Hello, pasta lovers! If you’re searching for a quick yet indulgent meal that brings a touch of Italy to your dinner table, look no further than this delicious Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe. This dish is packed with juicy chicken, flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich creamy sauce that will have you coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into how you can create this Tuscan delight in your own kitchen!
Introduction
The Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe is a comforting, creamy dish inspired by the beautiful flavors of Tuscany. Known for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors, Tuscan cuisine offers a perfect blend of simplicity and elegance. This version of Tuscan Chicken Pasta features seasoned chicken chunks, cooked to perfection, with a rich sauce made from cream, parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or something special for guests, this Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a must-try for fans of Italian dishes and creamy comfort foods alike.
Check out these other delightful recipes to inspire your Italian nights: Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix and Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread.
Ingredients for Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delectable dish:
Pasta:
- 300g (10.5 oz) pasta shapes (such as rigatoni)
For the Chicken:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 chicken breasts (approx. 525g/1.1lbs), chopped into bite-size chunks
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 1.5 tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
For the Sauce:
- 1 onion, peeled and sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
- 160g (1 cup) sun-dried tomatoes, preferably the bright red variety
- 1 red bell pepper, deseeded and sliced
- 2 tbsp tomato puree (tomato paste)
- 90 ml (1/3 cup) white wine
- 240 ml (1 cup) chicken stock
- 90 ml (1/3 cup) double (heavy) cream
- 50g (1/2 cup) parmesan cheese, grated
- 90g (3 packed cups) fresh baby spinach
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley, for garnish
Optional Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-sensitive alternative.
How to Make Tuscan Chicken Pasta – Step by Step
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by adding the pasta to a large pot of salted boiling water. Follow the package instructions (usually 10-12 minutes), then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken chunks and sprinkle with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, paprika, and garlic powder. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned.
Step 3: Saute the Vegetables
Add the sliced onion to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Then, add the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and bell pepper. Stir in the tomato puree and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Liquids
Pour in the white wine and allow it to bubble for about 2 minutes to let the alcohol evaporate. Then, add the chicken stock, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Stir in the cooked pasta, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach. Continue to cook for 2 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the sauce to thicken.
Step 6: Serve
Top your Tuscan Chicken Pasta with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot!
Helpful Tips for Tuscan Chicken Pasta
- Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: While dried herbs are more convenient, using fresh oregano and thyme can enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Substitute Wine: If you don’t have white wine, chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice makes a good replacement.
- Customizable Protein: If you prefer, you can swap out the chicken for shrimp or turkey for a different take on this Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe.
Cooking Tips for the Best Tuscan Chicken Pasta
To make the best Tuscan Chicken Pasta, consider these tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, spinach, and parmesan elevate the flavors in the sauce.
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Cook your pasta al dente, so it retains its texture after mixing with the sauce.
- Choose the Right Pan: A large, heavy-bottomed pan distributes heat evenly and helps the sauce come together smoothly.
Serving Suggestions for Tuscan Chicken Pasta
This Tuscan Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with a light salad like Greek Lentil Salad, or you could complement the dish with a crusty garlic bread. For drinks, a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a sparkling lemonade adds a refreshing touch.
Nutritional Information
This Tuscan Chicken Pasta is rich in protein from the chicken and packed with nutrients from the spinach. The sun-dried tomatoes offer a healthy dose of antioxidants.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Vitamin C: 60% DV
- Calcium: 20% DV
Storage and Leftovers for Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce. Avoid microwaving as it may cause the sauce to separate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Tuscan Chicken Pasta
1. Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with penne, fettuccine, or any pasta shape that holds sauce.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
3. What can I substitute for cream?
You can substitute coconut milk or a blend of cream cheese and milk for a lighter version.
4. Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes, simply replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms and additional vegetables like zucchini.
Related Recipes for Tuscan Chicken Pasta Lovers
Conclusion
Now that you’ve learned how to make this Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe, it’s time to try it out! I’m sure you and your family will love the creamy, rich flavors and the ease of preparation. Let me know in the comments how your dish turned out or if you added your own twist! Happy cooking!
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Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe: Creamy & Flavorful Dinner
Description
Hello, pasta lovers! If you’re searching for a quick yet indulgent meal that brings a touch of Italy to your dinner table, look no further than this delicious Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe. This dish is packed with juicy chicken, flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich creamy sauce that will have you coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into how you can create this Tuscan delight in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 300g (10.5 oz) pasta shapes (such as rigatoni)
For the Chicken:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 chicken breasts (approx. 525g/1.1lbs), chopped into bite-size chunks
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 1.5 tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
For the Sauce:
- 1 onion, peeled and sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
- 160g (1 cup) sun-dried tomatoes, preferably the bright red variety
- 1 red bell pepper, deseeded and sliced
- 2 tbsp tomato puree (tomato paste)
- 90 ml (1/3 cup) white wine
- 240 ml (1 cup) chicken stock
- 90 ml (1/3 cup) double (heavy) cream
- 50g (1/2 cup) parmesan cheese, grated
- 90g (3 packed cups) fresh baby spinach
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley, for garnish
Optional Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-sensitive alternative.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by adding the pasta to a large pot of salted boiling water. Follow the package instructions (usually 10-12 minutes), then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken chunks and sprinkle with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, paprika, and garlic powder. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned.
Step 3: Saute the Vegetables
Add the sliced onion to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Then, add the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and bell pepper. Stir in the tomato puree and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Liquids
Pour in the white wine and allow it to bubble for about 2 minutes to let the alcohol evaporate. Then, add the chicken stock, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Stir in the cooked pasta, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach. Continue to cook for 2 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the sauce to thicken.
Step 6: Serve
Top your Tuscan Chicken Pasta with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: While dried herbs are more convenient, using fresh oregano and thyme can enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Substitute Wine: If you don’t have white wine, chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice makes a good replacement.
- Customizable Protein: If you prefer, you can swap out the chicken for shrimp or turkey for a different take on this Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe.
