Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a delicious and indulgent Italian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken breast, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a creamy sauce, all served over pasta. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 8 oz pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the broth simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach leaves. Let the spinach wilt in the sauce for about 2 minutes.
- Slice the Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve the creamy Tuscan chicken pasta hot, and enjoy!
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or your favorite herbs and spices. Enjoy your meal!