Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Name: Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 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; 8 ounces rigatoni pasta noodles, cooked al dente; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; ¼ cup finely diced shallot; ¼ cup 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 heavy cream; 1 ½ cups milk; 1 cup fresh spinach; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; Fresh parsley, for garnish; Salt and pepper, to taste

By:

dani

Published:

September 21, 2025

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This Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe is a delightful dish that brings a taste of Italy right into your home kitchen. With its creamy sauce, succulent chicken, and vibrant vegetables, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Imagine twirling al dente rigatoni around your fork, savoring the rich blend of flavors from the creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or just treating yourself to a hearty meal, this Tuscan Chicken Pasta will surely satisfy. Plus, it’s simple enough for a busy weeknight yet feels elegant enough for guests. So, let’s get cooking and create something special that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds!

Why This Recipe Works

This Tuscan Chicken Pasta combines rich flavors and textures that evoke a sense of comfort. The creamy sauce blends beautifully with the al dente rigatoni, while the perfectly seasoned chicken adds a satisfying protein element. The incorporation of fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes ensures that every bite bursts with color and nutrition, making this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a hearty meal, this Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to prepare yet feels indulgent, balancing the vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine with the home-cooked warmth we all crave. The recipe is forgiving, allowing for improvisation based on your preferences, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

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
8 ounces rigatoni pasta noodles, cooked al dente
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup finely diced shallot
¼ cup 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 heavy cream
1 ½ cups milk
1 cup fresh spinach
1 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparing the Chicken

Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures it’s ready for the chicken when you’re done with the searing.

Season and Sear the Chicken

Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the chicken and rub it in well. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning all over the chicken breasts, making sure they are well coated. In a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Once it’s hot, place the chicken in the skillet and sear it for about 3 minutes on each side or until browned. Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t fully cooked yet.

Bake the Chicken

After searing, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for about 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once it’s done, take it out and place the chicken on a plate. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Cooking the Pasta

Boil the Pasta

In a separate pot, boil salted water. Once the water is at a rolling boil, add the rigatoni pasta. Follow the package instructions to cook it al dente, which usually takes about 14 minutes.

Making the Sauce

Sauté Shallots and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Now, using the same skillet that you seared the chicken in, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced shallots and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook these for about 3-5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.

Add Garlic and Spices

Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. Then add the tomato paste, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.

Incorporate Cream and Spinach

Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring everything together until well blended. Then toss in the fresh spinach, grated parmesan cheese, and halved cherry tomatoes. Stir so all the ingredients are mixed in, reducing the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, just until the cheese melts and the spinach wilts.

Combine and Serve

Toss Pasta with Sauce

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything to coat the pasta evenly. Slice or cube the baked chicken and fold it into the mixture. Serve this Tuscan Chicken Pasta warm, topped off with extra grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Feel free to season with additional salt and pepper based on your liking.

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal complete, pair this Tuscan Chicken Pasta with a fresh green salad and some crusty garlic bread. This adds a nice crunch and contrast to the creamy pasta. For an extra touch, a light white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the dish beautifully.

Tips for Success

Ensure the chicken is fully cooked (165°F) for a safe and delicious meal.
Adjust seasoning to your preference, especially if you enjoy a bit more spice or garlic flavor.
Cook the pasta al dente to ensure it holds up in the creamy sauce, contributing to the perfect texture.

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp or a plant-based protein to give this dish a new twist. Seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers also enhance flavor and nutrition. Additionally, try experimenting with different pasta shapes, such as penne or farfalle, to keep things exciting.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, adding a splash of milk helps to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from thickening too much. Warm it up on low heat, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!

Pairing Ideas

For a delightful dining experience, serve this dish alongside a glass of white wine, like Chardonnay. You might also enjoy a light tomato salad to complement the rich flavors of the Tuscan Chicken Pasta.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta can add a nutty flavor and extra fiber to the dish.

2. How do I make this dish vegan?
You can substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use dairy-free alternatives for cream and cheese.

3. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes! Prepare the sauce ahead of time and simply reheat it before adding the cooked pasta and chicken.

4. What can I add for more flavor?
Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

5. How can I make the dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix before baking the chicken for an extra kick.

This Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe captures the essence of Italian flavors, offering comfort and joy in every bite. As you indulge in this creamy, savory dish, you’ll appreciate the hearty ingredients that come together to create a meal the whole family can enjoy! Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy the love and passion of Tuscan cooking right at your dinner table!