Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta With Fresh Spinach Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a creamy Tuscan chicken pasta with fresh spinach that just hits the spot after a busy day. This recipe combines tender chicken, a luscious garlic cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and vibrant spinach, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again.

this Recipe

Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this creamy tuscan chicken pasta is simple to prepare and packed with flavor. Let’s dive into how you can easily whip this up with ingredients you probably already have at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor from garlic and sun-dried tomatoes
• Includes fresh spinach for a healthy, vibrant touch
• Quick stovetop preparation – ready in under 40 minutes
• Perfectly balanced with tender chicken and al dente pasta
• Great for weeknight dinners or meal prepping lunches

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy tuscan chicken pasta with fresh spinach come together beautifully.

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed, drained)
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 650 per serving

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta With Fresh Spinach

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add the Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and stir until cheese melts into the sauce.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add fresh spinach leaves. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
8. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for richer flavor and better texture.
• Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
• Reserve some pasta water before draining; if the sauce is too thick, add a splash to loosen it.
• Freshly grate Parmesan cheese for the best creamy texture and flavor.
• Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick, or omit if preferred.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover creamy tuscan chicken pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken upon cooling; simply stir in a little milk or water when reheating to restore creaminess.

This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works great for holding the creamy sauce, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti if preferred.

Is there a lighter version of this recipe?

Yes, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt, though the sauce will be less rich. Also, consider using chicken breast without skin and less oil.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can cook the pasta and chicken separately and combine everything with the sauce just before serving. The sauce is best made fresh for optimal creaminess.

What can I serve with creamy tuscan chicken pasta?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables pair well to balance the richness of the dish, along with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.