Name: Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1 pound); 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 8 ounces rigatoni pasta noodles (cooked al dente according to package instructions); 4 tablespoons (½ stick, 57 g) unsalted butter; ¼ cup (40 g) shallot, finely diced; ¼ cup (27.5 g) sun-dried tomatoes, softened in hot water and chopped; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 ½ cups (357 g) heavy cream; 1 ½ cups (245 g) milk; 1 cup (30 g) fresh spinach; 1 cup (100 g) Parmesan cheese, grated (plus more for garnish); 1 cup (149 g) cherry tomatoes, halved; Fresh parsley, for garnish; Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 3 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that brings together creamy, savory, and vibrant flavors in one unforgettable plate, this Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender, seasoned chicken breasts baked to perfection rest atop rigatoni envelopes soaked in a rich cream sauce bursting with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and parmesan cheese. Every bite feels like a warm embrace, combining rustic Italian spirit with comforting home-cooked goodness. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special occasion centerpiece, this pasta dish never fails to impress with its beautiful balance of textures and flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Two raw chicken breasts lie side by side on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. Surrounding the plate are ingredients: yellow rigatoni pasta scattered around the plate on the surface, a small bowl of grated white cheese to the left, a bowl of red tomato paste below the cheese, fresh green parsley and a pink shallot below the plate. To the right of the plate is fresh green spinach, a small bowl of golden olive oil, and a small bowl with reddish-brown seasoning. Cherry tomatoes, some whole and some halved, are arranged above the plate, along with a small wooden bowl of green herbs near the top left corner. The scene is well-lit, showing the colors and textures clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe comes alive with a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the tender chicken giving protein and savoriness, to the creamy sauce that wraps the rigatoni noodles in luscious flavor. The sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of tang and sweetness, while the spinach brings fresh earthiness and color to the dish.

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Perfectly sized for even cooking and juicy, tender bites.
3 tablespoons olive oil: Divided for searing the chicken and enhancing flavor.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds warmth and subtle smokiness to the chicken seasoning.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses savory depth to both chicken and sauce layers.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for bringing all flavors together.
½ teaspoon black pepper: For just the right amount of heat and earthiness.
8 ounces rigatoni pasta: Holds sauce beautifully in its ridges and tubes.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates the silky base of the cream sauce.
¼ cup finely diced shallot: Adds gentle sweetness and aromatic layers.
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes: Soaked and chopped for chewy, tangy bursts.
1 teaspoon minced garlic: Powers up the sauce’s flavor with freshness.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrated tomato richness to boost the sauce.
1 teaspoon oregano: Brings classic Italian herb notes.
1 ½ cups heavy cream: Velvety and rich, the heart of the sauce’s texture.
1 ½ cups milk: Lightens the cream just enough for perfect consistency.
1 cup fresh spinach: Adds vibrant green color and a healthy touch.
1 cup grated parmesan cheese: Melts beautifully to round out the sauce with umami.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Fresh sweetness for contrast and popping color.
Fresh parsley: A lively garnish to brighten every forkful.
Salt and pepper to taste: To balance and finish off the dish perfectly.

How to Make Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Take those chicken breasts and give them a good drizzle of olive oil, rubbing it over every side—that helps the seasoning stick like a dream. Mix the paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper in a small bowl, then sprinkle this fragrant blend evenly over the chicken. Heat the last tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, and sear the chicken breasts until beautifully browned, about 3 minutes each side. Remember, you’re not cooking them through just yet! Once seared, place the skillet in the oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes until the internal temperature reads 165°F. Let the chicken rest while you move on to the sauce; this step ensures juicy, flavorful meat.

Step 2: Prepare the Rigatoni Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni to al dente according to the package instructions, typically about 14 minutes. Al dente means the pasta will still be firm to the bite, which is essential because it will continue to cook slightly once combined with the sauce. Once done, drain and set aside but don’t rinse—the sauce needs that starchy pasta surface to cling perfectly.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Tuscan Sauce

Using the same skillet where you cooked the chicken (all those flavorful browned bits are pure gold), melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the finely diced shallots and softened sun-dried tomatoes, letting them soften gently for around 3 to 5 minutes. When the shallots become translucent, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Next, add the tomato paste and sprinkle in oregano, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything to combine and tease out the rich flavors. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring carefully to create a silky sauce base. Let this mixture simmer on low for 8 to 10 minutes with the fresh spinach, grated parmesan, and halved cherry tomatoes. This process allows the cheese to melt fully and the spinach to wilt, creating a luscious sauce ready to embrace the rigatoni.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked rigatoni straight into the skillet with your creamy sauce, tossing gently to coat every pasta tube in that savory richness. Slice or cube the baked chicken, then fold it into the pasta and sauce mixture. Give everything a final taste, adjusting salt and pepper as needed. The dish should have a lovely balance of creamy, tangy, and herby flavors, punctuated by tender chicken bites. Serve it all warm, topped with some extra parmesan and fresh parsley for that perfect finishing touch.

How to Serve Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

A white bowl filled with creamy pasta is shown in close view. The dish has three main layers: the bottom layer is tube-shaped pasta with a pale yellow color, the middle layer has cherry tomato halves that are bright red, and the top layer consists of pieces of light brown chicken mixed with wilted dark green spinach leaves, all covered in a thick, creamy orange sauce with specks of black pepper and green herbs sprinkled on top. The bowl sits on a round wooden board with a dark brown cloth visible to the side, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe to restaurant quality, fresh parsley and additional grated parmesan are your best friends. The parsley brings a pop of color and fresh brightness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce, while a generous sprinkling of parmesan adds an irresistible savory finish and slight nuttiness. Feel free to add a light drizzle of olive oil or a crack of fresh black pepper to enhance the presentation and flavor further.

Side Dishes

This pasta is quite a hearty meal on its own, but if you want to round out the plate, consider a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness, or some roasted asparagus drizzled with lemon. Garlic bread or warm, crusty Italian bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover cream sauce—you really don’t want to waste a single drop!

Creative Ways to Present

For a special twist, try serving the Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets right out of the oven, garnished with fresh herbs. You can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts or crushed red pepper flakes on top for texture and a hint of spice. Pair it with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a delightful dining experience at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Tuscan Chicken Pasta can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The cream sauce might thicken as it cools, so stir it gently when reheating and consider adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back that silky texture.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to store the pasta and sauce separate from the chicken to maintain the best texture. Freeze them in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat your Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe on low heat in a skillet or saucepan, stirring occasionally. Add a little milk or cream if the sauce has become too thick. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to heat evenly without drying out the chicken or pasta.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta with this recipe?

Absolutely! While rigatoni works wonderfully due to its shape and texture, penne, fusilli, or penne rigate will also hold the creamy sauce beautifully and provide a similar rustic feel.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk with a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken the sauce, although it won’t be quite as rich and velvety.

Can I prepare this recipe without sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, but the sun-dried tomatoes add a unique tangy sweetness that balances the creamy sauce. If you skip them, consider adding a bit more fresh tomatoes or a splash of balsamic vinegar for that subtle acidity.

How can I make the chicken more flavorful?

Marinating the chicken for 30 minutes before cooking in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs can boost the flavor. Also, ensuring a good sear on the chicken adds delicious caramelized notes.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe reheats beautifully and makes for excellent next-day lunches or dinners. Just keep the chicken and pasta sauce stored properly for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe, it will quickly become a beloved favorite in your kitchen. The blend of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant veggies invites cozy comfort with every bite. Don’t hesitate to dive in, share with friends or family, and enjoy the warm, heartening flavors that make this dish so special. It’s simple to prepare but sure to impress anyone lucky enough to taste it!

Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need