Looking for a quick, tasty dinner? One Pan Tuscan Chicken Pasta is the answer. This dish combines juicy chicken, fresh spinach, and vibrant cherry tomatoes in creamy sauce. It’s easy to make and clean up since everything cooks in one pan. Perfect for busy weeknights, you can enjoy a flavorful meal in just 30 minutes. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to whip up this delightful dish!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
– 8 oz (225g) penne pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cups fresh spinach
Pantry Staples
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning and Fats
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
Gathering the right ingredients makes cooking fun and easy. The main ingredients form the base of our One Pan Tuscan Chicken Pasta. You need diced chicken for protein, penne pasta for heartiness, cherry tomatoes for sweetness, and fresh spinach for color and nutrition.
In your pantry, you will find staples like garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. These add depth and creaminess to your dish.
Lastly, don’t forget about seasoning. Olive oil gives flavor and moisture. Italian seasoning adds a warm, herbaceous note. Salt and pepper enhance all other flavors. Fresh basil at the end brightens the dish and adds a lovely touch.
For the complete recipe, refer to the Full Recipe section!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Heat olive oil in a large skillet.
– Dice chicken and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
To start, I heat two tablespoons of olive oil in my skillet over medium heat. Then, I dice two boneless, skinless chicken breasts. I sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to add flavor. This makes the chicken juicy and tasty.
Cooking Process
– Add chicken to the skillet, cook until browned.
– Sauté garlic, then add cherry tomatoes.
– Stir in chicken broth and penne pasta.
– Cover, cook until pasta is al dente.
Next, I add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet. I cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes until it’s browned. This step is key for flavor. After that, I toss in three minced garlic cloves and sauté for about one minute. The smell is amazing! Then, I add one cup of halved cherry tomatoes. I cook them for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften. Now, it’s time to stir in one cup of chicken broth and 8 ounces of penne pasta. I make sure the pasta is covered in the liquid. I cover the skillet and cook until the pasta is al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes.
Final Touches
– Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
– Add spinach and cooked chicken back to skillet.
– Adjust seasoning as needed.
Once the pasta is ready, I turn the heat to low and stir in half a cup of heavy cream and half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This makes a rich, creamy sauce. I then add two cups of fresh spinach and the cooked chicken back to the skillet. I gently mix everything until the spinach wilts. I taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. The dish is now ready! For the full recipe, check the earlier section.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Use a large enough skillet for even cooking.
– Stir pasta occasionally to prevent sticking.
When you cook One Pan Tuscan Chicken Pasta, the size of your skillet matters. A bigger pan helps heat spread evenly. This keeps the chicken juicy and the pasta from clumping. Stirring the pasta is key. It prevents it from sticking together. Plus, it helps every piece soak up the sauce.
Presentation Tips
– Serve in large bowls with fresh basil.
– Add extra Parmesan for enhanced flavor.
For a beautiful finish, serve the pasta in large bowls. A sprinkle of fresh basil adds color and great taste. I also love to add extra Parmesan on top. It melts into the warm pasta, making each bite even better.
Flavor Enhancements
– Mix in red pepper flakes for spice.
– Substitute chicken with shrimp or sausage.
If you like a kick, add red pepper flakes while cooking. It gives the dish a nice heat. You can also swap chicken for shrimp or sausage. Both options change the flavor and keep things interesting.
Variations
Ingredient Variations
You can easily change the pasta shape. Swap penne for fusilli. Fusilli holds sauce well. You can also add different vegetables to this dish. Try using zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
Dietary Adjustments
Want to make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta instead of regular penne. This change keeps the dish tasty for everyone. If you want to cut dairy, replace heavy cream with a dairy-free option. Coconut milk works well and adds a nice touch.
Flavor Profiles
For a richer taste, try adding sun-dried tomatoes. They bring a sweet and tangy flavor. Fresh herbs elevate the dish, too. Incorporate oregano or thyme for added aroma and depth. These small changes make a big difference in your meal.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
After you enjoy your meal, let the pasta cool. Then, transfer it to airtight containers. This helps keep it fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to eat again, you can reheat the pasta. Use either the stove or microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it moist. Make sure it gets heated all the way through before you serve it.
Freezing Tips
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze it. The pasta can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This way, it will be ready to heat up the next day.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
– Yes, but ensure it’s completely thawed before cooking. Frozen chicken can alter the cook time. Thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the microwave. This way, your chicken will cook evenly and stay juicy.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
– Omit chicken and replace with more vegetables or plant-based protein. Try mushrooms, zucchini, or chickpeas. You can still enjoy those tasty flavors without meat. Just ensure your veggies are cooked to your liking.
What can I serve with One Pan Tuscan Chicken Pasta?
– Pair with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A light salad adds freshness, while garlic bread adds a nice crunch. Both options balance the creamy pasta and enhance your meal.
How long does it take to make One Pan Tuscan Chicken Pasta?
– Total time is about 30 minutes, including prep and cook time. This makes it a quick weeknight dinner. You can have a delicious meal ready in no time, even on busy nights!
Where can I find the full recipe?
– Check out the detailed instructions in the “Step-by-Step Instructions” section. You’ll find everything you need to make this tasty dish.
This blog post gave a clear view of making One Pan Tuscan Chicken Pasta. You learned about key ingredients like chicken, pasta, and spinach. I shared step-by-step cooking instructions, helpful tips, and ways to adjust flavors. You can also store leftovers easily.
Whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a quick meal, this dish is a winner. Enjoy your cooking journey!
