Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta blends tender chicken with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan in a rich garlic cream sauce over pasta for a flavorful, comforting meal. This Italian-inspired dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or special gatherings, offering both elegance and indulgence.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes drained and roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces of uncooked penne or macaroni pasta
- 3 cups baby spinach leaves
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Begin by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or large braiser over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until nicely browned and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot, cut it into 1-inch pieces, and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same pot, add the butter and allow it to melt over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Sauté everything together until the mixture becomes fragrant.
- Cook the Pasta: Pour in the heavy cream, milk, and Parmesan cheese, then add the uncooked penne. Stir to combine and cook for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened.
- Finish the Dish: Return the chopped chicken to the pot along with the baby spinach. Continue cooking for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted and the chicken is heated through.
- To Serve: Dish out while hot and enjoy immediately.