As the sun dips below the horizon, I find myself dreaming of a dinner that wraps me in warmth. Enter my 35-Minute Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes—a dish that perfectly combines nostalgia and comfort. In just half an hour, this creamy pasta recipe transforms your weeknight routine into an Italian-inspired feast, featuring tender chicken, luscious cream sauce, and vibrant spinach. It’s not just quick to prepare; it’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that makes every bite feel like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re looking to impress on a busy weeknight or simply want to indulge in some cozy Italian comfort food, this pasta dish offers the richness you crave without taking hours in the kitchen. Curious about how to bring this comforting meal to your table? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Adore This Pasta Dish
Simplicity at Its Finest: This 35-Minute Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta requires just a few simple steps, allowing you to whip up a stunning meal without the hassle.
Creamy Indulgence: With a delightful rich cream sauce complemented by sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, every bite is a cozy embrace for your taste buds.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily switch out the pasta type or add extra veggies like mushrooms or roasted peppers for a personal touch.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Perfect for a family dinner or an intimate gathering, this dish never fails to impress. Looking for other comforting recipes? Try Buffalo Chicken Alfredo or Marry Pasta Vegan.
Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the ideal option for busy weeknights when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
35-Minute Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Ingredients
Get ready to create a cozy culinary masterpiece with these delicious ingredients!
For the Pasta
• Rigatoni Pasta – The perfect base that holds the creamy sauce beautifully; feel free to swap with ziti or penne.
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless for quick cooking; thighs can be an excellent alternative.
For the Sauce
• Dried Oregano – Adds an aromatic depth; Italian seasoning can be used in a pinch.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing the flavors; don’t forget to salt your pasta water as well!
• Black Pepper – Freshly ground for a mild kick; a hint of warmth to elevate the dish.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – For browning the chicken and sautéing aromatics; sun-dried tomato oil works wonders too.
• Garlic – Finely chopped, it forms the aromatic base for your creamy sauce.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Brings concentrated tart flavor; swap for oil-packed dried tomatoes if necessary.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – A hint of spice to customize heat levels; use sparingly for warmth.
• Tomato Paste – Thickens the sauce and boosts flavor; optional if you want a lighter consistency.
• Dry White Wine – Balances the cream’s richness; chicken broth serves as a great non-alcoholic substitute.
• Heavy Cream – Creates that luxurious, velvety texture; consider half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Fresh Baby Spinach – Adds vibrant color and nutrition; you can replace it with kale if desired.
• Reserved Pasta Water – Contains starch for better sauce adherence; a crucial step for a smooth finish.
• Parmigiano Reggiano (Grated) – Adds a salty, nutty nuance; any hard cheese will do if needed.
• Flaky Sea Salt – Perfect for a finishing touch; enhances flavors just before serving.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to whip up the ultimate 35-Minute Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, guaranteed to turn your dinner into a cozy experience!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for 35-Minute Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook it until al dente, approximately 11 minutes. Keep an eye on the pasta; it should be tender yet firm when bitten. Before draining, reserve about a cup of the pasta water to help adjust the sauce later.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, pat the boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a mixing bowl, season the chicken with dried oregano, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring all sides are well coated. This will enhance the flavor of your creamy Tuscan chicken pasta, making it more delicious.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 7-10 minutes until it’s golden brown and fully cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add another splash of olive oil, if needed, then toss in the chopped garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté these ingredients over medium heat for about 2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently. This step infuses the base of your creamy Tuscan chicken pasta with wonderful flavors.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
Stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste to the aromatic mixture, letting it cook for a minute. Then, carefully pour in the dry white wine and allow it to simmer for about one minute, which helps to cook off the alcohol. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine until the sauce is rich and creamy, ready to envelop the pasta.
Step 6: Combine the Ingredients
Add the drained rigatoni, sliced chicken, fresh baby spinach, and a splash of the reserved pasta water to the creamy sauce. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well coated, and the spinach wilts. Adjust the sauce’s thickness with more reserved water, ensuring that your 35-Minute Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta has a luscious consistency.
Step 7: Serve It Up
Spoon the creamy Tuscan chicken pasta into serving bowls, finishing each portion with a sprinkle of grated Parmigiano Reggiano and additional fresh basil. For an extra touch, add a pinch of flaky sea salt right before serving, enhancing the flavors and making your meal feel complete and satisfying.
What to Serve with Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
As you prepare this delightful dish, think of the perfect accompaniments to elevate your cozy dinner experience.
- Arugula Salad: A fresh, peppery salad provides a lovely contrast to the creamy pasta, enhancing every bite with its crispiness and brightness.
- Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery, and bursting with garlic flavor, this is a must-have to mop up the rich sauce and add a satisfying crunch.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers, offer sweetness and texture, balancing the dish beautifully.
- White Wine: A glass of chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc acts as the ideal pairing, complementing the richness of the creamy sauce with its acidity.
- Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light and refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate, offsetting the creamy indulgence of the pasta.
- Steamed Asparagus: Vibrant green asparagus adds a touch of elegance and a tender crunch, enhancing the meal’s visual appeal and nutritional value.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: For a protein-packed side, serve chicken skewers marinated in herbs, ensuring a flavor complement and satisfying texture to every bite.
- Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: These sweet and tangy sprouts add a delightful pop of flavor and pair perfectly with the creamy Tuscan chicken pasta.
Expert Tips for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
• Pasta Perfection: Always remember to cook the pasta al dente. It should retain a slight bite, which helps it absorb the yummy sauce later!
• Chicken Checks: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This prevents undercooking while keeping it tender.
• Sauté Smart: Don’t rush the sautéing step! Cooking garlic and sun-dried tomatoes until fragrant unlocks their flavors, making your creamy Tuscan chicken pasta truly delightful.
• Water Wisdom: Reserve pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid can help adjust and smooth out your sauce, making it perfectly creamy.
• Seasoning Savvy: Taste your sauce before serving. Depending on the cheese and sun-dried tomatoes used, you may need a pinch more salt or pepper for the right balance.
• Creamy Consistency: If your sauce thickens too much, add a splash of reserved pasta water until you achieve that desired silky texture.
Make Ahead Options
This 35-Minute Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet experience without the fuss. You can prep the chicken and sun-dried tomato sauce up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain that delightful creaminess. For the pasta, cook it until just al dente, then toss it in a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking, storing it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in a pan, toss in the cooked pasta and fresh spinach, and enjoy a delicious weeknight dinner that tastes just as fabulous as when you made it fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure to let the pasta cool to room temperature before sealing it to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the creamy Tuscan chicken pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Consider portioning it out for convenient single servings!
Reheating: When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge. Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore its creamy consistency.
Post-Reheat Tip: If the sauce thickens during reheating, incorporate reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve the desired texture. Enjoy your cozy meal again!
Variations & Substitutions for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Customize your dish and explore new flavor profiles with these tasty options that will make your kitchen sing with creativity!
- Whole Wheat Pasta: Substitute rigatoni with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber.
- Mushroom Medley: Toss in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth; their umami enhances the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Creamy Vegan: Swap chicken for chickpeas and use coconut milk for a lush, dairy-free version that’s still rich and satisfying.
- Add Zucchini: For a burst of color and extra nutrition, add sautéed zucchini and feel the fresh crunch!
- Spicy Kick: Crank up the heat by adding jalapeño slices or a dollop of your favorite hot sauce for an adventurous twist.
- Lemon Zest: Brighten the flavors with a touch of lemon zest or juice; it elevates the dish and balances the richness.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in a handful of mozzarella or ricotta for extra creaminess and that cheesy pull we all love.
- Chicken Variety: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using grilled shrimp instead of chicken for a seaside flair that complements the sauce.
With these variations, your 35-Minute Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta can be endlessly customizable, ensuring that every dinner is a new and delightful experience. For more cozy recipes, check out our delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo or dive into the flavorful world of Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad!
35-Minute Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I select the perfect sun-dried tomatoes for my pasta?
Absolutely! When selecting sun-dried tomatoes, look for ones that are plump and vibrant in color. Avoid those that appear dark and shriveled, as they may be too dry. If using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, make sure the oil is clear and free from any dark spots. This ensures you’re getting the best flavor and texture for your creamy Tuscan chicken pasta.
How should I store leftovers of my creamy Tuscan chicken pasta?
Very simply! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure the pasta has cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain optimal freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth!
Can I freeze creamy Tuscan chicken pasta?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the creamy Tuscan chicken pasta in a freezer-safe container, portioned out for convenience. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove with a bit of reserved pasta water for the perfect creamy texture.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
No worries at all! If your sauce turns out too thick after cooking, simply add a splash of reserved pasta water gradually until it reaches the desired creamy consistency. This starchy water will help bring it all together without compromising the flavor. It’s one of my favorite tricks to make sure the sauce stays rich and smooth!
Is this recipe suitable for my family with food allergies?
Always check the ingredients! This creamy Tuscan chicken pasta recipe contains common allergens such as dairy (from the heavy cream and cheese) and gluten (from the pasta). For a gluten-free option, you can substitute the rigatoni with a gluten-free pasta variety. If dairy is a concern, coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative can work well to keep it creamy while accommodating dietary restrictions.
35-Minute Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook until al dente, about 11 minutes, reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Pat chicken dry and season with oregano, salt, and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat, add chicken, and cook until golden, about 7-10 minutes. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove chicken and rest. In the same skillet, add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes, sauté for 2 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, then add white wine and simmer for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and mix until creamy.
- Add drained rigatoni, sliced chicken, spinach, and reserved pasta water, tossing gently until combined and spinach wilts.
- Serve in bowls, garnished with Parmigiano Reggiano and flaky sea salt.
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