Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne

If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s bursting with flavor and creamy goodness, look no further than this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that feels indulgent yet comes together quickly. Juicy, tender chicken melds beautifully with a luscious sauce loaded with fresh spinach, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a rich Parmesan cream base. Tossed with al dente penne pasta, it’s a comfort food winner that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress with minimal effort.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

What makes Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne so irresistible? First off, the combination of juicy chicken and creamy sauce is a classic that appeals to almost every palate. The sauce itself is silky and flavorful, thanks to garlic, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese, while the fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes add bursts of color and freshness. Plus, penne pasta is perfect for holding onto the sauce, ensuring every bite is deliciously coated. This dish strikes the perfect balance between rich and fresh, making it a hit whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion. It’s also versatile enough to pair with a simple green salad or roasted veggies, rounding out a wholesome meal.

Ingredient Checklist

• 12 oz penne pasta – the pasta base that soaks up all the creamy sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing and adding healthy fat.
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced – tender protein to make the dish hearty.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – aromatic and flavorful foundation.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – adds sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1 cup fresh spinach – for a healthy green boost and freshness.
• 1 cup heavy cream – creates the luscious, silky sauce.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds umami and depth.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – herbaceous notes that tie the flavors together.
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential for seasoning.
• Fresh basil for garnish – optional but adds a lovely aroma and color contrast.

Before You Start: Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta – to cook penne to al dente perfection.
• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking chicken and making the sauce.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – to stir and combine ingredients.
• Colander – for draining the pasta.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient portions.
• Sharp knife and cutting board – to dice chicken and prep veggies.

From Start to Finish: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne

Step 1: Cook the Penne

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-11 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften and release their juices.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Cream

Add 1 cup fresh spinach and stir until it wilts, roughly 1-2 minutes. Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and sprinkle 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Incorporate Cheese and Chicken

Slowly add 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and the sauce thickens. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet with the sauce and toss gently to combine everything evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Serve the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and aroma. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Seasonal Serving Ideas

• In spring, serve alongside a crisp asparagus salad with lemon vinaigrette.
• Summer calls for a fresh tomato and cucumber salad with herbs.
• In autumn, roasted butternut squash or Brussels sprouts complement the richness nicely.
• During winter, pair with creamy mashed potatoes or sautéed green beans for warmth.

Testing Timeline

• Tested pasta doneness at 10 minutes for al dente texture.
• Checked chicken tenderness and internal temperature after 7 minutes to ensure fully cooked.
• Monitored sauce thickness as cheese melted to achieve perfect creaminess.
• Adjusted seasoning throughout cooking to balance flavors.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Allow leftovers to cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between for even heating.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Diced chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and stay juicy. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked.

Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version, but the sauce may be less thick and creamy.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. You can also try the Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Cutlets for a similar flavor profile with a vegetarian twist using plant-based protein.

How can I make the sauce extra flavorful?

Try adding a splash of white wine before the cream or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano also elevate the dish. For a different creamy texture, you might enjoy the Alfredo Sauce Recipe as a base.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Rigatoni – another creamy pasta option with a smoky twist.
• Alfredo Sauce Recipe – a versatile sauce to elevate any pasta dish.
• Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Cutlets – a protein-packed dinner with rich flavors.

That’s a Wrap

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Penne is the ideal recipe when you want a dish that’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce never fails to impress. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Give it a try and enjoy every creamy, comforting bite.

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