Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, a delightful dish that brings the essence of Italy to your dinner table. With tender, golden-brown chicken, fresh baby spinach, and tangy sundried tomatoes nestled in a luxurious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, this pasta recipe is guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will make every bite feel like a warm hug. With just the right balance of creamy, savory, and aromatic flavors, it’s perfect for any pasta lover in your life.
Ingredients :
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ¼ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin, bite-sized strips
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon dried marjoram
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ⅔ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- ⅔ cup sundried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions :
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 2: Boil the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet over low heat.
- Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, parsley, basil, marjoram, and red pepper flakes, letting them bloom for about 1 minute.
- Increase the heat to medium-low, then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream.
- Simmer the mixture for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow it to reduce slightly and thicken.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Lower the heat to the lowest setting, then gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce becomes silky smooth.
- Add the baby spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the sundried tomatoes and the cooked chicken, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Toss with Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat it in the creamy sauce.
- If the sauce seems too thick, gradually stir in a little of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper, if needed.
- Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley for added flair.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Tuscan Chicken Pasta
- Cutting Chicken Properly: Thin, uniform chicken strips ensure even cooking and help achieve a beautiful golden-brown sear.
- Pasta Choices: While fettuccine works wonderfully, you can also use penne, rigatoni, or rotini to hold the creamy sauce.
- Save That Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is a game-changer for adjusting the sauce consistency.
- Fresh Parmesan Only: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and creaminess.
- Simmer, Don’t Boil: Keep the sauce at a simmer while reducing to prevent separation and ensure a velvety texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 1027 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 78g
- Protein: 55g
- Fat: 56g
- Saturated Fat: 27g
- Cholesterol: 279mg
- Sodium: 592mg
- Potassium: 1695mg
- Fiber: 6g
- Vitamin A: 4585 IU
- Vitamin C: 18mg
- Calcium: 322mg
- Iron: 5mg
Conclusion :
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the comfort of a home-cooked dish together with the elegance of Italian cuisine. Each bite delivers a perfect medley of textures and flavors—the tender, golden chicken complements the silky, garlic-infused Parmesan cream sauce, while the sundried tomatoes add a tangy punch and the wilted baby spinach provides a fresh, earthy balance. This dish is versatile enough to fit any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to an impressive main course for entertaining guests.
What sets this recipe apart is its ability to bring everyone to the table, enticing both pasta aficionados and those who love a hearty, satisfying meal. It’s a dish that doesn’t just nourish—it creates memories. Imagine gathering around with your loved ones, enjoying this rich and flavorful pasta while sharing stories and laughter. With its straightforward preparation and crowd-pleasing taste, it’s destined to become a cherished recipe in your collection.
Pair it with a glass of your favorite wine, some crusty garlic bread, and perhaps a simple Caprese salad for a truly indulgent Italian feast. And the best part? Any leftovers reheat beautifully, making for an equally delightful second meal. So, whether you’re savoring this meal on a weeknight or serving it to impress a dinner party, Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta promises to deliver joy and satisfaction with every single bite.
