Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 2 chicken breasts, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 cup baby spinach; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Inspiration

I love making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta because it's the perfect combination of rich flavors and comforting textures that feels gourmet yet easy to prepare. The creamy sauce envelops the tender chicken and pasta, while the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach provide an incredible burst of color and freshness. This dish has quickly become a favorite in our household, as it impresses guests and satisfies family cravings alike. I can't wait for you to try this delightful recipe that brings a touch of Italy to your dinner table!

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:44:52.007Z

As I first crafted this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, I experimented with building layers of flavor. The rich cream base harmonizes beautifully with garlic and Parmesan, giving the dish a luxurious feel. Using fresh ingredients really makes a difference, and I noticed that adding the spinach at the end keeps it vibrant and tender.

One of my favorite tips is to toast the sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil before adding them to the sauce. This step enhances their sweetness and depth, creating a wonderful balance with the savory elements. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Luxurious creamy sauce that clings to every noodle
Burst of flavor from sun-dried tomatoes and spinach
Simple enough for weeknights, elegant enough for guests

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Pasta

Cooking the penne pasta to the right texture is crucial for this dish. I recommend checking for al dente at the lower end of the cooking time listed on the package. This ensures the pasta has a slight bite, which will hold up better when combined with the creamy sauce. Don't forget to salt the boiling water generously; it not only seasons the pasta but also enhances the overall flavor of your dish.

After draining the pasta, it’s beneficial to toss it with a pinch of olive oil. This prevents the noodles from sticking together while you prepare the sauce. If you find that your pasta is overcooked, a quick rinse under cold water can help stop the cooking process—it’s a handy trick if you’re in a hurry!

Choosing the Right Chicken

For this recipe, using boneless, skinless chicken breasts is ideal due to their quick cooking time and tender texture. When slicing the chicken, aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. If time allows, marinating the chicken in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for about 30 minutes can deepen the flavor significantly.

If you prefer a heartier texture or want to save time, shredded rotisserie chicken can be used instead. Simply add it to the skillet after the garlic sautés, then stir in the cream and let it heat through, which will save about 10 minutes of prep time.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is excellent for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, the cream sauce may thicken, so when reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or additional cream to restore the creamy consistency. Heat gently in a skillet over low-medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

If you want to freeze this dish, I recommend not adding the spinach until reheating. This will help maintain its vibrant color and texture. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stove, following the same process for reheating involving added liquid to bring back the dish’s creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful meal:

Main Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
2 chicken breasts, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 cup baby spinach
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking for a smooth process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy pasta dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Make the Sauce

Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.

Combine Everything

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. Mix in the cooked pasta until everything is well combined and heated through.

Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious meal!

Don't forget to pair this dish with a nice salad or bread!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lighter version of this pasta, consider substituting half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt. It provides creaminess and a slight tang without the extra calories. Additionally, for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free penne pasta, which cooks similarly and maintains the integrity of the dish.

Vegans can swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms and replace cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream. Nutritional yeast can be added in place of Parmesan for that cheesy flavor without dairy. These alternatives will keep the meal rich while accommodating different dietary needs.

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the flavor profile of your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, consider adding Italian seasoning like oregano, thyme, or basil when cooking the chicken. A pinch of red pepper flakes brings a gentle heat that balances the richness of the sauce beautifully. For a hint of brightness, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can really make the flavors pop.

Experiment with adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for extra color and nutrition. Simply sauté them alongside the garlic, ensuring they’re tender before adding the cream. This not only boosts flavor but also increases the health benefits of this delightful meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with a simple side salad topped with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad provides a nice contrast to the rich pasta and keeps the meal balanced. Garlic bread also makes an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce on your plate.

If you’re hosting guests, consider garnishing the dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil, along with extra grated Parmesan on top. Not only does this enhance the presentation, but it also adds a fresh burst of flavor right before serving. Your guests will feel like they’re dining in an Italian bistro!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine or farfalle.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative, but the sauce might be less rich.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Certainly! You can replace the chicken with grilled vegetables or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.