Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Inspiration

I love making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta when I want a satisfying meal that tastes gourmet but doesn't take all day to prepare. The rich flavor of sun-dried tomatoes and the creaminess of the sauce transform simple chicken and pasta into a dish that's perfect for hosting or for a cozy night in. It only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it our go-to recipe for busy weeknights, and the aroma that fills the kitchen is simply irresistible.

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:56:49.041Z

As I perfected my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, I discovered the key was to add the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic at just the right moment. Doing so allows their flavors to infuse the cream sauce, creating a deliciously rich base that's hard to resist. The spinach adds not just flavor but a lovely pop of color – it’s pleasing to the eye as well as the palate.

Another tip I found invaluable is to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of the pre-packaged kind. The difference in texture and flavor is astonishing; it melts beautifully into the sauce, lending a velvety texture that elevates the entire dish. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Lush creamy sauce that clings perfectly to each piece of pasta
Bursting with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach
A quick recipe that's fancy enough for date night

Ingredient Insights

The creamy sauce is the star of this dish, and heavy cream is essential for achieving that rich mouthfeel. It is important to use high-quality heavy cream, as it contributes to a luscious texture that balances perfectly with the tangy sun-dried tomatoes. For a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half, but keep in mind the sauce will be less creamy and might require a bit of cheese to compensate for the richness.

Sun-dried tomatoes add both complexity and depth to the flavor profile. Look for tomatoes that are packed in oil, as they tend to be more tender and flavorful compared to the dried variety. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with fresh tomatoes, but be aware that they will need to be sautéed longer to develop a similar intensity.

Cooking Techniques

When cooking the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes after slicing to retain juices. This simple technique enhances the moisture of the chicken when combined with the pasta, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful. Additionally, using a meat thermometer can help avoid overcooking; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for perfectly juicy chicken.

For the sauce, remember to sauté the garlic just until fragrant—about one minute. Overcooking garlic can lead to bitterness that can ruin the dish's balance. Once you add the heavy cream, stir frequently to prevent it from sticking to the skillet, and bring it to a gentle simmer; higher heat could cause it to separate, resulting in a less appealing texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to whip up a delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta.

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Be sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta.

Cook the Pasta

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

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and cook for about 7-8 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove from skillet and slice.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and bring to a simmer. Stir in the spinach until wilted.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Mix in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm.

Enjoy your creamy, delicious pasta creation!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian seasoning before cooking. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp for a different twist.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp garden salad and a side of garlic bread. The freshness of greens cuts through the richness of the dish, while the bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce. For an elegant touch, consider serving with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or lemon zest for brightness.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can easily customize this dish by adding sautéed mushrooms or artichokes for an added layer of flavor. Grilled shrimp or salmon can also serve as protein alternatives, making this pasta versatile for various dietary preferences.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet on medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to adjust the sauce's consistency if it thickens too much in the fridge.

You can freeze the pasta, but it's best to do so without the spinach and cream sauce. Both can be added fresh when you reheat it. The cooked chicken and pasta can be frozen separately for up to three months—just make sure to cool them completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with any pasta shape you like, such as fettuccine or spaghetti.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients a day in advance and cook just before serving.

→ Can I freeze the pasta?

Freezing is not recommended as the creamy sauce may separate when reheated.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Certainly! You can use mushrooms or tofu in place of chicken for a vegetarian version.