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Creamy One-Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Creamy One-Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta - featured image

A quick and easy one-pot pasta dish featuring tender chicken, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy Parmesan sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil recommended)
  • 3 cups fresh baby spinach, loosely packed
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (600 ml)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
  • 8 ounces penne pasta (uncooked)
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme mix)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, a pinch)

Instructions

  1. Slice the chicken breasts into 1-inch bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and half the dried Italian herbs.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until golden on all sides but not fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. Lower heat to medium. Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pan. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add uncooked penne pasta, spreading evenly. Cover with lid and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. When pasta is nearly tender but still firm, stir chicken back in along with fresh spinach. Cover and cook for another 3-4 minutes until spinach wilts and chicken is cooked through.
  6. Reduce heat to low. Pour in heavy cream and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture. Stir gently until cheese melts and sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if available.

Notes

If sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen. If too thin, simmer uncovered briefly. Stir pasta occasionally to prevent sticking. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor. For gluten-free, substitute pasta with gluten-free variety. For dairy-free, use coconut or cashew cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot pasta, Tuscan chicken pasta, creamy chicken pasta, easy dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food, chicken pasta recipe