Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Save this recipe on:

Creamy, savory, and loaded with bold Italian flavor, my Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a dish I keep coming back to over and over again. The moment that velvety garlic cream sauce hits the hot pasta and wraps itself around the golden-seared chicken, it’s magic. I’ve always had a soft spot for rustic, comforting meals, and this one absolutely checks all the boxes.

I remember the first time I made this—it was a chilly evening and I wanted something that felt like a warm hug on a plate. The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a touch of Parmesan cheese stirred into a rich cream sauce turned out even better than I had imagined. The chicken, seasoned and seared until golden, added a hearty and satisfying bite to the luscious pasta.

It’s now one of my go-to recipes for weeknights and date nights alike. The simplicity of ingredients paired with the elegance of flavor makes it feel special, even though it comes together quickly. Whether you’re hosting or just treating yourself, Tuscan Chicken Pasta never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Tuscan Chicken Pasta

This Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe is pure comfort food with a gourmet feel. The creamy garlic sauce is decadent but not overwhelming, with just the right balance of acidity from the sun-dried tomatoes and earthiness from the spinach. It’s a one-pan recipe that feels like you’ve spent hours crafting it, but in reality, it’s weeknight-friendly. Perfectly seasoned chicken, al dente pasta, and fresh herbs come together in a harmony of flavors that’s both rich and refreshing. Whether you’re making it for family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish will win you over from the first bite.

Ingredients

Chicken breast is the hero protein here. It cooks quickly, absorbs flavor beautifully, and provides a satisfying bite. Pasta, preferably rigatoni or penne, is perfect for catching all that luscious sauce in every tube. Heavy cream creates the rich, silky base that binds the dish together. Garlic and onion lay the flavor foundation while Parmesan adds a salty, nutty depth. Sun-dried tomatoes bring a tangy-sweet burst of brightness. Fresh spinach adds color and a hint of bitterness that cuts through the richness. Olive oil is essential for searing and building flavor from the start, while a mix of Italian herbs (like basil, oregano, and thyme) completes the Tuscan flair.

How to Make Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes and seasoning them with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chicken in a drizzle of olive oil until golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Base

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté diced onion until translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and stir just until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Pour in heavy cream and stir to loosen any browned bits stuck to the skillet. Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Fold in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and let everything simmer for a few minutes to deepen the flavors.

Step 4: Add the Greens

Stir in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt into the sauce. Season with more Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, along with your cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and the chicken is well distributed. Serve hot with extra Parmesan if desired.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re looking to change things up or work with what you have on hand, there are plenty of easy swaps that still deliver on flavor. Instead of chicken breast, try boneless chicken thighs for juicier bites. For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or cannellini beans. If you’re avoiding dairy, coconut cream can work in place of heavy cream, and nutritional yeast can stand in for Parmesan.

Pasta-wise, feel free to use fettuccine, rotini, or even gluten-free varieties. Baby kale or arugula can substitute spinach, adding their own unique character. Not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes? Cherry tomatoes, blistered in the pan, provide a similar sweet acidity.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Tuscan Chicken Pasta is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it shines even brighter with a few accompaniments. A crisp green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette adds freshness, while garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for mopping up the sauce. For drinks, a glass of Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir complements the creamy richness. To keep things family-friendly, a sparkling lemonade or herbal iced tea works wonderfully too.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce overnight, so refreshing it with a bit of extra cream or broth helps bring it back to life.

FAQs

What type of pasta is best for Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

I love using rigatoni or penne because their hollow centers and ridges hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. But any short pasta will do in a pinch.

Can I make Tuscan Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the full dish and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to reheat it slowly and add a touch of liquid to keep it creamy.

Is Tuscan Chicken Pasta spicy?

It isn’t inherently spicy, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Can I freeze Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

It’s not my favorite for freezing due to the cream sauce, which can separate. However, if you do freeze it, make sure to thaw it in the fridge and stir in extra cream when reheating.

How can I make Tuscan Chicken Pasta healthier?

Swap the heavy cream for light cream or whole milk, reduce the amount of cheese, and use whole grain or lentil-based pasta for added fiber.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you can’t get enough of creamy, flavor-packed pasta dishes like this, then you’ll want to check out my Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta. It delivers that same luscious, indulgent sauce with a spicy Southern twist. Another must-try is my Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, which offers a lighter but equally bold flavor profile. And if you’re looking for a colorful veggie-packed side to go with today’s recipe, my Roasted Zucchini and Squash is a fresh and tasty option.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to pin this Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s always at your fingertips when the craving strikes. Share it with friends and family on Facebook or Instagram and let them know what they’re missing out on. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests, this recipe is worth bookmarking and revisiting often.

Save this recipe on: