Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with creamy pasta in a delicious sauce. Infused with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese, this meal brings a taste of Italy to your table.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe offers a rich and comforting meal with a blend of savory flavors and textures. The combination of seared chicken, creamy sauce, and tender pasta makes it a satisfying dinner choice. Plus, it’s relatively simple to prepare and perfect for a family meal or special occasion.

How to Make Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1 pound)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces rigatoni pasta noodles, cooked al dente according to package instructions
• 4 tablespoons (½ stick, 57 g) unsalted butter
• ¼ cup (40 g) shallot, finely diced
• ¼ cup (27.5 g) sun-dried tomatoes, softened in hot water and chopped
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ½ cups (357 g) heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups (245 g) milk
• 1 cup (30 g) fresh spinach
• 1 cup (100 g) Parmesan cheese, grated (plus more for garnish)
• 1 cup (149 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

For the Chicken:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the chicken breasts and rub to coat evenly.
3. In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture over the chicken on all sides.
4. Heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for about 3 minutes on each side, or until browned (the chicken will not be cooked through).
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate. Tent with foil to keep warm while you prepare the pasta and sauce.

For the Pasta:

1. Cook the rigatoni in a pot of boiling salted water according to the package instructions until al dente (about 14 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced shallots and sun-dried tomatoes and cook until the shallots are softened (3-5 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the tomato paste, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine.
6. Add the spinach, Parmesan cheese, and cherry tomatoes. Toss to combine and reduce the heat to low. Simmer until the cheese is fully melted and the spinach is wilted (about 8-10 minutes).
7. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
8. Slice or cube the cooked chicken and add it to the pasta and sauce.

To Serve:

• Serve the Tuscan Chicken Pasta topped with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

How to Serve Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Enjoy this dish as a main course for dinner. It pairs well with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

Tips to Make Tuscan Chicken Pasta

• Chicken Preparation: Ensure the chicken is seared well to develop a nice crust before baking. This adds extra flavor.
• Pasta Cooking: Cook the pasta just until al dente to avoid it becoming too soft when mixed with the sauce.
• Creamy Sauce: Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more milk if needed.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can use other pasta shapes such as penne or farfalle if you prefer.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Combine them with freshly cooked pasta just before serving.

Q: What can I substitute for heavy cream?
A: You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and a little extra butter for a lighter option.