Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Creamy White Sauce

uscan Chicken Pasta with Creamy White Sauce is a rich, flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and pasta — all enveloped in a luxuriously creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. It’s the kind of comforting meal that feels both indulgent and elegant, perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknight dinners.

This dish captures the essence of Tuscany, known for its rustic, earthy, and heartwarming cuisine. Each bite delivers layers of flavor — juicy, seasoned chicken; sweet and tangy sun-dried tomatoes; and fresh spinach all tossed in a silky cream sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta.

❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines everything I adore about Italian comfort food — creamy sauce, hearty pasta, and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. The balance of garlic, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes makes it deeply satisfying without feeling heavy.

It’s also versatile and impressive: easy enough for a weeknight, yet fancy enough for entertaining guests. Every time I make it, my kitchen fills with the irresistible aroma of garlic and cream simmering together — pure magic!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a must-try because:

• It’s rich and flavorful, yet balanced with fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes.
• The creamy white sauce is velvety, smooth, and coats the pasta perfectly.
• It’s quick and easy, ready in under an hour.
• It’s restaurant-quality and makes any meal feel special.
• It’s comfort food done right — filling, satisfying, and full of warmth.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4–5 servings
• Calories: Approximately 560 calories per serving

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: Italian (Tuscan-style)
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts (sliced horizontally or into cutlets)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine, penne, or linguine
• Salt (for pasta water)

For the Creamy White Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and sliced)
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish (optional):

• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Chopped fresh basil or parsley

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Season and sear chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
2. Cook the pasta until al dente and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, make the creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce.
4. Add sun-dried tomatoes and spinach to the sauce.
5. Toss pasta and sliced chicken into the sauce until coated.
6. Serve hot with extra Parmesan and herbs.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
3. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from skillet, let rest, and slice thinly.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy White Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce becomes smooth.
5. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Cook until spinach wilts and sauce thickens (about 3–4 minutes).

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet.
2. Toss gently to coat in sauce.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
4. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until everything is well combined and hot.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer to serving plates or a large bowl.
2. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped basil.
3. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

How to Serve

Serve this Tuscan Chicken Pasta:

• As a hearty main course with garlic bread or focaccia.
• Alongside a light green salad or Caesar salad.
• With a chilled glass of white wine such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.

It’s also perfect for romantic dinners, family meals, or meal prep lunches.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook the pasta. It continues to cook slightly in the sauce.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, silkier sauce.
• Sear chicken properly. The golden crust adds deep flavor to the dish.
• Add pasta water sparingly to adjust sauce consistency.
• For extra flavor, use sun-dried tomato oil instead of plain olive oil.

Variations

• Shrimp Tuscan Pasta: Replace chicken with shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip chicken and add mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers.
• Spicy Tuscan Pasta: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne for heat.
• Bacon or Prosciutto: Add crisped bacon or thinly sliced prosciutto for added richness.
• Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap for a healthier or gluten-free option.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Freezing:

• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Cool completely, transfer to airtight freezer-safe containers, and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet with a little cream to restore texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot (for pasta)
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs and spatula
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

FAQ

Q1: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes! The sauce will be slightly lighter but still creamy.

Q2: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely — rotisserie chicken works great. Just slice and add it to the sauce in Step 4.

Q3: What kind of pasta works best?
Fettuccine, linguine, or penne hold the sauce beautifully.

Q4: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes — use coconut cream or almond milk with nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan.

Q5: How do I make it extra cheesy?
Add shredded mozzarella or cream cheese for a richer texture.

Conclusion

Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Creamy White Sauce is the epitome of Italian comfort food — creamy, savory, and irresistibly flavorful. It brings together tender chicken, earthy spinach, and the bold tang of sun-dried tomatoes in a luxuriously smooth sauce that hugs every bite of pasta.

It’s easy enough for weeknights, elegant enough for guests, and guaranteed to make you feel like you’re dining in the heart of Tuscany. A warm, rich, and satisfying meal you’ll want to make again and again.