Description
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate dish for anyone craving a delightful meal that can be whipped up quickly. Busy weeknights can often lead to the temptation of takeout, but this hearty recipe brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen in just 30 minutes! The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables combine to create a comforting dish that’s guaranteed to impress your family and friends without sacrificing valuable time. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a scrumptious dinner on the table that’s ready to enjoy.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounce penne pasta
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cup fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water and add the penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside. Don’t forget to save a small cup of pasta water, it can be a lifesaver for adjusting your sauce later!
- Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Add Garlic & Tomatoes: Utilizing the same skillet, add minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté them for approximately 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and become fragrant. This step builds those foundational flavors crucial for your creamy sauce.
- Stir in Spinach: Next, toss in your fresh spinach. Cook it for about one minute or until merely wilted. The vibrant green color adds not only a visual appeal but also a nutritious punch!
- Make Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, then sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir the mixture well until everything is combined and the sauce has thickened to a luscious, creamy consistency.
- Combine Chicken & Pasta: Slice your rested chicken and return it to the skillet. Add the cooked penne pasta, tossing everything together until the chicken and pasta are perfectly coated with the creamy sauce. If you find the sauce too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired creaminess.
- Serve & Garnish: Plate your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta and garnish with fresh basil. It’s high time to enjoy your quick and delicious meal!
Notes
You can substitute fresh spinach with kale or arugula if you prefer. If you’re looking to adapt for dietary restrictions, feel free to replace the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg