Italian Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

This Italian Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a luxurious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 ounces penne pasta
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken slices with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden and no longer pink in the middle, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent.
4. Create the Sauce: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes. Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Cook on low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
5. Combine Ingredients: Add the spinach to the sauce and cook until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well. Add the cooked penne pasta, toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the sauce.
6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 700
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 45g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Cholesterol: 150mg
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g

Note: The nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.

Tips:

• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
• You can add mushrooms or bell peppers for additional flavors and textures.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Enjoy this creamy and delicious Italian Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with your family and friends!