Delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe to Savor

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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken and a rich creamy sauce with vibrant flavors. This Italian-inspired recipe features baked chicken breasts seasoned to perfection, served over rigatoni pasta. Tossed in a luscious sauce made with heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, this meal is comfort food at its finest. The blend of ingredients creates a delicious harmony that is sure to please your taste buds. Let’s dive into this easy creamy Tuscan chicken pasta recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

This dish is not just about flavor; it’s about convenience and satisfaction. Here are some reasons why you’ll adore this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta:

Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
Rich and creamy sauce that balances the savory chicken and vegetables.
Perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Gluten-free options available with simple ingredient swaps.
Can be customized with different proteins or vegetables for a personal touch.
Ideal for family dinners or impressing guests with an authentic Italian creamy chicken pasta dish.

Ingredients for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Gather these items:

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1 pound)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking chicken)
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
8 ounces rigatoni pasta noodles, cooked al dente according to package instructions
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 tablespoons (½ stick, 57 g) unsalted butter
¼ cup (40 g) shallot, finely diced
¼ cup (27.5 g) sun-dried tomatoes, softened in hot water and chopped
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 ½ cups (357 g) heavy cream
1 ½ cups (245 g) milk
1 cup (30 g) fresh spinach
1 cup (100 g) parmesan cheese, grated (plus more for garnish)
1 cup (149 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
Fresh parsley
Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Rub the chicken breasts with 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.
Step 2: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish and roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until cooked through and juices run clear. Remove and let rest.
Step 3: While the chicken bakes, cook rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 4 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Sauté the diced shallots until translucent, about 2 minutes. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Stir in 2 tablespoons tomato paste, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
Step 6: Stir in fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 7: Add the drained rigatoni pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat every piece evenly.
Step 8: Slice the rested chicken breasts thinly and arrange on top of the sauced pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Keep these in mind:

This dish pairs well with a side salad.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat.
For a gluten-free creamy Tuscan chicken pasta, substitute rigatoni with gluten-free pasta.
Feel free to add a splash of white wine to elevate the sauce flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Consider these serving ideas:

Pair it with garlic bread for a complete meal.
Top with extra parmesan for added richness.
Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced dinner.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

To store leftovers, place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture. This Easy creamy Tuscan chicken pasta dinner is perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

What is creamy Tuscan chicken pasta?

Creamy Tuscan chicken pasta is a delectable dish made with baked chicken, rigatoni, and a rich creamy sauce featuring sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. It embodies the essence of Italian cuisine.

Can I make creamy Tuscan chicken pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply cook the pasta and combine it with the sauce for a quick meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with creamy Tuscan chicken pasta?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure not to overcook the chicken and stir the sauce continuously to prevent it from sticking. Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Variations of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta You Can Try

Here are some delicious creamy Tuscan chicken pasta options:

Substitute rigatoni with penne for a different pasta shape.
Add roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
Make it a one-pot creamy Tuscan chicken pasta by cooking everything in a single pot.
For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.

For more delicious recipes, check out Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta or Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit Creamy Pesto Spinach Gnocchi for a delightful option.