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Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe: Creamy & Flavorful Dinner

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

Scale

 

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!

Notes

  • 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.