Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces fettuccine pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup fresh spinach; 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Red pepper flakes to taste

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely love making creamy Tuscan chicken pasta because it combines succulent chicken, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes with a rich, flavorful sauce. This dish has quickly become a family favorite in our house, not only for its incredible taste but also because it's surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, I can create a comforting meal that feels gourmet. Each bite is a delightful experience that reminds me of my favorite Italian restaurants, and it’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in.

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:48:44.041Z

Preparing this creamy Tuscan chicken pasta was a delightful kitchen adventure! I decided to experiment with fresh ingredients like spinach, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes, which brought a burst of flavor to the creamy sauce. As I cooked, I found that adding a splash of white wine really elevated the dish, making it taste even more refined.

What I love most about this recipe is how adaptable it is. If I have leftover vegetables or different types of pasta in my pantry, they can easily be incorporated into the dish without sacrificing flavor. This hearty meal satisfies my family's comfort food cravings while allowing for creativity in cooking.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce that envelops the pasta
Bursting with fresh flavors from spinach and sun-dried tomatoes
Quick and easy to make for a weeknight dinner

Selecting the Right Ingredients

The choice of pasta can greatly affect the overall texture of your creamy Tuscan chicken pasta. While fettuccine is traditional, you can also use penne or rigatoni for a different bite. I recommend checking the package for cooking times and aiming for al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce. If you’re gluten-free, consider using gluten-free pasta, which can mimic the original texture well when cooked properly.

Fresh spinach contributes not only to the flavor but also enhances the color of the dish. When you add the spinach to the hot sauce, it wilts quickly within a couple of minutes, maintaining its vibrant color and nutrient profile. Avoid using frozen spinach; while it can be convenient, it may release excess water, diluting the sauce’s richness.

Enhancing the Sauce

The creamy sauce is the heart of this dish, and using heavy cream creates a silky mouthfeel that perfectly complements the pasta. If you're looking to reduce calories, consider substituting half of the heavy cream with low-fat Greek yogurt for added tang without sacrificing creaminess. Just be careful not to boil the sauce after adding the yogurt, or it may curdle.

Italian seasoning plays a crucial role in rounding out the dish. If you don’t have it on hand, you can mix equal parts of dried basil, oregano, and thyme, which are typically the backbone of Italian flavors. Additionally, adding a little lemon zest at the end can introduce a bright contrast that elevates the overall taste.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 ounces fettuccine pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Sauce

3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup fresh spinach
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Red pepper flakes to taste

Combine all the ingredients for a delicious, hearty dish!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 7-8 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and slice.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth, followed by heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and simmer for 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Mix in the cooked pasta and sliced chicken, tossing to coat everything in the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan if desired!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in Italian herbs before searing. You can also substitute half-and-half for a lighter version of the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

For an impressive plating, consider serving your creamy Tuscan chicken pasta in shallow bowls. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color. A drizzle of olive oil just before serving not only enhances the flavor but also adds glossiness to the dish.

Pair this dish with a simple side salad of mixed greens and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta. A glass of light white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors beautifully and makes it a perfect option for entertaining guests.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, cook the pasta and chicken, and prepare the sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply warm the sauce on the stovetop and toss with the cooked ingredients; avoid microwaving directly to prevent separation or sogginess.

Leftovers can be enjoyed for up to three days when stored properly. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or extra cream to loosen the sauce, and stir until everything is warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as it can alter the texture of the sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shape, such as penne or spaghetti.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply choose gluten-free pasta, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and keep it refrigerated, but it's best to cook the pasta fresh before serving for optimal texture.

→ What can I serve with the creamy Tuscan chicken pasta?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.