Name: Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; Salt and black pepper to taste; 8 ounces penne pasta; 1 pint heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 Tablespoon minced garlic; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 2/3 cup fresh Parmesan cheese, grated; 1/2 Tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 Tablespoon water; 1 cup sun dried tomatoes, drained then chopped; 1 cup baby spinach

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 53 reviews

If you are craving a dish that combines comforting creaminess, vibrant flavors, and hearty textures, the Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table. This delightful pasta dish features tender chicken simmered in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, kissed with sun dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne. It’s a recipe that feels luxurious but comes together with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it an instant favorite for weeknights or when you want to impress without stress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

This Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe relies on wholesome yet accessible ingredients that each play a crucial role in building its signature taste and texture. From the richness of heavy cream to the tangy notes of sun dried tomatoes, every element is essential and easy to find.

Extra virgin olive oil: Adds a silky base and mild fruitiness, perfect for sautéing chicken evenly without burning.
Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Provides tender, protein-packed pieces that soak up the flavors beautifully.
Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning that enhances every ingredient’s natural flavor.
Penne pasta: A sturdy pasta choice that holds the creamy sauce perfectly.
Heavy whipping cream: Creates the luxurious, velvety texture that’s signature to the sauce.
Chicken broth: Adds depth and a subtle savory undertone without overpowering the sauce.
Minced garlic: Infuses aromatic warmth and a slight bite that’s essential in Tuscan cooking.
Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant blend of herbs that tie the dish together.
Fresh parmesan cheese: Provides sharp, nutty complexity for a perfectly seasoned sauce.
All-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent, ensuring the sauce clings beautifully to the pasta and chicken.
Water: Used to create a slurry for thickening the sauce without lumps.
Sun dried tomatoes: Adds a sweet and tangy pop that contrasts lovely with the creamy sauce.
Baby spinach: Offers a fresh, vibrant green color and mild flavor to balance richness.

How to Make Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Begin by heating the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken breasts and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Stir the chicken frequently to ensure even cooking and brown it on all sides. This process locks in juiciness and adds a lovely golden color. Cook the chicken until it is fully opaque and no longer pink inside, which should take about 10 minutes. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to package instructions until just al dente—this will ensure a nice bite that holds up well in the creamy sauce. Drain the pasta, cover to keep warm, and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Wipe the skillet clean to remove any leftover chicken bits and pour in the heavy whipping cream and chicken broth. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and grated parmesan cheese. Use a whisk for even mixing and cook over medium heat, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

To give your sauce the perfect consistency, mix the all-purpose flour and water in a separate small bowl to create a smooth slurry. Slowly pour this mixture into the simmering cream sauce while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, typically a few minutes.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Now add the sun dried tomatoes, baby spinach, and cooked chicken back to the thickened sauce. Stir gently to combine so the spinach slightly wilts but remains vibrant. Finally, fold in the cooked penne pasta, tossing everything together delicately until the sauce fully coats the pasta and chicken chunks. Your Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe is now ready to serve!

How to Serve Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe

This image shows a close-up of creamy pasta in a black pan on a white marbled surface. The pasta has three main layers: pale yellow penne noodles, white chicken pieces mixed evenly, and dark green spinach leaves scattered throughout. There are also reddish-brown sun-dried tomatoes adding contrast. Everything is coated in a rich, thick white sauce with specks of black pepper and herbs. A wooden spoon lifts a portion of the pasta mix, showing the soft textures and creamy coating clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this dish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a pop of green freshness. A light dusting of extra parmesan cheese adds a nice finishing touch and enhances the dish’s nutty notes.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy pasta with a crisp Arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts also complement the Tuscan flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the pasta in rustic bowls for a cozy family-style meal or twirl portions elegantly on individual plates for a more formal dinner. Adding a few sun dried tomato halves or spinach leaves on the side can also bring visual appeal to the plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce tends to thicken as it chills, so you might want to loosen it up with a splash of cream or broth when reheating.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate when frozen and thawed. If you must freeze, store it without the pasta and reheat gently with fresh pasta added afterward for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally and adding a little cream or broth as needed to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Avoid microwaving at high temperatures to prevent the sauce from curdling.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the sauce, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine depending on your preference.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free cream substitute and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan to keep the creamy texture and cheesy flavor.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add some crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic or finish with a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for a bold spicy kick.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a gathering?

You can prep the sauce and chicken components ahead and store them separately. Pasta is best cooked just before serving to maintain texture, then toss everything together right before you eat.

What wine pairs well with Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe?

A crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a light Chardonnay complements the creamy, garlicky flavors perfectly without overpowering the dish.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say that this Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe will quickly become one of your go-to meals when you want fuss-free comfort food with a gourmet twist. The harmonious blend of garlic, cream, and sun dried tomatoes creates a symphony of flavors that’s as satisfying as it is unforgettable. Give it a try and watch how it wins over everyone at your table with each luscious bite!