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Creamy One-Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta: Easy 30-Minute Dinner

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A quick and easy one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a velvety cream sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want comfort food without the fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup (60g) sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 2 cups (480ml) low-sodium chicken broth
  • 8 oz (225g) short pasta (penne, rigatoni, or similar)
  • 3 cups (90g) fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning. Let them sit while you get the other ingredients ready.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken thighs in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Transfer to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic to the pan. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the heavy cream, remaining Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine.
  5. Add the uncooked pasta directly to the sauce. Stir well to submerge. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a steady simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente (10-12 minutes). If sauce gets too thick, add a splash of water or extra broth.
  6. Once pasta is tender, add the fresh spinach in handfuls. Stir gently until wilted (about 1 minute).
  7. Remove pan from heat. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top and stir until melted.
  8. Slice the reserved chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add back to the pan and stir gently. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan and don’t skip searing the chicken. Stir pasta occasionally to prevent sticking. Let the dish rest 2-3 minutes before serving to allow sauce to thicken. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of milk or broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: Tuscan chicken pasta, one-pot pasta, creamy pasta, easy weeknight dinner, 30-minute meal, chicken pasta recipe

Find it online: https://shimmersnack.com/creamy-one-pot-tuscan-chicken-pasta-easy-30-minute-dinner/