Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta: A Rich, Restaurant-Style Dinner at Home

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. It brings together tender chicken, a silky cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach for a meal that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to prepare. I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between richness and freshness. The cream sauce is luxurious without being heavy, while the tomatoes and spinach add brightness and color. The first time I made this dish, it instantly felt like something you would order at a favorite Italian restaurant, yet it came together in one pan with minimal effort. It is ideal for weeknight dinners when you want something special, but it also works beautifully for guests. With simple ingredients and bold flavor, this pasta is a reliable recipe you will return to again and again.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breast
Chicken breast provides lean protein and cooks quickly. When sliced evenly, it stays tender and absorbs the creamy sauce well.

Salt
Salt enhances the natural flavor of the chicken and balances the richness of the sauce.

Black pepper
Black pepper adds mild heat and depth without overpowering the dish.

Olive oil
Olive oil is used to sear the chicken and build flavor at the base of the sauce.

Butter
Butter adds richness and helps create a smooth, flavorful sauce.

Garlic
Garlic brings aromatic depth and complements both the cream and chicken beautifully.

Sun-dried tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes add sweetness and tang, giving the dish its signature Tuscan character.

Heavy cream
Heavy cream forms the base of the sauce, creating a silky and luxurious texture.

Chicken broth
Chicken broth lightens the sauce slightly and adds savory depth.

Parmesan cheese
Parmesan cheese thickens the sauce and adds a nutty, salty finish.

Spinach
Spinach adds freshness, color, and a light contrast to the creamy sauce.

Pasta
Pasta such as penne or fettuccine holds the sauce well and completes the dish.

Italian seasoning
Italian seasoning ties the flavors together with classic herb notes.

Directions

Begin by cooking the pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve a small amount of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Season the chicken with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, add butter and garlic, cooking briefly until fragrant. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, then pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.

Add spinach and cook until wilted. Return the chicken to the pan, then add the cooked pasta. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Serve warm.

Equipment needed :

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of approximately 25 minutes. Total time is around 40 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce texture.

Variations and Customizations

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is highly adaptable. You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier result or use shrimp for a seafood variation. When I tested this recipe with shrimp, the sauce paired beautifully with the delicate flavor.

For a lighter version, replace part of the cream with half-and-half or milk, keeping in mind the sauce will be thinner. You can also add mushrooms for extra earthiness or red pepper flakes for gentle heat.

Different pasta shapes work well depending on preference. Rigatoni and farfalle hold the sauce nicely, while spaghetti offers a more elegant presentation. These adjustments allow you to tailor the dish to your taste while preserving its creamy, comforting nature.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish provides a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. It contains dairy and gluten and can be adapted for lower-carb or gluten-free diets with suitable substitutions.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Slice chicken evenly
Even pieces ensure consistent cooking.

Do not boil the sauce
Gentle heat keeps the sauce smooth.

Use freshly grated cheese
Fresh Parmesan melts better than pre-grated.

Adjust consistency
Pasta water helps control sauce thickness.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

It is best served fresh, but leftovers reheat well.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Milk can be used, but the sauce will be thinner.

What pasta works best?

Penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni are ideal.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, but spice can be added easily.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms or zucchini work well.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended due to the cream sauce.

What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Cherry tomatoes can be sautéed as an alternative.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep heat low and avoid rapid boiling.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta.

What pairs well with this pasta?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs nicely.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a comforting, elegant dish that brings rich flavor and simple preparation together in one satisfying meal. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant additions, it delivers restaurant-quality results at home. Easy to customize and consistently delicious, this recipe is a dependable choice for both busy weeknights and special dinners.

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