When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the cozy embrace of Tuscan Chicken Pasta. This dish brings the heartiness of Italian cuisine straight to your kitchen, combining tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy sauce that envelops each piece of pasta.
Why We Love This Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe
What makes Tuscan Chicken Pasta a favorite in so many homes? First and foremost, it’s the remarkable blend of flavors. The sun-dried tomatoes lend a sweet-tart edge, while the blend of herbs imparts an aromatic quality that’s simply irresistible. The addition of fresh spinach and grated parmesan gives the dish a fresh, vibrant finish. Furthermore, it’s a versatile recipe; you can easily modify it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Above all, this dish is quick and easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients about Tuscan Chicken Pasta
To create this creamy and delicious Tuscan Chicken Pasta, you’ll need a variety of ingredients that come together to create a fully rounded dish. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- Chicken Breast: 1 1⁄2 lbs (680 g), cut into 1″ pieces
- Flour: 1⁄2 cup (63 g), all-purpose
- Salt: 1⁄2 teaspoon table salt (plus extra for pasta)
- Black Pepper: 1⁄2 teaspoon ground
- Cooking Oil: 2 Tablespoons
- Salted Butter: 1 Tablespoon
- Penne Pasta: 8 oz (227 g)
- Yellow Onion: 1 cup (140 g), diced
- Red Bell Pepper: 1, diced
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 1 cup, julienne-cut and well-drained of oil
- Garlic: 2 Tablespoons, minced
- Dried Basil: 2 teaspoons
- Dried Thyme: 1 1⁄2 teaspoons
- Paprika: 1/4 teaspoon
- Crushed Red Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
- Chicken Broth: 3⁄4 cup (177 ml)
- Half and Half: 2 cups (473 ml)
- Baby Spinach: 4 cups (100 g), fresh
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup (80 g), grated (plus additional for topping if desired)
How to Make Tuscan Chicken Pasta Directions
Making Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these simple steps to bring this fantastic dish to your table:
Prepare the Chicken: Start by combining the flour, salt, and black pepper in a large Ziploc bag. Add the chicken pieces and toss until they are well-coated in the mixture. This step adds a delightful crust to the chicken when cooked.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the cooking oil and salted butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook them until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, set the chicken aside on a plate.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add a little extra oil and butter if needed. Toss in the diced onion and red bell pepper. Cook them for around 3-5 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
Cook the Pasta: While the vegetables are cooking, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Flavor Infusion: Add the sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic to the skillet with the onions and bell pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Add the Herbs and Seasoning: Stir in the dried basil, thyme, additional salt (if necessary), black pepper, paprika, and crushed red pepper. Allow the mixture to heat through for another minute.
Incorporate the Liquids: Pour in half of the chicken broth and let it reduce by half. After that, add the remaining chicken broth and the half and half. Stir to combine, creating a rich and creamy sauce.
Combine Everything: Once the sauce is warmed through, add the drained pasta, cooked chicken, fresh spinach, and grated parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir everything well, ensuring the pasta is coated evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the sauce to thicken.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the pasta is perfectly coated and the sauce has thickened, it’s time to serve! Plate the Tuscan Chicken Pasta warm, and if you desire, sprinkle additional parmesan cheese on top before digging in.
How to Serve Tuscan Chicken Pasta
When it comes to serving Tuscan Chicken Pasta, presentation can elevate the dining experience. Consider serving this dish in large, shallow bowls to showcase the colorful ingredients and creamy sauce. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese, a few fresh basil leaves, or even a drizzle of olive oil for an added touch of elegance.
Pair this delightful pasta with a simple side salad of mixed greens dressed in a light vinaigrette, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta dish. If desired, crusty bread on the side can make for the perfect vehicle to scoop up any remaining sauce.
Enjoying this dish as part of a family meal or a dinner party will surely garner compliments from your guests, as the flavors of Tuscan Chicken Pasta are nothing short of a culinary hug!
