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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Indulge in the rich flavors of this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, featuring tender chicken breast and sun-dried tomatoes simmered in a luscious garlic cream sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne. This dish is an elevated weeknight meal, bringing a taste of Italian sunshine right to your table. The vibrant notes of sun-dried tomatoes, the savory depth of chicken, and the silky texture of the creamy sauce create a harmonious blend that is both comforting and sophisticated, firmly placing it as a beloved pasta dish. It’s an easy yet impressive pasta creation, ideal for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a delightful solo treat. This recipe utilizes simple, accessible ingredients to create a truly memorable pasta experience, promising a restaurant-quality dish with minimal fuss, perfect for any occasion.

Preparation time
15 min
Cooking time
25 min
Total time
40 min
Servings
6

Instructions

Overall

  1. 1Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Set aside.
  2. 2While pasta cooks, season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  3. 3In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. 4Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. 5Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.
  6. 6Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the creamy Tuscan sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  7. 7Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your rich and flavorful Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta.

Nutrition Information

Calories
750 kcal
Protein
45 g
Fat
40 g
Carbs
50 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories750 kcal
Protein45 g
Fat40 g
Carbs50 g

Tips

  • Chop sun-dried tomatoes and mince garlic first to have them ready, as they cook quickly. This will ensure a smoother cooking process.
  • Do not overheat the heavy cream; keep it at a gentle simmer to prevent it from curdling. Stir often to maintain a smooth texture.
  • For extra zest, finish your dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes right before serving.

By Chef Michael Ilin