresh spinach instead of wilted or frozen will yield a brighter taste and better texture, enhancing the overall dish. Similarly, choosing high-quality sun-dried tomatoes can elevate the dish's flavor profile; look for those packed in oil, as they are more flavorful and succulent than dried varieties.

Parmesan cheese is another key player in this recipe. Opt for freshly grated cheese rather than the pre-packaged kind, as it melts more smoothly and integrates better into the sauce. The cheese not only thickens the sauce but also adds a nutty richness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Chicken

The chicken breasts must be cooked just right to maintain moisture and tenderness. Cooking them at medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes allows for a nice sear, developing a golden crust while ensuring the inside stays juicy. If you notice the chicken browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to prevent burning while achieving a thorough cook.

To cut down on cooking time and ensure even cooking, slicing the chicken into thinner pieces is beneficial. Aim for uniform thickness of about half an inch. This technique not only helps with cooking time but allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce much better when combined later.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious meal.

For the Pasta

300g fettuccine or pasta of choice
Salt, for pasta water

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 chicken breasts, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish

Make sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy masterpiece.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken breasts and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce

Add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, followed by the spinach, and cook until wilted.

Combine

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta!

Don’t forget to save any leftover sauce for a quick meal later!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the chicken in Italian herbs for an hour before cooking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, keep in mind that the sauce may thicken as it cools. To remedy this when reheating, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to regain that creamy texture. Warm it gently over low heat to avoid breaking the sauce.

If you're looking to meal prep, consider cooking the chicken and sauce separately, then combine them with the pasta just before serving. This will keep the textures intact and ensure the dish is fresh when you're ready to enjoy it.

Variations and Flavor Enhancements

For a burst of freshness, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving. The acidity brightens the dish and complements the creaminess of the sauce. Alternatively, you can incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to introduce additional textures and flavors that complement the existing ingredients.

If you prefer a spicier kick, adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers will infuse heat throughout the dish. Start with a pinch and taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level without overpowering the creamy goodness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rigatoni.

→ How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a low-fat alternative. Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth.