Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, you’ve got to try this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that comes together quickly but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes make every bite a delight. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become your go-to weeknight dinner.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

I’ve kept the ingredient list straightforward, but these flavors really shine together. Pick fresh basil for the best aroma, and if you can find oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, use those—they bring a richer taste.

• Chicken Breast: Thin slicing helps it cook fast and stay juicy in the sauce.
• Smoked Paprika & Oregano: These herbs add a lovely smoky, earthy layer to your chicken.
• Sun Dried Tomato Oil: This is where a lot of the Tuscan magic happens—don’t skip it if you can help it!
• Long-Cut Pasta (like Linguine): It holds the luscious sauce beautifully.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps bloom the garlic.
• Garlic: Fresh and finely diced for that punch of flavor.
• Tomato Puree (Tomato Paste): Concentrated tomato flavor that deepens the sauce.
• Chicken Stock: Homemade or cube-based both work; just make it flavorful.
• Double/Heavy Cream: The secret to that creamy texture you’ll swoon over.
• Sun Dried Tomatoes: Chopped finely so each bite gets that tangy sweetness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is key—you’ll notice the difference!
• Fresh Basil: Brings a fresh and herby brightness to balance the creaminess.
• Baby Spinach: Adds color, vitamins, and a subtle earthiness without overpowering the dish.

Variations

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe is flexible, and I encourage you to make it your own. When I first tried adding mushrooms, it added a wonderful umami boost! Feel free to swap pasta types or add veggies you love.

• Vegetarian Variation: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or artichokes for a lovely twist.
• Spicy Kick: I sometimes toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes—it gives a subtle heat that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Low Carb: Try using zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles for a lighter version that’s still satisfying.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken to Juicy Perfection

The trick I learned early on is slicing the chicken breast horizontally creates thinner pieces that cook evenly and quickly without drying out. Coat each side with the smoked paprika, oregano, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat your sun-dried tomato oil in a pan over medium-high heat—once hot, add the chicken and cook about 3 minutes on each side, until you see a nice light char and the chicken is nearly cooked through. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly done, it will finish cooking in the sauce later. Set it aside and slice just before the next step, so it stays tender.

Step 2: Cook Pasta Al Dente – Don’t Drain Water

Add your pasta to well-salted boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente. The key here is to reserve a bit of the pasta water—it’s magic for thinning the sauce if it gets too thick. I like to toss the pasta right into the sauce pan so it absorbs all those creamy flavors.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower your heat to medium and melt the butter in the same pan you cooked the chicken to soak up those lovely bits. Add the diced garlic and sauté for just 10-20 seconds—don’t let it burn! Stir in the tomato puree and cook for about a minute, which deepens the flavor. Slowly pour in the chicken stock and cream, stirring to combine. Now add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and freshly grated parmesan. Let it simmer gently, then reduce the heat so it stays warm but doesn’t boil.

Step 4: Finish with Spinach, Pasta & Chicken

Stir in the baby spinach until it just starts to wilt — remember, it’ll keep softening even after you take it off the heat. Using tongs, transfer the pasta straight from the pot to the pan and toss it well to coat every strand in that luscious sauce. Add your sliced chicken along with any juices that rested on the plate, and toss again. The sauce will thicken and cling beautifully to everything. If it feels too thick, a splash of the reserved pasta water will loosen it to the perfect consistency. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping this pasta with extra freshly grated parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil—it adds a pop of color and brightness that cuts through the richness. Sometimes, a little cracked black pepper on top adds just the right finishing touch.

Side Dishes

Pair it with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables to balance the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls also work beautifully to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. My family loves pairing this pasta with simple steamed broccoli for a healthy contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, I sometimes serve this pasta in individual shallow bowls, garnished with a fresh basil leaf and a light drizzle of good quality olive oil. It looks elegant but is super easy to portion. Adding a side of lemon wedges can brighten the whole plate and invite guests to customize their flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually let any leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, which is a nice bonus! Just be aware the spinach will look a little darker, but it doesn’t affect the taste.

Freezing

Freezing creamy sauces can be tricky because they sometimes separate. However, if you want to freeze this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe, freeze it without the spinach first—add fresh spinach when reheating. Portion into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

The best way to reheat is gently on the stove over medium-low heat. Add a splash of cream or chicken stock to bring the sauce back to its original creaminess. Stir often so it heats evenly and doesn’t stick.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s a no-fuss dish that feels fancy without the stress. I love how the flavors meld together with every bite—creamy, tangy, and herbaceous all at once. I highly recommend giving it a whirl on your next busy night or when you just want dinner to feel like a hug. You’ll enjoy how simple ingredients come together in such a memorable way—I promise it’ll become a new favorite in your rotation, just like mine.

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