Indulge in the flavors of Tuscany with this delightful Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe. This dish combines succulent chicken breast, al dente pasta, and a creamy sauce enriched with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will transport your taste buds to the heart of Italy. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a side of garlic bread for an unforgettable meal.
Ingredients
– 2 chicken breasts
– 8 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains:
– Calories: 550
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fat: 30g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet.
4. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
5. Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
6. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
7. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
8. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
9. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
10. Add cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese; mix well before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version. Additionally, use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a more flavorful option. For a vegetarian twist, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
Serving and Pairings
This Tuscan Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with garlic bread and a fresh green salad. A glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the meal perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to maintain creaminess. Freezing is not recommended, as the sauce may separate.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent dryness.
– Don’t skip seasoning the chicken; it enhances flavor.
– Be careful not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
– Make sure to stir the sauce frequently to prevent burning.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Helpful Tips
– Marinate the chicken in Italian herbs for extra flavor.
– Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
– Use a non-stick skillet for easier cooking and cleanup.
– Fresh spinach can be substituted with kale or arugula.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Combine them just before serving to maintain freshness.
What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
You can use roasted red peppers or fresh cherry tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge and can be portioned out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Certainly! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can be added for more nutrition and flavor.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, the recipe is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes for a kick if desired.
Conclusion
This Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will impress your family and friends. Simple to prepare yet luxurious in taste, it’s a go-to dish for any occasion. Enjoy your culinary journey to Tuscany with every bite!
Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 8 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet.
- Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
- Add cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese; mix well before serving.