Hello, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, you crave delicious, comforting meals at the end of a busy day. That’s why I’m excited to share my recipe for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta! This dish is rich, flavorful, and super easy to whip up for a weeknight dinner. Trust me, it’s a hug in a bowl! The best part is, you’ll impress your family in no time with this simple yet elegant meal.
Nutritional Benefits of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Let’s talk about the goodies packed into this creamy dish! The chicken gives you a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle health. Now, let’s not forget about spinach! This leafy green is loaded with vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium—making this dish both tasty and a bit nutritious. Incorporating tomatoes adds lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that’s good for your heart. Isn’t it great when you can enjoy a comforting meal while also nourishing your body?
Fun Variations to Make
- Swap the Chicken: If you or someone in your family isn’t a fan of chicken, you can easily substitute it with shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
- Go Gluten-Free: Swap out the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta—this dish is super adaptable!
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in some mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and color.
- Richness Level: Want to amp up the creaminess? Add a splash of heavy cream or more cream cheese—just watch out; it can get really rich!
Easy Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (fettuccine works wonderfully!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Serves 2–3 people
- Generous main-course portions → 2 servings
- Moderate portions → 3 servings
Instructions
- Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides, then add them to the skillet. Cook until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove chicken and let it rest.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the spinach and Italian seasoning, stirring until the spinach wilts.
- Add the cream cheese and chicken broth, stirring until smooth. Let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened slightly.
- Cut the chicken into slices and add it back to the sauce along with the cooked pasta. Toss to combine everything and let it heat through.
- Serve garnished with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy!
Practical Tips
- If you’re making this dish in advance, store the pasta separately from the sauce to prevent it from getting soggy.
- Leftovers? You can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a delightful kick!
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:
- A large pot for cooking the pasta
- A large skillet for sautéing
- A cutting board and knife for slicing
- A spoon or spatula for stirring
- A measuring cup and spoon for liquids
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use any kind of pasta? Yes! Feel free to use your favorite type of pasta, whether it’s penne, rotini, or whole wheat.
- Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping? Absolutely! Just keep the pasta and sauce separate until you’re ready to eat.
- Can I substitute the cream cheese? Yes, you can substitute it with heavy cream or even a dairy-free cream for a lighter option!
- Can I add more vegetables? Definitely! Add any veggies you like, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms!
- How can I make it spicier? Simply add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick!
So, what do you think? Are you ready to try this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta? I’d love to know how yours turns out! Snap a picture once you make it and share it on Pinterest or tag me—I can’t wait to see your creations!
