Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Dish 🍝🌿😍
1. Introduction to Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne
Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience with our Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne! This delightful pasta dish combines tender chicken and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this recipe is a culinary adventure that showcases the rich flavors of Tuscany. If you love creamy pasta dishes, you should also check out this creamy tomato pasta recipe. Let’s dive into this irresistible Tuscan chicken penne recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home!
2. Ingredients for the Best Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne
Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish. Quality ingredients are key to a truly exceptional creamy Tuscan chicken pasta experience:
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken for Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Make sure to not overcrowd the pan so that the chicken browns properly. Similar to our creamy garlic chicken recipe, getting a good sear on the chicken adds a ton of flavor!
Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomatoes for Tuscan Chicken Penne
Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant, ensuring the flavors meld perfectly together for your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne. Keep an eye on the garlic to prevent it from burning, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Stir continuously until creamy and smooth, creating a perfect base for your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne. For a richer flavor, you can use a combination of Parmesan and Romano cheese.
Step 4: Combine with Pasta and Spinach for Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Finally, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain, and toss the cooked penne into the creamy chicken sauce along with fresh spinach. Mix well to ensure every pasta piece is coated in the rich, flavorful sauce. The spinach should wilt quickly from the heat of the sauce and pasta. If you enjoy pasta dishes like this, you might also love our sweet and spicy garlic steak pasta.
4. Storage Tips for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne Leftovers
Store any leftovers of your delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove until heated through. Adding a splash of cream or broth when reheating can help restore the creamy consistency. For more chicken recipes, take a look at this pasta category.
5. Serving Suggestions for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne
Garnish your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley for an appealing touch. Pair this delectable dish with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will adore! This recipe pairs excellently with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cream sauce. Thinking of trying something different? This creamy pesto chicken recipe could be your thing!
6. FAQs About Making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne
Can I use other types of pasta in this Creamy Chicken Pasta recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute penne with your favorite pasta like fusilli or farfalle for a delightful twist. Different pasta shapes can change the texture and how well the sauce clings, so experiment and see what you like best!
Is there a vegetarian option for this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne recipe?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or extra vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a tasty vegetarian version. Tofu or tempeh can also be used as protein alternatives. If you are a huge fan of chicken recipes, this honey garlic chicken will blow your mind!
Can I make this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the creamy sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Just combine with cooked pasta before serving for a quick and easy dinner! Store the sauce and pasta separately to prevent the pasta from becoming too soggy. Need more dinner ideas? Check out this chicken and broccoli pasta recipe.
7. Nutritional Information for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne
This portion of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne offers a balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. Each serving provides an average of 520 calories, making it a hearty meal option for dinner. Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
8. Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne
To elevate your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne, consider using high-quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for a more intense flavor. A splash of dry white wine added to the sauce can also enhance the overall taste profile. Don’t forget to season each layer of the dish for optimal flavor! Are you a fan of chicken and rice recipes? If so, our smothered chicken and rice recipe is a must-try.
9. Conclusion: Enjoy Your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne!
Now you have everything you need to create this delectable Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne at home! With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s bound to become a favorite recipe in your kitchen. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients to make this dish your own. For a slightly different flavor profile, check out this recipe for additional inspiration. Enjoy every bite! Need more new recipes inspiration? Don’t miss our beef and broccoli recipe, you’ll love it!
10. Final Thoughts on Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne
Thank you for joining us on this culinary journey! We hope you enjoy making and savoring our Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking! Searching for another comforting meal? Try our taco lasagna, it will be a success!
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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of our Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne, a comforting pasta dish featuring tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious creamy sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or impressing guests, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté until cooked through and golden brown.
- Add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Lower heat and pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until creamy and smooth.
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and toss into the creamy chicken sauce along with fresh spinach. Mix well until pasta is coated in the sauce.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove to reheat.
- For a vegetarian option, swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or extra veggies like zucchini and bell peppers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520 Kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
