Name: Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1 pound); 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided); 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 8 ounces rigatoni pasta noodles (cooked al dente according to package instructions); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter ((½ stick, 57 g)); 0.25 cup shallot (finely diced (40 g)); 0.25 cup sun-dried tomatoes (softened in hot water and chopped (27.5 g)); 1 teaspoon garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt; 0.25 teaspoon black pepper; 1.5 cups heavy cream ((357 g)); 1.5 cups milk ((245 g)); 1 cup fresh spinach ((30 g)); 1 cup parmesan cheese (grated (plus more for garnish, 100 g)); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved (149 g)); fresh parsley (for garnish); salt (to taste); pepper (to taste)

Introduction to Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Creating a comforting yet sophisticated dish can be tricky, but Tuscan Chicken Pasta strikes the perfect balance. This vibrant recipe combines rigatoni with a rich cream sauce, tossed with fresh spinach, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and seasoned chicken. It not only satisfies your craving for comfort food but also adds a touch of elegance to your dinner table.

Why Tuscan Chicken Pasta is the Perfect Dinner Choice

Picture this: it's a busy weeknight, and you're craving something hearty that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Tuscan Chicken Pasta has you covered! With a prep time of just 30 minutes and a total cooking time of 20 minutes, you can whip up a delightfully hearty meal in under an hour.

This dish is also incredibly versatile. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Want to add some roasted red peppers? Go for it! Prefer a lighter sauce? You can easily modify the creaminess to suit your taste.

Nutritionally speaking, it packs a punch with protein from the chicken and fiber from the spinach, making it both satisfying and nourishing. So, whether you're impressing guests or simply enjoying a cozy dinner, Tuscan Chicken Pasta is sure to become a go-to favorite in your meal rotation.

For more great pasta dishes, check out this article for inspiration!

Ingredients for Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Essential ingredients for Tuscan Chicken Pasta

To whip up the deliciousness of Tuscan Chicken Pasta, you’ll need some core ingredients that blend beautifully together. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Chicken: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a juicy, flavorful protein.
Rigatoni Pasta: 8 ounces, perfectly cooked al dente for that satisfying bite.
Creamy Sauce Ingredients:
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup shallots, finely diced
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 ½ cups heavy cream and 1 ½ cups milk to create an indulgent sauce.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese to add that cheesy goodness.
Fresh Veggies: 1 cup fresh spinach and 1 cup cherry tomatoes for color and nutrients.

Optional ingredients for added flavor

If you’re looking to elevate your Tuscan Chicken Pasta, a few optional ingredients can pack a flavorful punch:

Sun-dried Tomatoes: ¼ cup for a sweet, tangy element.
Seasonings: Sprinkle in some oregano and additional garlic powder for depth.
Fresh Parsley: Use it as a garnish for a pop of freshness.

Feel free to adjust these ingredients based on your pantry and personal tastes. For more ideas or tips on sourcing fresh ingredients, check out this guide on finding local produce!

Preparing Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Cooking up a delicious plate of Tuscan Chicken Pasta is much easier than you might think. This recipe will guide you through every step, ensuring your dinner is both hearty and flavorful. Let’s dive in!

Preparing the Chicken

The first thing you’ll want to do is get your chicken ready. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Take two boneless, skinless chicken breasts and drizzle them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, making sure to coat them evenly. Next, mix paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper in a small bowl and rub this seasoning all over the chicken.

In a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Once it’s hot, carefully place the chicken in the skillet and sear them for about 3 minutes on each side until they're golden brown. They won’t be fully cooked yet; that’s fine! Transfer the entire skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, let the chicken rest on a plate as you move on to the Tuscan Chicken Pasta itself.

Cooking the Rigatoni

While the chicken is in the oven, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add 8 ounces of rigatoni pasta. Follow the package instructions, usually about 14 minutes, cooking until they’re al dente. This perfectly cooked pasta will hold up well in your creamy sauce later.

Making the Cream Sauce

Once the pasta is cooking, you can begin making the creamy sauce. Using the same skillet where you cooked the chicken (to retain those flavors), melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add finely diced shallots and softened sun-dried tomatoes, cooking until the shallots become soft, about 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic for the last minute to add extra flavor.

Next, add tomato paste, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine. Then pour in 1.5 cups of heavy cream and 1.5 cups of milk, mixing everything well. Toss in a cup of fresh spinach and a cup of grated parmesan cheese—this is where the magic happens! Allow the sauce to simmer for 8-10 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully and the spinach is wilted.

Combining the Pasta and Sauce

Once your sauce is ready and the pasta is cooked, it’s time to combine them! Drain the rigatoni and add it directly to the creamy sauce, tossing to coat every piece perfectly.

Final Touches and Plating

Slice or cube your seared chicken and fold it into the pasta and sauce mixture. When plating, sprinkle some additional parmesan cheese on top along with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!

Now, you’ve got a stunning Tuscan Chicken Pasta dish that’s sure to impress. Pair it with a light salad or some crusty bread for a meal that will feel like a little slice of Tuscany right at home. Enjoy!

Variations on Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Vegetarian Tuscan Chicken Pasta
For a delightful twist, consider making a vegetarian version of Tuscan Chicken Pasta. Substitute the chicken with hearty plant-based protein like diced tofu or chickpeas, and replace the cream with a rich cashew cream. This not only adds a creamy texture but also brings in a nutty flavor. Throw in some extra veggies such as zucchini or bell peppers for added color and nutrition!

Tuscan Chicken Pasta with a Twist
Want to spice things up? Try Tuscan Chicken Pasta with a zesty pesto sauce. Simply mix a couple of tablespoons of your favorite store-bought or homemade pesto into the cream sauce for a fresh burst of flavor. The herby notes combined with the chicken and pasta create an irresistible dish that’s sure to impress at your dinner table.

Cooking tips and notes for Tuscan Chicken Pasta

What to remember for perfectly seasoned chicken

To achieve perfectly seasoned chicken for your Tuscan Chicken Pasta, ensure you generously coat the chicken breasts with olive oil before applying your seasoning blend of paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Letting the chicken sit for about 15-30 minutes allows the flavors to meld in, enhancing the taste. For a delightful twist, consider marinating the chicken overnight—this step significantly intensifies the flavors.

Tips for creamy, smooth sauce

When making the creamy sauce, always add the heavy cream and milk gradually. Stir continuously to avoid lumps and ensure a luxuriously smooth consistency. If you find the sauce too thick, a splash of chicken broth or pasta cooking water can help loosen it up beautifully. Don’t forget to incorporate the cheese slowly until it fully melts for that silky finish.

For more cooking tips, explore resources like The Kitchn for expert advice!

Serving suggestions for Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Best sides to complement the dish

To make Tuscan Chicken Pasta a splendid dining experience, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can balance the creamy pasta perfectly. Roasted asparagus or garlic bread also make fantastic companions, adding a delightful crunch or savoriness to every bite.

Ideal garnishes for presentation

Making your Tuscan Chicken Pasta visually appealing is a breeze! Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley over the dish just before serving. For an extra pop of color, add a few halved cherry tomatoes on top. This not only enhances the presentation but also amplifies the flavors, ensuring a dish that's as delicious as it is beautiful. Want to make it even more special? Serve it in a charming bowl that complements your table setting!

For more ideas on enhancing your dishes, check out these topping tips.

Time Details for Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Preparation Time
Preparing the ingredients for Tuscan Chicken Pasta takes about 30 minutes. It’s the perfect time to gather your spices and get your chicken prepped while the pasta water boils—multitasking is key in the kitchen!

Cooking Time
The cooking portion requires approximately 20 minutes. This involves searing the chicken and simmering the luscious cream sauce. It’s a quick process that results in a comforting, delicious meal ready in no time.

Total Time
In just 50 minutes, you can go from gathering your ingredients to serving up this hearty dish. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, you’ll appreciate how swiftly you can whip up Tuscan Chicken Pasta.

If you're interested in meal-prepping, check out The Kitchn for tips!

Nutritional Information for Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Calories

A serving of Tuscan Chicken Pasta contains approximately 471 calories. This delicious and creamy dish is both filling and packed with flavor, making it a satisfying choice for dinner.

Protein

With over 33 grams of protein per serving, this pasta dish offers a hearty contribution to your daily intake. The combination of chicken and cheese not only enhances its taste but also makes it a great option for muscle recovery after an active day.

Sodium

Each serving has about 570 mg of sodium. While it's essential to consider sodium intake for overall health, balancing it with fresh ingredients like spinach and tomatoes makes this dish a tasty, yet mindful choice. For those watching their sodium levels, consider using low-sodium broth or minimizing added salt.

Curious about more nutritional details? You can check out helpful resources from NutritionData for personalized dietary guidelines!

FAQs about Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni holds the sauce beautifully, you can swap it for other pasta like penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine. Just be sure to adjust cooking times based on the pasta type you choose. Each will bring its unique flair to the dish!

How can I store leftovers?

If you find yourself with extra Tuscan Chicken Pasta, don’t worry! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the oven or on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream to help restore its creamy texture.

What are good side dishes to serve?

Pair your Tuscan Chicken Pasta with fresh garlic bread or a simple mixed greens salad for a delightful meal. Roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus also complement this dish nicely, adding a pop of color and extra nutrients to your plate. Enjoy experimenting!

Conclusion on Tuscan Chicken Pasta

In summary, Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines creamy flavors with fresh ingredients for a satisfying meal. Whether you're hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it out tonight and elevate your dinner game!