Description
A deliciously creamy and spicy Tuscan chicken pasta featuring tender chicken strips, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a comforting Italian-inspired dinner that’s ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Pasta
- 10 ounces penne or fettuccine pasta
Sauce and Vegetables
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken: While the pasta cooks, season chicken strips with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and tomatoes: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds, then stir in cherry tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Make the sauce: Add heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Stir and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Add spinach and stir until wilted.
- Combine ingredients: Return the chicken to the pan, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together to coat in the sauce. Cook for another minute until heated through.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing the red pepper flakes according to your preference.
- For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- You can use grilled chicken instead of sautéed chicken for a smoky flavor.
