Hello, fellow food lover! If you’re anything like me, you appreciate a delicious, hearty meal that doesn’t take forever to make. That’s why I’m excited to share my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe with you. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s bursting with rich Italian flavors and is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s easy to clean up—just one pot means less hassle! Trust me, you’re going to fall in love with this creamy, comforting dish!
Nutritional Benefits
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is not only delicious, but it also packs a nutritional punch! The chicken provides lean protein which is essential for building and repairing muscles. The spinach adds a touch of healthy greens filled with iron, calcium, and vitamins. Plus, tomatoes are great for hydration and are rich in antioxidants. So, while you enjoy this tasty meal, you’re also treating your body to some nourishing goodness!
Adaptable Variations to Make
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or mushrooms for a veggie-packed option.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use a plant-based cream like coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of cheese for the creaminess without dairy.
- Pasta Preference: Feel free to use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta to fit your dietary needs!
Easy Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream (or any alternative cream you prefer)
- 2 cups pasta (penne or fettuccine works great)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Next, toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they soften.
- Pour in the heavy cream and mix well. Add the pasta to the pot, along with enough water to cover the pasta. Bring it to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened.
- Finally, stir in the fresh spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, and enjoy!
Practical Tips
- To save time, you can prep the chicken and chop the vegetables ahead of time—everything can be combined quickly during cooking!
- If you like a little spice, add crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- Leftovers? Store your pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or microwave!
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to cook this delightful dish:
- A large pot for cooking the pasta and sauce
- A cutting board and knife for chopping ingredients
- A mixing spoon or spatula for stirring
- A measuring cup for liquids
- A serving dish for your delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes! Just thaw it before cooking for even cooking throughout.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream? You might try half-and-half, Greek yogurt, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.
- How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? It should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Can I make this in advance? The dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Then just cook the pasta when you are ready to enjoy your meal!
- Is it okay to use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you like—just adjust the cooking time as needed.
So, are you ready to whip up this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta? I’d love to see your creations! Share your photos and let me know how much you enjoyed it! Also, don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for more mouthwatering recipes that will brighten up your dinner table!
