Delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe for Dinner

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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together tender baked chicken and rigatoni pasta, coated in a rich and creamy sauce that tantalizes your taste buds. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and parmesan cheese creates a symphony of flavors that makes this recipe a go-to for dinner. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience. Here are some reasons to love it:

Rich and creamy sauce that elevates the pasta.
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy ingredients like spinach and chicken packed with protein.
Versatile—perfect as a Tuscan Chicken Pasta Dinner Idea or a comforting dish any day.
Can be made in one pot, reducing cleanup time.
Offers a taste of Italy right in your kitchen.

This dish is not only delicious but also a Healthy Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta option that fits various dietary needs, being gluten-free and rich in nutrients.

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
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup shallot, finely diced
¼ cup 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 heavy cream
1 ½ cups milk
1 cup fresh spinach
1 cup parmesan cheese, grated (plus more for garnish)
1 cup 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 paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Heat 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. 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 olive oil and 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.
Step 5: Stir in 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.
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 Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Keep these in mind:

Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth.
Pair with a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

This Italian Chicken Pasta with Creamy Sauce is perfect on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience by serving it with:

Garlic bread for a delightful crunch.
A side of steamed vegetables for color and nutrition.
A fresh green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce. This makes it a convenient Quick Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors and the quality of your ingredients. Using fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes enhances the taste, making it a memorable Creamy Chicken and Pasta Dish.

Can I make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just combine them when you’re ready to serve for a quick and easy dinner.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your pasta is just al dente before combining with the sauce, and don’t overcook the spinach. This helps maintain the dish’s integrity and flavor.

Variations of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta You Can Try

Looking to switch things up? Here are a few variations:

Substitute the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
Try adding different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
For a lighter version, use whole grain pasta or zoodles (zucchini noodles).

These variations keep the dish fresh and exciting while maintaining its Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Cream Sauce essence.

Delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe for Dinner - Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta - main visual representation

Incredible homemade Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta ready in minutes

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Italian Meatball Soup or Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. You can also explore Incredible Pumpkin Sage Pasta for a seasonal twist!