Name: Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts; 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini recommended); 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped); 3 cups fresh spinach; 3 garlic cloves (minced); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

When comfort food meets elegance, you get this creamy, flavor-packed Tuscan Chicken Pasta. Loaded with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, spinach, and a rich parmesan cream sauce, this dish brings the flavors of the Italian countryside to your weeknight table without fuss. It’s that one-pan kind of magic where everything comes together seamlessly, creating layers of savory, garlicky, and herby goodness in every bite.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or planning a cozy dinner for two, Tuscan Chicken Pasta never disappoints. It pairs the hearty satisfaction of pasta with the vibrant notes of sun-dried tomatoes and the earthiness of wilted spinach, all wrapped in a silky, cheesy sauce. It’s indulgent without being heavy, easy enough for a Tuesday night yet impressive enough to serve guests.

Why You’ll Love This Tuscan Chicken Pasta

This recipe ticks all the boxes for a winning dinner. It’s quick to prepare, requires simple pantry staples, and cooks up in just one pan. The juicy chicken is seared to golden perfection, the sauce comes together in minutes, and the pasta absorbs all that garlicky, herbed flavor like a dream. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Short pasta varieties like penne, rotini, or farfalle are best for this dish. Their ridges and twists hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. But if all you have is spaghetti or fettuccine, go for it—the flavors will still shine. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get too soft in the sauce.

Ingredients for the Tuscan Chicken Pasta

The heart of this recipe lies in its simple, flavorful ingredients. Each one adds depth and character to the final dish.

Chicken breast
Pasta
Sun-dried tomatoes
Fresh spinach
Garlic
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Italian seasoning

The chicken breast provides lean protein and soaks up all the seasonings during cooking. Pasta acts as the canvas that carries the sauce and toppings. Sun-dried tomatoes bring a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that cuts through the richness. Spinach adds color, nutrients, and a soft bite. Garlic is essential for its bold aroma and depth, while heavy cream and parmesan cheese build the luscious, silky sauce. Olive oil enhances searing and flavor. Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning round everything off with savory flair.

How To Make the Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. This step is key to infusing the oil with bold, zesty notes.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, scraping up any bits from the bottom. Let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes. Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine It All

Add the cooked pasta and fresh spinach into the sauce. Toss gently to coat. The spinach will wilt down quickly. Slice the chicken and add it back to the skillet, letting it warm through and soak up the sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper if desired.

How to Store and Serve Tuscan Chicken Pasta

This recipe feeds about four hungry people generously, or six if served with sides. It holds up well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

If you’re making it ahead, cook the pasta slightly under so it doesn’t get mushy when reheated. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers a total win.

What to Serve With Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Crispy on the outside and buttery inside, garlic bread is the perfect partner to mop up any leftover sauce.

Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil add freshness and a burst of acidity that complements the creamy pasta.

Roasted Asparagus

Its earthy, slightly sweet flavor brings balance to the rich sauce.

Lemon Arugula Salad

Peppery arugula and a zesty lemon vinaigrette add brightness and crunch.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

The tangy glaze and roasted edges contrast beautifully with the creamy pasta.

Parmesan-Crusted Zucchini

Crispy and cheesy, it pairs effortlessly with the Tuscan flavor profile.

Red Wine

A glass of Chianti or Pinot Noir enhances the herbs and richness of the dish.

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

Serve a small bowl as a second pasta course or offer it as a vegetarian alternative for guests【5†source】.

Want More Pasta Ideas with Creamy Goodness?

If you can’t get enough cozy, saucy pasta dishes, check out these reader favorites:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest pasta board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms? Try it with sundried tomato pesto? I love seeing your twists on these recipes.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and meal inspiration on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feel-good recipes!

Conclusion

Tuscan Chicken Pasta is more than just dinner; it’s a warm, creamy escape to the Italian countryside, right from your kitchen. With rich, familiar flavors and an approachable prep, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself making again and again. Whether for guests or your own comfort, this pasta delivers every time.