Savory Tuscan Chicken Pasta: Easy, Creamy Delight

Savory Tuscan chicken pasta has become my go-to weeknight meal whenever I crave something comforting and bursting with Italian flavors. I first tasted something like this at a little trattoria in Florence, and the rich, creamy sauce with tender chicken and sun-dried tomatoes was pure magic. Now, I’ve perfected my own version, a truly delicious Tuscan chicken pasta recipe that brings that rustic charm right into my kitchen. This Tuscan inspired chicken and pasta dish is surprisingly easy to whip up, and the aroma alone will transport you straight to the rolling hills of Tuscany. Get ready for a meal that feels both special and incredibly satisfying. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Savory Tuscan Chicken Pasta

This dish is a winner for so many reasons. Get ready to fall in love:

• Incredible Flavor: A perfect balance of savory chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce that screams authentic Italian comfort.
• Speedy Weeknight Meal: Despite its sophisticated taste, this is an easy Tuscan chicken pasta that comes together surprisingly fast.
• Surprisingly Lighter: My secret cottage cheese twist makes the sauce wonderfully creamy without being overly heavy, offering a healthier alternative.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses common pantry staples and affordable chicken, making it a fantastic option for a hearty family meal without breaking the bank.
• Family Approved: Even picky eaters will adore the comforting flavors and tender textures of this quick Tuscan chicken pasta.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to your favorite pasta shapes and even protein preferences.
• One-Pan Wonder: Most of the magic happens in a single skillet, minimizing cleanup.

Tuscan Chicken Pasta Ingredients

Gathering these Tuscan chicken pasta ingredients is the first step to a fantastic meal. You won’t believe how simple it is to create this rich flavor!

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces – I prefer thighs for extra moisture, but breasts work great too!
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for chicken)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta – choose your favorite shape!
• 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water) – essential for flavorful pasta.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sauce)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced – use fresh for the best aroma.
• 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and thinly sliced – these little gems bring so much savory depth to our Tuscan chicken pasta with sun-dried tomatoes.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a gentle kick.
• 2 cups chicken broth – low-sodium is best so you can control the salt.
• 1 cup heavy cream – this makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
• 1.5 cups full-fat cottage cheese – my secret weapon for an even creamier, slightly lighter sauce!
• 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped – this adds lovely color and nutrients to our Tuscan chicken pasta with spinach.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving – for that classic salty, nutty finish.
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish, optional)

How to Make Savory Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Making this delicious Tuscan chicken pasta recipe is easier than you think, and the result is pure comfort in a bowl!

1. Step 1: Start by patting your chicken pieces completely dry. Cut them into uniform 1-inch pieces. In a bowl, toss the chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Let it sit while you prep other ingredients.
2. Step 2: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the seasoned chicken in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if necessary). Sear the chicken until it’s beautifully golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Step 3: Reduce the skillet heat to medium. If your pan looks dry, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the finely diced onion and sauté until it softens and becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. The sweet aroma will start to fill your kitchen. Then, stir in the minced garlic and thinly sliced sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant – don’t let it burn!
4. Step 4: Sprinkle in the dried oregano and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat) and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let this mixture simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and deepen in flavor.
5. Step 5: Turn the heat down to low. Stir in the heavy cream until it’s incorporated. Now for the magic! Gently add the full-fat cottage cheese. Stir slowly and continuously until the cottage cheese melts into the sauce, creating a wonderfully smooth and creamy base. This is key to achieving that luscious texture in your creamy Tuscan chicken pasta.
6. Step 6: Add the roughly chopped fresh spinach to the sauce. Stir it in and let it wilt down, which should only take about 1-2 minutes. Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Step 7: While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add your 12 ounces of pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. Before draining, be sure to reserve about 1 cup of that starchy pasta water – it’s liquid gold for adjusting sauce consistency! Drain the pasta well.
8. Step 8: Add the drained pasta and the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the creamy Tuscan sauce. Toss everything together gently until the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated. If the sauce seems a little too thick for your liking, add a splash of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. This step ensures your one-pan Tuscan chicken pasta is perfectly saucy. Adjust any final seasonings if necessary.
9. Step 9: Serve this amazing skillet Tuscan chicken pasta immediately in warm bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!

