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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the rich and satisfying flavours of a Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta. This dish combines succulent chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a luscious cream sauce, all served over tender pasta for a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply wish to treat yourself to something special, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

For this delectable dish, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 250g of your choice of pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work well)
• Salt, for boiling water

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to season
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)

For the Sauce:

• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 200ml double cream
• 150ml chicken stock
• 100g sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 150g fresh spinach
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the pan and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F). Remove the chicken from the pan, allowing it to rest before slicing it into strips.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same frying pan, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, pour in the chicken stock, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes before adding in the double cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Combine Everything
As the sauce thickens, add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and well incorporated. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a splash of the reserved pasta water. Finally, fold in the cooked pasta and sliced chicken, ensuring everything is coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Serve
Transfer the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and relish the mouthwatering flavours.

Tips for the Perfect Tuscan Chicken Pasta

• Chicken Substitutes: If you prefer, this recipe works beautifully with turkey or even prawns as a substitute for chicken.
• Veggie Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavour.
• Make It Ahead: The creamy sauce can be made in advance and reheated when you’re ready to serve. Just add the cooked pasta and chicken just before serving to keep everything fresh.

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a wonderful way to bring the tastes of Italy into your kitchen. With its rich flavours and comforting textures, it’s bound to become a beloved dish in your home. Enjoy it with a crisp side salad and a glass of white wine for a truly delightful dining experience!