Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is your new weeknight hero. With tender seared chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach swimming in a rich Parmesan cream sauce—this easy pasta dish is both comforting and irresistibly flavorful. Even better, it’s made in just one skillet and comes together in under 30 minutes.
Thanks to the sun-dried tomatoes and Italian herbs, every bite tastes like a getaway to the countryside. It’s the perfect mix of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy, with fresh spinach for balance and a pop of color. Plus, it’s super versatile—try swapping penne for fettuccine or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Did you know Tuscan-style recipes draw their roots from rustic farm cooking in central Italy? This pasta is a modern twist on the classic—less fuss, more flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving a cozy bowl for yourself, Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta brings that restaurant feel right to your kitchen.
Recipe Yield: 4 servings
INGREDIENTS
12 oz penne pasta
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
3 cups baby spinach
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
2 cups heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sear the chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Season chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
3. Make the creamy sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up browned bits. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan. Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Add spinach and combine:
Stir in spinach and let it wilt, about 1 minute. Add the cooked pasta and return chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated and heated through.
5. Serve and enjoy:
Spoon pasta into bowls, top with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Use Thinly Sliced Chicken: Slicing the chicken thinly helps it cook quickly and evenly while staying juicy.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil Are Key: Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor and texture—they blend right into the sauce.
- Reserve Some Pasta Water: Add a splash to the sauce if it needs thinning or extra creaminess when tossing the pasta.
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