Creamy Chicken Tuscan Pasta

There’s something oh-so-comforting about a creamy pasta dish, and Creamy Chicken Tuscan Pasta is just that. This delightful creation combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and delicious sun-dried tomatoes all enveloped in a rich Alfredo sauce. It’s a meal that brings warmth to the heart and stomach, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner with family or friends. The vibrant colors of the ingredients also make for a beautiful presentation, and who can resist that?

Another appealing aspect of this dish lies in its simplicity. You’ll find that this recipe requires minimal fuss and prep time, allowing you to whip it up quickly without skimping on flavor. Most ingredients are staples that you might already have in your pantry, which means fewer trips to the grocery store. So, you can cook up this hearty meal without a hitch—how wonderful does that sound?

Lastly, let’s not overlook the sheer joy of sharing a home-cooked meal. This pasta dish serves six, making it ideal for gatherings. Whether it’s a family dinner or a simple get-together with friends, this recipe can bring everyone together. The smiles on faces as they dig into the creamy goodness is truly priceless. Give it a try, and you might just discover your new favorite!

How to Make Creamy Chicken Tuscan Pasta

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
3 cups baby spinach
8 oz penne pasta, uncooked
1 jar Alfredo sauce (15 oz)
2 cups boiling water
1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese
Basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

First, preheat your oven to 400°F.
Next, in a medium-sized bowl, combine the cubed chicken, minced garlic, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good toss to coat the chicken evenly.
Now, in a deep oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the seasoned chicken and cook it for 7-8 minutes until it’s cooked through.
Turn off the heat and add the sun-dried tomatoes, baby spinach, uncooked penne pasta, and Alfredo sauce to the skillet. Mix everything well until it’s all combined.
Pour the boiling water over the mixture and stir to combine everything nicely.
Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and carefully transfer it to your preheated oven.
Bake for 30 minutes or until the pasta is cooked to perfection.
After that time, bring the skillet out from the oven and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over it.
Return it to the oven to bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Finally, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, before serving. Voilà!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tuscan Pasta

Serving Creamy Chicken Tuscan Pasta is just as enjoyable as making it. Start by scooping a generous portion onto each plate. Watch as the creamy sauce coats the pasta beautifully. The vibrant colors of the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes peek through the luscious Alfredo sauce, creating an inviting plate.

Consider presenting this dish family-style by serving it directly from the skillet. This way, your guests can help themselves and enjoy the communal experience of sharing a meal. Accompany it with a simple green salad and some crusty bread to soak up the leftover sauce—absolutely delightful!

Don’t forget to sprinkle a bit of extra cheese and fresh herbs on top before serving. This little touch not only enhances the flavor, but it also adds a fresh appeal, making the dish look even more appetizing. Your guests will certainly be impressed!

Additional Tips:

Chicken Substitute: If you prefer, you can easily substitute the chicken with shrimp or a veggie option for a lighter meal.

Pasta Choice: While penne works wonderfully, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like rotini or farfalle.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stove!

Nutrition Facts:

(As this information can vary, please calculate based on specific ingredients and portions used.)

FAQ Section

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare the ingredients and assemble everything before baking. Cover the skillet and pop it in the fridge. Bake it the next day for a quick dinner!

Q: What can I use instead of Alfredo sauce?

A: A homemade cheese sauce or light cream sauce can make a delicious substitute, adding even more homemade flair to your dish.

Creamy Chicken Tuscan Pasta

Enjoy this delightful recipe and share the joy of cooking with others! Bon appétit!

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