If you’re looking for a remarkable meal that brings together creamy, savory, and vibrant flavors all in one dish, you absolutely must try this One-Pan Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s a delightful combination of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta swimming in a luscious, cheesy sauce – all made effortlessly in a single pan. The best part? Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor make this recipe a fast favorite for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This One-Pan Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe relies on simple, fresh ingredients that each play a vital role in building incredible depth and richness. From the savory chicken to the sweet sun-dried tomatoes and creamy Parmesan, every component shines through beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a flavorful base for sautéing the chicken and veggies with a subtle richness.
- 1 ½ pounds chicken breasts: The protein star of the dish, becoming juicy and golden brown when cooked right.
- 3 teaspoons kosher salt (divided): Enhances every ingredient’s natural flavor and seasons the dish perfectly throughout cooking.
- 4 ounces sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped): Adds bursts of tangy sweetness and a chewy texture that elevate the sauce.
- 5 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with its aromatic, slightly spicy warmth that ties flavors together.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Creates the cooking liquid for the pasta and deepens the savory base of the sauce.
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously smooth, rich, and comforting in every bite.
- 8 ounces penne pasta: Ideal short pasta that soaks up the sauce perfectly, though any short pasta will do.
- 4 ounces spinach: Adds a fresh, earthy color and nutrition while wilting tenderly into the pasta.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for that irresistible cheesy finish with umami depth.
- ¼ cup basil (torn for garnish): Offers a fresh herbal brightness and visually stunning pop of green on top.
How to Make One-Pan Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Start by heating olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts with a portion of the kosher salt and cook them for about 4 to 5 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful golden crust. This step locks in juices and creates that lovely sear that adds incredible flavor. Once done, set the chicken aside to rest – you’ll slice it up later.
Step 2: Build Aromatic Flavor with Tomatoes and Garlic
Using the same pan, toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic. Cook for just a minute or so on medium-low heat – this allows the garlic to soften and release its fragrance gently without burning. The sun-dried tomatoes start to mingle with the garlic, creating an enticing aroma that forms the foundation of our sauce.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Cooking Liquid
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream along with the remaining kosher salt, stirring everything together to combine. Bringing this mixture to a gentle boil brings the flavors to life and prepares a luscious base for the pasta to cook in.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta Right in the Sauce
Add uncooked penne pasta straight into your creamy broth mixture. Lower the heat, cover the pan, and let the pasta cook for 11 to 12 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking and ensure it cooks evenly, soaking up all those delicious flavors around it.
Step 5: Slice the Chicken for Bite-Sized Goodness
While the pasta cooks, cut your rested chicken breasts into ½ inch thick slices, then halve those slices to create perfectly bite-sized pieces. This makes every forkful easy to enjoy alongside the creamy pasta.
Step 6: Combine and Finish the Dish
Once the pasta is tender, turn the heat down to low and add the cut chicken, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese back into the pan. Toss everything together gently and cook for 2 to 3 minutes more until the chicken heats through, the spinach wilts, and the sauce thickens to a dreamy consistency.
Step 7: Serve with Fresh Basil and Extra Parmesan
Dish out your comforting One-Pan Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe, then sprinkle torn basil leaves and extra Parmesan over each serving to add fresh herbal notes and a nice visual appeal. Grab a fork, and savor every creamy, flavorful bite!
How to Serve One-Pan Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To really elevate the dish, finishing touches like freshly torn basil and a generous dusting of Parmesan cheese bring vibrant color and extra flavor that complement the creamy pasta perfectly. A drizzle of good olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add an exciting twist too.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with light and fresh side dishes like a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. These sides balance the richness while enhancing the overall meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For guests or special occasions, consider serving the pasta family-style in the skillet it was cooked in for a rustic feel. Alternatively, plate it in shallow bowls topped with extra basil and Parmesan for an elegant presentation that invites you to dive right in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld even more, making it just as delightful when reheated. Just be aware the spinach may wilt further, which some find even more comforting.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, though cream-based pastas can change texture slightly when thawed. Freeze portions in sealed containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back creaminess.
Reheating
Reheat on medium-low in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the pasta from drying out. Adding a little extra chicken broth or cream as you warm it up helps restore the luscious sauce texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add a slightly richer flavor and stay tender, making them a great alternative for this recipe. Just adjust cooking time as needed until fully cooked through.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half mixed with a bit of cream cheese or use coconut milk for a dairy-free version, though the flavor and texture will vary slightly from the original creamy sauce.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to swap penne with other short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle. Just be mindful that cooking times might vary slightly, so keep an eye on doneness.
What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
You can substitute with roasted red peppers or even sun-dried tomato pesto to add vibrant flavor, but the unique chewyness and concentrated taste of sun-dried tomatoes are hard to exactly replicate.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the garlic and tomato sauté step or serve with a drizzle of hot chili oil to give the creamy pasta a nice subtle kick without overwhelming other flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the One-Pan Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe that turns an ordinary dinner into a memorable occasion. It’s creamy, flavorful, and wonderfully straightforward to make, which means you get to enjoy the deliciousness without any fuss. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try soon and discover why it’s become such a cherished favorite in my kitchen and many others. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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One-Pan Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tuscan / Italian
Description
This One-Pan Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dinner that combines tender chicken breasts with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, spinach, and Parmesan cheese all cooked together with penne pasta in a rich Tuscan-inspired sauce. Made in one skillet for easy cleanup, this dish offers a comforting and impressive meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 ½ pounds chicken breasts
- 3 teaspoons kosher salt (divided, or more to taste)
Vegetables and Flavorings
- 4 ounces sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 ounces spinach
- ¼ cup basil (torn for garnish)
Dairy
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
Pantry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 8 ounces penne pasta (or any short pasta)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large, deep skillet or pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with 1 teaspoon kosher salt on both sides. Cook the chicken in the hot pan until golden brown on each side, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic. Cook over medium-low heat for 1 minute, stirring often and taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and 2 teaspoons kosher salt. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook Pasta: Add the uncooked penne pasta to the pan, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and cook for 11-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
- Slice Chicken: While the pasta cooks, cut the cooked chicken breasts into ½-inch slices, then halve those slices again to create bite-sized pieces.
- Combine and Finish: Turn the heat to low, add the sliced chicken, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese to the pan. Toss everything to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the pasta garnished with torn fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese as desired. Enjoy your delicious, creamy Tuscan chicken pasta!
Notes
- Use any short pasta if penne is not available, such as rigatoni or fusilli.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; check for al dente texture as cooking times may vary slightly.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- To add extra flavor, sprinkle red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning when sautéing garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
