Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta: The Ultimate Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe
Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy right in your own kitchen with this exquisite Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta. Imagine succulent, tender chicken pieces, perfectly sautéed mushrooms, and a luscious, garlicky tomato-cream sauce, all lovingly tossed with your favorite pasta. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary escape, designed to bring comfort and sophistication to your table without demanding hours of your precious time. Crafted with simple, readily available ingredients, this dish promises a restaurant-quality experience ready in under 30 minutes. A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving elevates it to a true masterpiece, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when you crave something extraordinary yet effortlessly prepared.
When the evening calls for a truly comforting meal, but your schedule demands speed, Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is my unwavering choice. It has that magical quality of feeling far more elaborate than its actual preparation suggests. This dish consistently delivers a taste that transports you, creating a cozy dining experience that nourishes both body and soul. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a gourmet chef, even when you’ve just whipped it up in minutes.
With a few pantry staples, a handful of fresh ingredients, and approximately 25 minutes of active cooking, you can create a culinary marvel featuring tender chicken, perfectly browned mushrooms, and an irresistibly creamy, garlicky sauce, all intertwined with pasta. To truly embrace the spirit of the dish, pair it with a crisp glass of white wine. You’ll find yourself, at least in spirit, dining al fresco in the picturesque Italian countryside, savoring every delightful bite. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly memorable and deeply satisfying.
If you’re someone who appreciates cozy, flavor-packed pasta dishes that consistently hit the spot, this Tuscan-inspired recipe is destined to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. It stands proudly alongside other beloved recipes like my Smoky Garlic Chicken Pasta, which I turn to when I crave bold, savory notes, or the indulgent Marry Me Chicken Pasta for those evenings when a touch of luxury is desired. What truly sets this Tuscan version apart is its impeccable balance: it’s wonderfully rich and satisfying without ever feeling heavy. Its simplicity makes it perfect for a hectic weeknight, while its elegant flavor profile ensures it’s also fantastic for hosting dinner without the stress of an overly complicated menu.
What Makes This Tuscan Chicken Pasta a Must-Try?
This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures designed for maximum enjoyment with minimal effort. Here’s why this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta will quickly become one of your go-to recipes:
- Effortless Preparation: This recipe is designed to be quick, making it ideal for busy weeknights. From start to finish, you’re looking at a delicious meal on the table in about 25-30 minutes, freeing up your evening for other activities.
- Simple, Accessible Ingredients: You won’t need to scour specialty stores for exotic items. This recipe relies on everyday pantry staples like canned diced tomatoes and half-and-half, combined with fresh chicken and mushrooms. It’s convenient and budget-friendly.
- Customizable Pasta Perfection: While angel hair pasta is a fantastic choice for its quick cooking time and delicate texture, this dish is incredibly versatile. Feel free to swap it for your favorite pasta shape—penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti all work beautifully, allowing you to tailor the meal to your preference.
- Velvety, Balanced Sauce: The heart of this dish is its exquisite sauce. The combination of half-and-half and fresh garlic creates a luxurious, velvety consistency that feels indulgent without being overly heavy. The diced tomatoes add a crucial tangy counterpoint that brightens the entire dish.
- Highly Adaptable: This recipe is a fantastic canvas for customization. Easily swap chicken for shrimp or salmon, add a generous handful of fresh spinach or kale for extra greens, or transform it into a satisfying vegetarian meal by omitting the meat and adding more vegetables or a plant-based protein.
- Fantastic for Meal Prep: One of the best qualities of this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is how wonderfully the leftovers reheat. Make a larger batch, and you’ll have delicious, ready-to-eat lunches or quick dinners for the following days, saving you time and effort.
Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
For the exact measurements and full instructions, please refer to the comprehensive printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delectable pasta dish. Each component plays a vital role in building the rich, balanced flavors:
- Spaghetti or Angel Hair Pasta: While angel hair pasta cooks incredibly fast, making it perfect for a quick meal, regular spaghetti or even fettuccine and penne are excellent alternatives. Choose what you love most for texture and how it holds the sauce.
- Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is preferred for its lean protein and ease of cubing. You can also use chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor and juicier texture.
- Mushrooms: White button mushrooms or cremini (baby bella) mushrooms work wonderfully. Their earthy flavor complements the creamy sauce and chicken perfectly. Ensure they are thinly sliced for even cooking.
- Italian Style Diced Tomatoes: Opt for canned diced tomatoes labeled “Italian style” as they often contain added herbs like basil and oregano, enhancing the Tuscan flavor profile without extra effort.
- Half-n-Half: This is the secret to a rich, creamy sauce that isn’t overly heavy. If you desire a lighter sauce, whole milk can be substituted. For an extra decadent sauce, heavy cream is an excellent choice.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is crucial for the aromatic depth of this dish. Don’t skimp on it – it’s a cornerstone of Tuscan-inspired flavors.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is used for sautéing the chicken and mushrooms, adding a foundational layer of flavor.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary that adds classic Italian warmth to the chicken.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and adjusting the flavor of the final sauce to perfection.
- Parmesan Cheese (for serving): Freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese adds a salty, umami finish that truly brings the dish together.
How To Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta: A Simple Guide
Creating this flavorful pasta dish is incredibly straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfect meal every time:
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of generously salted water. Add your chosen pasta (angel hair or spaghetti works wonderfully) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about a cup of the starchy pasta water before discarding the rest, as this can be used later to adjust sauce consistency if needed. Set the cooked pasta aside.
- Season and Sear the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, dice your chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Season them generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until it’s beautifully browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside, keeping it warm.
- Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Add the thinly sliced mushrooms and cook for 2-3 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to turn golden and tender. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure they brown instead of steam.
- Infuse with Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic with the sautéed mushrooms. Cook for just about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can turn bitter.
- Build the Creamy Sauce: Pour the can of Italian-style diced tomatoes over the mushrooms and garlic. Let this mixture simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Then, gradually stir in the half-and-half. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the pan, mixing them thoroughly into the creamy tomato sauce. Heat everything together for a few minutes, ensuring the chicken is warmed through and coated in the delicious sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Toss with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Using tongs, toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring every strand of pasta is evenly coated in the rich, creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Finish and Serve: Serve your Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta immediately, topped with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. For an added touch of freshness and color, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Enjoy your homemade, restaurant-style meal!
Recipe Tips & Tricks for Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Unlock the full potential of this delightful dish with these expert tips and clever variations:
- Pasta Choice Matters: While angel hair pasta is quick and delicate, don’t hesitate to experiment! Penne, rigatoni, or even orecchiette are great choices as their shapes hold the creamy sauce beautifully. Fettuccine offers a heartier, more substantial noodle. Always cook pasta to al dente for the best texture.
- Boost Your Greens: For an extra dose of nutrition and vibrant color, stir in a couple of handfuls of fresh spinach or finely chopped kale during the last few minutes of cooking. The heat from the sauce will wilt them perfectly. Sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and sliced) are also a fantastic addition, adding a concentrated, tangy sweetness that’s very characteristic of Tuscan flavors.
- Double the Delight for Leftovers: This dish truly shines the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping. Easily double the recipe for convenient lunches or quick dinners later in the week. The flavors tend to deepen overnight.
- Protein Power-Ups: Feel free to swap the chicken for other proteins. Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a delicate seafood flavor. Sliced Italian sausage (mild or spicy) offers a robust, savory kick. For a plant-based option, consider seared halloumi, firm tofu, or cannellini beans.
- Add a Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes (or a bit more, to taste) when you add the garlic. A dash of cayenne pepper also works wonders for a subtle warmth.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Adapting this recipe for dietary needs is simple. Use your favorite gluten-free pasta, ensuring it’s cooked according to package directions, to make this dish accessible for everyone.
- Enhance Flavor with Fresh Herbs: While Italian seasoning provides a great base, finishing the dish with fresh basil or parsley adds a bright, aromatic lift that truly elevates the experience.
- Deglaze for Depth: After cooking the chicken, you might find browned bits (fond) stuck to the bottom of the pan. Before adding the mushrooms, you can deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or chicken broth. Scrape up the fond with a wooden spoon; these bits are packed with flavor that will enrich your sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Absolutely! To prepare ahead, cook the chicken and sauce as directed, then let them cool and store separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and chicken gently on the stovetop, then cook fresh pasta and combine. This ensures the pasta retains its ideal texture.
Yes, it’s very easy to adapt this recipe for vegetarians. Simply omit the chicken. You can boost the vegetable content by adding extra mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or a generous amount of fresh spinach. For protein, consider adding cannellini beans, chickpeas, or seared plant-based chicken substitutes. You could also use a plant-based cream alternative.
Yes, the sauce and cooked chicken freeze exceptionally well for up to 3 months in an airtight container. However, pasta can become mushy when thawed and reheated. For best results, freeze the chicken and sauce separately, and cook fresh pasta when you plan to enjoy the defrosted sauce. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
This rich pasta dish pairs beautifully with a simple side. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast. Crusty garlic bread or focaccia is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious sauce. A dry white wine like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc would also complement the flavors nicely.
If your sauce is too thick, gradually add small amounts of the reserved pasta water (or chicken broth) until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce, or stir in a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese, which can help thicken it slightly.
More Easy Dinner Recipes to Explore
If you loved this quick and flavorful Tuscan Chicken Pasta, you’ll definitely want to try these other simple and delicious dinner ideas:
- Creamy Chicken and Rice
- BLT Salad
- Instant Pot BBQ Chicken
- Chicken Lo Mein
- Bruschetta Chicken
- Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
- Creamy Beef Pasta
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Erin Sellin
5 minutes
20 minutes
25 minutes
4
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Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti, (or angel hair pasta, for quick cooking)
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 teaspoons olive oil, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (8 oz) package cremini or white button mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
- 15 oz Italian style diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup half-n-half, can substitute whole milk for a lighter sauce or heavy cream for a richer one
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the spaghetti or angel hair pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water, then set aside.
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While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet or deep pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 teaspoon of olive oil, swirling to coat the pan. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the hot pan and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and keep it warm.
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Add the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil to the same pan. Add the thinly sliced mushrooms and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften and begin to brown. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
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Pour the can of undrained Italian-style diced tomatoes over the mushrooms and garlic. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in the half-and-half, bringing the sauce to a gentle simmer. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and heat until everything is warmed through. Taste the sauce and season with additional salt and pepper to your preference.
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Toss everything together using tongs until the pasta is thoroughly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Serve immediately, topped generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 42g |
Protein: 55g |
Fat: 22g |
Saturated Fat: 8g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 13g |
Cholesterol: 155mg |
Sodium: 876mg |
Fiber: 3g |
Sugar: 8g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
Erin Sellin
5 minutes
20 minutes
25 minutes
Dinner, Main Course, Pasta
American, Italian-inspired
4
598
Chicken Pasta, Creamy Pasta, Tuscan Chicken, Easy Dinner, Weeknight Meal
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