This Tuscan Chicken Pasta is similar to my Creamy Chicken Spaghetti recipe but with the addition of Tuscan seasoning (Italian seasoning).

This is a super creamy dish packed with tasty ingredients, perfect for people who love pasta and chicken flavors. Plus, the process of making this Tuscan Chicken Pasta is incredibly easy!

For the pasta, you can use any shape you love. I also added spinach and sun-dried tomatoes to bring a cozy, herby touch, which made the dish even more interesting. To be honest, the taste was amazing, and the whole family loved it.

What is Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a creamy dish from Italy. It has soft chicken, tasty sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and pasta all mixed in a rich, cheesy garlic sauce. It’s like a little trip to Italy right at your dinner table.

Why You Should Try Tuscan Chicken Pasta

If you want a dish that’s cozy and fancy, Tuscan Chicken Pasta is perfect! It’s simple to make but looks and tastes special. The tender chicken, tasty sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce make every bite so yummy. It’s a great meal that feels extra special for your family!

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts (cut into strips or bite-sized pieces)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (sliced)
2 cups fresh spinach
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 pound penne or fettuccine pasta
Salt and pepper

How to Make Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.

Combine the Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes before adding the Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.

Add the Veggies

Toss in the spinach and stir until it wilts, about 1 minute. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if desired.

Bring It All Together

Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well combined.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large pot
Large skillet
Wooden spoon or spatula
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Colander

Helpful Tips!

If you’re short on time, using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. It’s already cooked, so all you need to do is shred it and toss it into the sauce. This saves you the step of cooking the chicken, cutting down your overall prep time. It also adds extra flavor to your dish!
While spinach and sun-dried tomatoes are the traditional veggies used in Tuscan Chicken Pasta, you can easily make this dish your own. Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for a more vibrant, colorful meal. Just sauté them with the garlic for a few minutes before adding the cream. This not only boosts the flavor but also increases the nutritional value!
If you prefer a lighter version of the dish, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half. The sauce won’t be as rich, but it will still have a nice creamy texture. You can also use milk, but it might result in a thinner sauce. Consider adding a tablespoon of flour to help thicken the sauce if you opt for milk.

How to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy. Avoid microwaving, as it may dry out the sauce.

What to Serve with Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

I love to pair my Tuscan Chicken Pasta with A slice of Tuscan Garlic Bread, it is a must-have for a true Italian touch, it’s perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, and my husband absolutely loves it this way, You can also serve it with a crisp Caesar salad or a fresh Caprese salad. Steamed or roasted broccoli makes a healthy addition, while a bowl of hearty minestrone soup brings even more Italian flair.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but the sauce won’t be as thick and rich. Consider adding a bit of cornstarch for thickening.

What protein alternatives can I use?

Shrimp or tofu are great substitutes for chicken.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

Fresh cherry tomatoes can be sautéed as a replacement.

Conclusion

Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a crowd-pleaser that brings the flavors of Italy to your dinner table. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but elegant enough for a special occasion. Try it today, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family! Subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips.