Description
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
8 oz pasta (fettuccine or linguine)
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Season and Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Pasta: While the chicken cooks, boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
Make it Creamy: Pour in heavy cream, stirring until the sauce starts to simmer. Add Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using) and continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Combine: Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until evenly coated with the sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to let flavors meld.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy this rich and comforting Tuscan-inspired pasta!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~650 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect result every time. Begin by prepping all ingredients before heating your skillet. This “mise en place” is crucial for a smooth cooking process. When cooking the chicken, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the oil and chicken to get a proper sear without steaming. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. For the sauce, keep the heat at a steady medium after adding the cream to prevent it from breaking or scalding. Stir constantly while adding the Parmesan to ensure it melts smoothly into a velvety sauce, creating an emulsion rather than clumping.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta is a complete meal but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread is a classic for soaking up extra sauce. For a lighter touch, pair with steamed green beans or roasted asparagus. A glass of Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay complements the dish beautifully.
How-to Summary
In summary: Season and sear chicken strips, then set aside. Cook pasta. In the same pan, make a garlic and sun-dried tomato base. Add cream and Parmesan to create a creamy sauce. Combine cooked chicken and pasta with the sauce, toss to coat, garnish, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work wonderfully and offer more flavor. Adjust cooking time slightly as they may take a minute or two longer.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Note the sauce will be less thick.
My sauce seems too thin. How can I thicken it? Let it simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce. You can also create a slurry with 1 tsp of cornstarch and 1 tbsp of water, then whisk it into the simmering sauce.
Can I add spinach? Absolutely! Add 2-3 handfuls of fresh baby spinach when you combine the chicken and pasta. Stir until just wilted.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken, leading to dry, tough strips.
- Adding Parmesan cheese to boiling sauce, which can cause it to clump instead of melt smoothly.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan from a canister, which contains anti-caking agents and won’t melt as well as freshly grated.
- Rinsing the cooked pasta, which removes the starch that helps the sauce adhere.
- Walking away while the cream sauce simmers, risking it bubbling over or breaking.
Conclusion
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a restaurant-quality dish that is deceptively simple to make at home. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you can create a consistently rich, flavorful, and comforting meal perfect for any weeknight or special occasion. Its versatility with ingredients and reliable process makes it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.