Tuscan Chicken Pasta
A creamy and hearty Tuscan Chicken Pasta dish with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta Choose gluten-free for a heart-health twist.
- 1 lb chicken breast Lean protein source that keeps you full.
Vegetable Ingredients
- 2 cups spinach Fresh, nutrient-rich greens for a colorful plate.
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes Adds a sweet tang that enhances the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic Aromatic addition that elevates flavors.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream Creates the rich, creamy sauce you crave.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Adds a savory depth to your sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Healthy fat that boosts flavor.
- To taste salt and pepper Essential for balanced seasoning.
- 1 Basil for garnish Fresh herb that brightens up the dish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water over high heat.
- While the water heats, slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the garlic finely and prepare the sun-dried tomatoes by cutting them into strips.
- Wash the spinach thoroughly and let it drain.
- Gather all your ingredients to ensure a streamlined cooking process.
Cooking
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once hot, add the sliced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-7 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
- Add the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the chicken, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Once the pasta is ready, drain it and toss it into the skillet with the sauce.
- Add spinach and stir until wilted. Mix in Parmesan cheese and stir well to combine.
Serving
- Remove from heat and serve immediately while hot.
- Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.
- Plate the pasta generously, ensuring each serving has a good mix of chicken, sauce, and vegetables.
- Optionally, top with additional Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor.
Notes
For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt. Cooking the chicken in a preheated pan ensures a better sear. Add black pepper to taste as you mix.