Rich, comforting, and irresistibly creamy, One-Pot Creamy Garlic Tuscan Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or indulgent weekends. From its silky, garlic-infused sauce to the tender chicken, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach nestled between perfectly cooked penne pasta, this recipe delivers layers of deliciousness in every bite. And the best part? It all comes together in just one pan, saving you from a mountain of dishes!

Craving a crowd-pleaser? This recipe is equal parts decadent and simple to prepare. Read on for the full breakdown, so you can whip up this restaurant-quality dish at home.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you get started, here’s everything you’ll need to make this one-pot masterpiece. We’ve also included substitution options to suit your preferences:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta (substitute with rigatoni or farfalle if preferred)
• 1½ lbs chicken breast, sliced thin (swap for chicken thighs or a plant-based alternative)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (use vegetable oil if needed)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to your garlic-loving preference)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (a mix of dried thyme, oregano, basil, and rosemary if you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes, optional (skip this if you prefer a milder flavor)
• 2 cups baby spinach (kale or arugula work as substitutes)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (drain excess oil for a less rich option)
• 2 cups heavy cream (use half-and-half for a lighter dish)
• 1¼ cups chicken broth (veggie broth works for a vegetarian version)
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (swap with Pecorino Romano for a saltier kick)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish 🌿

Bonus Tip:

Feel free to get creative with extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Creamy Pasta

Follow these simple steps to create a luscious bowl of Creamy Garlic Tuscan Chicken Pasta in under 40 minutes:

1. Sauté the Chicken

Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Meanwhile, season your thinly sliced chicken breasts with a pinch of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden and fully cooked (about 5–6 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

2. Make the Garlic Sauce

Using the same skillet, add your minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Next, pour in 2 cups of heavy cream and 1¼ cups chicken broth, stirring to combine. The aroma is already divine!

3. Cook the Pasta

Here’s where the magic happens. Add uncooked penne pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Stir well to ensure everything is coated, then bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the creamy, garlicky goodness.

4. Combine and Finish

When your pasta is tender, mix in the baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and ¾ cup Parmesan cheese. Stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts, creating a creamy, cohesive sauce. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan, toss to coat, and cook until everything is heated through.

5. Serve and Garnish

Dish up your delicious Creamy Garlic Tuscan Chicken Pasta while it’s piping hot. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley and sprinkle on some extra Parmesan for good measure. Voilà, dinner is served!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Results

• Stir Often: To avoid pasta sticking to the bottom of the skillet, stir the mixture at regular intervals while it simmers.
• Adjust for Spice: Love extra heat? Add a touch more red pepper flakes. Prefer it mild? Omit them altogether.
• Control the Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream until you reach the desired consistency.
• Make it Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a little extra broth or cream to revive the sauce.

Nutritional Information

Each serving (~1/6 of the recipe) of this creamy pasta delight provides:

• Calories: ~620
• Protein: ~32g
• Carbohydrates: ~50g
• Fat: ~31g

Please note, nutritional information may vary based on substitutions and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Creamy Garlic Tuscan Chicken Pasta with the following for a complete meal:

• A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette
• Warm, crusty garlic bread for soaking up extra sauce
• A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing touch

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This one-pot wonder has something for everyone:

• Easy and convenient with minimal cleanup
• Packed with rich, vibrant flavors
• Highly customizable to fit your dietary preferences
• Perfect for both family dinners and special occasions

Storage and Reheating Tips

To enjoy leftovers at their best, follow these simple storage and reheating tips:

• Storage: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating (Stovetop): Heat the meal in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Reheating (Microwave): Use a microwave-safe dish, and reheat on medium power in 1-2 minute intervals. Stir between intervals to ensure even heating. Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture.
• Reheating (Oven): Transfer the dish to an oven-safe container, cover with foil, and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Proper storage and reheating keep the flavors intact while maintaining the dish’s quality!

FAQ

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain its flavors and texture.

Can I substitute ingredients to make it gluten-free or vegetarian?

Yes! To make it gluten-free, simply replace any wheat-based ingredients with gluten-free alternatives. For a vegetarian version, swap out the meat or protein with plant-based options like tofu, tempeh, or hearty vegetables such as mushrooms or eggplant.

What can I do with leftovers?

Leftovers are incredibly versatile! You can enjoy them as a stand-alone meal, repurpose them into a wrap or sandwich, or serve alongside a different side dish for variety.

How do I know when it’s done cooking?

Ensure that all the main ingredients are tender and flavors are well combined. If the recipe includes meat, check that it has reached the recommended internal temperature for safe consumption.