Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Spinach

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Spinach is a rich, flavorful, and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious creamy sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

Inspired by classic Tuscan flavors, this pasta dish delivers a gourmet taste without the need for complicated techniques. Its creamy, garlicky sauce, combined with juicy chicken and pasta, makes it perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even meal prep for busy days.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect blend of creamy indulgence and fresh, savory flavors. The sun-dried tomatoes give a slight tangy sweetness, the garlic and Parmesan add depth, and the spinach provides freshness. It’s a dish that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it ideal for impressing family or guests.

Every bite is rich, comforting, and perfectly balanced. The creamy sauce clings to the pasta and chicken, making it satisfying and irresistible.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Creamy and flavorful sauce with a hint of garlic and Parmesan.
• Juicy chicken pieces perfectly complement tender pasta.
• Fresh spinach adds nutrients and vibrant color.
• Quick and easy to prepare yet looks and tastes gourmet.
• Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or casual entertaining.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Course: Main Course / Dinner
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Estimated Calories: 550–600 per serving

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)

For the Pasta & Sauce:

• 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Cooking Directions

1. Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1–2 minutes.
4. Add liquids: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Add cheese and seasonings: Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
6. Combine pasta, chicken, and spinach: Add cooked pasta, chicken, and spinach to the sauce. Toss until pasta is coated, chicken is evenly distributed, and spinach is wilted.
7. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
2. Heat oil in skillet and cook seasoned chicken until done; remove from skillet.
3. Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes in butter.
4. Add heavy cream and chicken broth; simmer until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and seasonings.
6. Toss in pasta, chicken, and spinach; cook until spinach wilts and everything is coated.
7. Serve immediately with optional garnish.

How to Serve

• Serve warm as a complete meal.
• Pair with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a full dinner.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or parsley for added flavor and presentation.

Recipe Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smoothest sauce.
• Do not overcook chicken to maintain tenderness.
• Wilt spinach gently to retain color and nutrients.
• Adjust cream thickness by adding more or less chicken broth.
• Optional red pepper flakes add a subtle kick if desired.

Variations

Protein Swap: Use shrimp, turkey, or sausage instead of chicken.
Vegetarian Version: Omit chicken and add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Light Version: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
Pasta Swap: Use whole wheat pasta, gluten-free pasta, or zucchini noodles for a healthier option.
Cheese Variation: Add mozzarella or fontina cheese for extra creaminess.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Assemble without spinach and freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Add fresh spinach when reheating. Reheat in a skillet or oven until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Large pot for pasta
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw and drain well before adding to the sauce.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, cook the chicken and pasta separately, then assemble with sauce and store in the fridge. Reheat and add fresh spinach before serving.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and use dairy-free cheese.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, just warm the chicken in the sauce at the end.

Q: How do I thicken the sauce if too thin?
Simmer longer until it reduces, or stir in extra Parmesan cheese gradually.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Spinach is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings the taste of Italy to your dinner table. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh spinach make it a perfect comfort meal that feels gourmet but is easy to prepare. This versatile recipe is ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with minimal effort.