There’s something about creamy Tuscan chicken pasta that makes you want to dive headfirst into the bowl, twirling your fork like a pro. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, a tantalizing mix of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil, inviting you to indulge in this comforting dish. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that dance on your palate, promising a delightful experience with every bite.

Often enjoyed during cozy family dinners or impromptu gatherings with friends, creamy Tuscan chicken pasta brings people together. I can still hear my friend Elena’s laughter as she declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” right before she went in for her third helping. The anticipation builds as you prepare to recreate this magic in your own kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy Tuscan chicken pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The rich flavor profile combines savory and tangy notes for an unforgettable meal
- Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress your guests
- Versatile enough for any occasion, you can serve it at dinner parties or casual gatherings
I remember the first time I served this dish; my family couldn’t stop raving about it for days.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts depending on your crowd size; they cook evenly and stay juicy.
Fresh Garlic: Select firm cloves for maximum flavor; minced or pressed works best for this recipe.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Choose oil-packed varieties for added richness; feel free to chop them up finely.
Heavy Cream: The key to that creamy texture; don’t skimp out on the good stuff!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated gives the best flavor; it melts beautifully into the sauce.
Fresh Spinach: Adds color and nutrition; toss it in at the end so it wilts perfectly.
Basil Leaves: Fresh basil elevates the dish; chop it just before serving for optimal aroma.
Pasta of Choice: Fettuccine or penne work great here; cook according to package instructions until al dente.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Start by cooking the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through—about 6-7 minutes per side.
Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Reduce heat slightly before adding minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Sauté until garlic becomes fragrant—around 1-2 minutes—to avoid burning.
Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in heavy cream, stirring well to combine with chicken and tomatoes. Allow it to simmer gently while you admire its beautiful consistency—about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Toss in Spinach and Cheese: Add fresh spinach and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir until spinach wilts down and cheese melts seamlessly into the sauce—this is where the magic happens!
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Finally, add your cooked pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together gently until each piece is coated in that luscious creamy sauce—time to feast!
Enjoy every bite of this creamy Tuscan chicken pasta as it transports you straight to a cozy Italian trattoria!
You Must Know
- This creamy Tuscan chicken pasta is a delightful blend of flavors that will impress anyone
- The rich aromas fill your kitchen, and the texture is creamy and comforting
- It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive gathering with friends
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in flavor, then cook the pasta while preparing the sauce. This ensures everything finishes at the same time, creating a harmonious dish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out spinach for kale or add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra punch of flavor. Personalizing this dish makes it even more special.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor and better melting
- Avoid overcooking pasta; it should be al dente for perfect texture
- Consider adding a splash of white wine to elevate the sauce’s taste
Sometimes, I whip up this creamy Tuscan chicken pasta when friends visit, and their compliments make me feel like a culinary genius!
FAQ
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta for an equally delicious experience without gluten.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Preparation and cooking time typically takes around 30-40 minutes from start to finish.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Creamy Tuscan chicken pasta is a decadent dish that combines succulent chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a rich, creamy sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Ready in just 30-40 minutes, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, cooking for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and slice.
- Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream; stir well and simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add spinach and Parmesan cheese, stirring until spinach wilts and cheese melts.
- Toss in the cooked pasta and sliced chicken, mixing gently to coat everything in the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 130mg