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Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts offer tenderness and quick cooking. You can swap them for thighs for more flavor or use tofu for a vegetarian option.

Pasta: I love rigatoni for this dish, but penne or farfalle would also work well. For gluten-free diets, try brown rice pasta or gluten-free penne.

Cream: Heavy cream gives richness, but you can use half-and-half, or a dairy-free cream substitute if you prefer a lighter version or need a dairy-free alternative.

Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. If you don’t have it, kale can be a good substitute; just chop it finely and add a bit more cooking time.

Cheese: Parmesan cheese is key for a delicious finish. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor, though the texture won’t be the same.

How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?

Cooking chicken just right can be tricky, but this technique will help. Start with even-sized pieces for consistent cooking. Season the chicken well to lock in flavor.

• Heat the olive oil until shimmering before adding the chicken.
• Cook on medium-high, allowing a golden crust to develop, about 5-7 minutes per side.
• Use a meat thermometer; the chicken is done at 165°F (75°C).

This method ensures juicy chicken that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

What’s the Best Way to Make the Creamy Sauce?

A smooth, creamy sauce is all about timing and ingredients. Here are key steps:

• Start with sautéing garlic gently—don’t let it brown, or it’ll turn bitter.
• After adding tomatoes and herbs, ensure they soften before pouring in broth and cream.
• Stir in the cheese slowly for silky consistency; let it melt completely for that perfect creaminess.

It’s crucial to keep the heat gentle to prevent the cream from curdling. Happy cooking!

How to Make Chicken Creamy Tuscan Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Main Dish:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 oz rigatoni or your preferred pasta
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious Chicken Creamy Tuscan Pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add your rigatoni pasta. Cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente (firm but cooked). When done, drain it and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

2. Sear the Chicken:

While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the dried oregano and basil. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Make the Flavorful Sauce:

In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned. Then, add the cherry tomatoes, remaining oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until the tomatoes soften, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Combine the Creamy Elements:

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Add Spinach and Pasta:

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and toss it in the creamy sauce. Then, add the cooked rigatoni pasta and mix everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce.

6. Finish with Chicken:

Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, placing it on top of the pasta. Allow everything to warm together for about 2 minutes. Serve hot, and if you’d like, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for an extra touch.

Enjoy your comforting Chicken Creamy Tuscan Pasta—a delightful blend of flavors that’s bound to impress your family or guests!

Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni works great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the pasta you choose.

How Can I Keep the Sauce from Being Too Runny?

If the sauce seems too runny, try simmering it a bit longer to help it thicken. Also, ensure you’re adding the Parmesan cheese gradually, as it contributes to the creaminess of the sauce. If needed, you can mix a little cornstarch with water to create a slurry and add it to the sauce to thicken it further.

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover Chicken Creamy Tuscan Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.

Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the garlic and tomatoes to incorporate more flavors and nutrients into your dish!