Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz (225g) fettuccine pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup spinach, fresh; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; Chopped parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Fast Dinner Classics

I absolutely love making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, especially on busy weeknights when I want something delicious and satisfying without too much hassle. The blend of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a luscious cream sauce always hits the spot. Plus, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, allowing me to enjoy a homemade meal without spending all evening in the kitchen. This dish quickly became a family favorite, and we often customize it with extra veggies or a sprinkle of cheese to elevate the flavors.

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:37:37.223Z

When I first made Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, I was thrilled with how quickly and effortlessly it came together. The key is to start with well-seasoned chicken, as this builds a strong base for flavor in the dish. I remember thinking that the creamy sauce made from cream, garlic, and Parmesan was a total game changer!

One tip that really enhanced the experience was adding the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes at the last moment. This not only brightens the flavor but also gives the dish a beautiful pop of color. Each bite is a perfect balance of creaminess and vibrant ingredients, making it a comfort food I crave often.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce infused with garlic and sun-dried tomatoes
Perfectly cooked chicken that remains juicy and tender
Customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins

Cooking Chicken to Perfection

Cooking the chicken breast properly is crucial for this dish. Slicing the chicken into even pieces ensures that it cooks uniformly, remaining juicy without drying out. When sautéing, look for a golden brown color on the chicken, which should take about 6-8 minutes over medium heat. If you notice the chicken is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. Letting the chicken rest before adding it back into the sauce allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing its tenderness.

For an added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes in olive oil, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice. This not only infuses the chicken with additional flavor but also helps maintain moisture during cooking. If you’re using leftovers or pre-cooked chicken, ensure to warm it through gently in the sauce to keep it from becoming tough.

The Creamy Sauce Magic

The creamy sauce forms the heart of this dish, binding all ingredients together with its rich texture. Using heavy cream is essential for achieving that luxurious mouthfeel and prevents the sauce from separating. Stir the Parmesan cheese in gradually while keeping the heat low; this helps it melt evenly, resulting in a smooth sauce without clumps. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half, but expect a less creamy consistency.

To elevate the flavors of the sauce, you might incorporate herbs such as thyme or basil during cooking. Fresh herbs pair beautifully with the chicken and sun-dried tomatoes. Consider sautéing them briefly with the garlic for maximum flavor release. Adjusting seasoning with freshly cracked black pepper and a touch of salt after adding the cream allows for a more personalized taste, ensuring the sauce perfectly complements the chicken.

Perfecting the Pasta

Choosing the right pasta can make or break this dish. Fettuccine is favored here due to its ability to hold onto the creamy sauce. When boiling the pasta, aim for 'al dente'; it should have a slight bite to it, as it will continue to cook when combined with the sauce. Cooking fettuccine typically requires 8-10 minutes; taste test it a minute or two before the recommended time.

After draining the pasta, be sure to toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking while you finish the dish. If you're in a time crunch, you can also use store-bought rotisserie chicken and cook the fettuccine simultaneously to speed up the process. Leftover pasta can be stored for up to three days in the fridge, but reheating it in a skillet with a splash of cream will salvage the sauce's consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful meal:

Ingredients

8 oz (225g) fettuccine pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb (450g) chicken breast, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup spinach, fresh
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken breast with salt and pepper and add to the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked chicken, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is well combined. Gently toss in the cooked fettuccine and coat evenly with the sauce.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately for a delightful meal!

Pro Tips

For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, or add some cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.

Substitutions and Dietary Adjustments

This recipe is quite adaptable, allowing for a variety of substitutions. For a dairy-free version, consider using coconut milk or a cashew cream instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can be added for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. If you're looking to add protein, shrimp or tofu can be great alternatives to chicken, just ensure they are cooked through before mixing them into the sauce.

When it comes to vegetables, feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. They should be sautéed in the skillet before adding the garlic to ensure they cook down adequately and blend seamlessly with the sauce. Be mindful of cooking times, as each vegetable will have its ideal sautéing duration to achieve tenderness without losing their shape.

Serving Suggestions and Pairing

To serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, consider pairing it with a simple arugula salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. A crusty baguette on the side can also be delightful for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate. For those who enjoy a little heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish further.

If you’re planning to serve this at a gathering, consider doubling the recipe for a crowd-friendly option. It holds well when kept warm in a slow cooker on low, allowing guests to serve themselves. Just be sure to add a splash of cream when keeping it warm to prevent the sauce from thickening too much.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you love will work, such as penne or rigatoni.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and combine it with the pasta just before serving.