Expert Tips: Tuscan Chicken Pasta
To ensure that your Tuscan Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider the following expert tips:
Marinade for Extra Flavor: If you have some time, marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, salt, and Italian herbs for at least 30 minutes will deepen the flavor before you coat it in flour.
Pasta Cooking Tips: Always cook your pasta in well-salted water. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavor of the pasta itself, making the end dish even more delectable.
Cream Sauce Consistency: Keep in mind that as the sauce cools, it will thicken. If you find the sauce too thick for your liking, you can add a splash more chicken broth or half and half to reach your desired consistency.
Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and good quality sun-dried tomatoes can significantly elevate the dish. Opt for sun-dried tomatoes in oil for greater flavor, or if using dried, rehydrate them in warm water before incorporating.
Taste As You Go: Don’t forget to taste as you cook! Adjust the seasoning to suit your palate; everyone’s preference when it comes to salt and spice can differ.
How to Store Tuscan Chicken Pasta
If you happen to have any leftovers (although it’s hard to resist this dish), storing Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a breeze. Allow the meal to cool down to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. Stored this way, it can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or half and half to help restore the creamy texture. You can also microwave it for a quicker option, making sure to stir it halfway through reheating.
Variation of Tuscan Chicken Pasta
One of the best features of Tuscan Chicken Pasta is its versatility. Here are some enjoyable variations you might consider:
Swap the Protein: If you prefer, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp or even diced turkey. Both options will cook quickly and integrate harmoniously with the sauce.
Add Other Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables that you love or have on hand. Zucchini, mushrooms, or even kale can provide a nice touch.
A Kick of Flavor: For a spicier version, you can increase the amount of crushed red pepper or add diced jalapeños to the mix.
Gluten-Free Option: Should you need a gluten-free alternative, swap penne pasta for a gluten-free brand or use spiralized zucchini for a lighter dish.
Dairy-Free Adjustments: To make a dairy-free version, you can use coconut milk or a plant-based cream instead of half and half and substitute nutritional yeast for parmesan cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tuscan Chicken Pasta?
Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a creamy pasta dish that features chicken breast, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh vegetables, and an assortment of herbs. The combination creates a savory and comforting meal perfect for various occasions.
Can I make Tuscan Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare most of the components ahead of time. Just store the cooked chicken, pasta, and sauce separately until you’re ready to combine and heat everything before serving.
How can I modify Tuscan Chicken Pasta to be lighter?
To make this dish lighter, you can use less pasta and increase the amount of vegetables or opt for whole-wheat pasta. Additionally, you could substitute half and half with low-fat milk or cashew cream for a creamy texture without as many calories.
Can I freeze Tuscan Chicken Pasta?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Tuscan Chicken Pasta. Just be sure to portion it out into airtight containers. When ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What pairs well with Tuscan Chicken Pasta?
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables. A light dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pot
- Ziploc Bag
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs chicken breast cut into 1″ pieces
- ½ cup flour all-purpose
- ½ tsp. table salt plus extra for pasta
- ½ tsp. black pepper ground
- 2 Tbsp. cooking oil
- 1 Tbsp. salted butter
- 8 oz. penne pasta
- 1 cup yellow onion diced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes julienne-cut and well-drained of oil
- 2 Tbsp. garlic minced
- 2 tsp. dried basil
- 1½ tsp. dried thyme
- ¼ tsp. paprika
- ¼ tsp. crushed red pepper optional
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- 2 cups half and half
- 4 cups baby spinach fresh
- 1 cup parmesan cheese grated (plus additional for topping if desired)
Instructions
- In a large Ziploc bag, combine flour, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken pieces and toss until well-coated.
- In a large skillet, heat cooking oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and add onion and bell pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes until softened.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes until garlic is fragrant.
- Stir in basil, thyme, salt, black pepper, paprika, and crushed red pepper. Heat through for another minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and let it reduce by half. Add remaining broth and half and half, stirring to combine.
- Add pasta, cooked chicken, spinach, and parmesan cheese. Stir until combined and spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional parmesan cheese if desired.
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