Pro Tips for the Best Savory Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Want to elevate your Tuscan pasta game? Follow these insider tips for a truly memorable dish:

• Don’t skip searing the chicken: Getting a good golden-brown crust on the chicken adds so much depth of flavor. Cook in batches to avoid steaming!
• Use good quality sun-dried tomatoes: Oil-packed ones are best for this dish, as they’re more tender and flavorful.
• Taste and adjust seasoning: This is crucial! Your broth and Parmesan can vary in saltiness, so always taste before serving.
• Reserve pasta water: This starchy liquid is your best friend for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.

What’s the secret to perfect creamy Tuscan chicken pasta?

The secret lies in the combination of heavy cream and full-fat cottage cheese. It creates an unbelievably smooth and rich sauce without being overly decadent, giving you that perfect creamy Tuscan chicken pasta texture.

Can I make Tuscan chicken pasta ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and sauce components up to a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving for optimal texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Tuscan chicken pasta?

A common pitfall is overcrowding the pan when searing chicken, which leads to steaming instead of browning. Also, be careful not to burn the garlic; add it towards the end of sautéing the aromatics.

Best Ways to Serve Savory Tuscan Chicken Pasta

This hearty dish is a complete meal on its own, but serving it with a few simple additions can make it even more special. For a true taste of Italy, consider pairing your chicken pasta with Tuscan flavors alongside a crisp green salad. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. You could also serve it with some crusty garlic bread to sop up any extra sauce – because trust me, you’ll want to get every last drop!

Nutrition Facts for Savory Tuscan Chicken Pasta

This Savory Tuscan chicken pasta is a satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: 750
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 70g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 850mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Leftovers of this delicious Tuscan chicken pasta are a treat! Once your pasta has cooled down completely, transfer it into airtight containers. For the best quality, I recommend refrigerating your leftovers within two hours of cooking. It should keep well in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you happen to make a double batch and want to freeze some for later, that’s totally doable! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and pop them in the freezer for up to 3 months. This is a great way to ensure you always have a comforting meal ready to go.

When you’re ready to reheat, there are a couple of great options. For refrigerated portions, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if it seems a bit dry, until heated through. You can also microwave it, stirring halfway through, until hot. Frozen portions should be thawed overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using either of these methods. This ensures your storage-related secondary keyword for storing and reheating is covered!

Frequently Asked Questions About Savory Tuscan Chicken Pasta

What is Tuscan chicken pasta?

Tuscan chicken pasta is a dish that captures the rustic, hearty flavors of Tuscany, Italy. It typically features tender chicken, pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce often enhanced with ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, and herbs. My recipe adds a delightful twist with cottage cheese for extra creaminess!

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While fettuccine or penne are classic choices, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape. Short pasta like rotini or farfalle works wonderfully, as does linguine or spaghetti. Just ensure you cook it al dente and reserve some pasta water to help achieve the perfect sauce consistency.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you love a bit of heat, you can easily make this Tuscan chicken pasta spicier. I’ve included red pepper flakes as optional, but feel free to increase the amount. You could also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to the finished sauce for an extra kick.

Is this recipe truly authentic Tuscan chicken pasta?

While this recipe is inspired by the robust flavors found in Tuscany, it’s an Italian-American adaptation designed for home cooks. An authentic Tuscan chicken pasta might vary, but this version captures the essence with its creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, offering a delicious taste of the region.

Variations of Tuscan Chicken Pasta You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, don’t be afraid to get creative with your Savory Tuscan Chicken Pasta! Here are a few ideas to inspire your next meal:

• Hearty Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake: For a comforting, casserole-style meal, assemble the cooked pasta, creamy sauce, chicken, and spinach in a baking dish. Top with extra Parmesan and breadcrumbs, then bake until bubbly and golden for a truly hearty Tuscan chicken pasta dish.
• One-Pan Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Sausage: Swap out the chicken for spicy Italian sausage. Brown the sausage first, then proceed with the recipe, using the rendered fat for extra flavor. It’s a fantastic way to create a different, equally delicious pasta.
• Restaurant-Style Tuscan Chicken Pasta: Elevate your dish by using fresh fettuccine pasta and adding a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan before the chicken broth. This adds an extra layer of complexity, making it feel like a true restaurant-style Tuscan chicken pasta.
• Lighter Tuscan Chicken Pasta: For a healthier twist, use whole wheat pasta and opt for half heavy cream and half milk in the sauce. You can also use chicken breast and reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese.

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