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- 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - Salt and pepper, to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup chicken broth - 2 cups fresh spinach - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Spinach

Discover the flavors of Italy with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Spinach recipe. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a luscious creamy sauce to create a comforting dish that’s both impressive and easy to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, you can enjoy a gourmet meal at home. Elevate your cooking and delight your family and friends with this satisfying pasta dish.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or linguine pasta

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1 lb/450 g)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

4 cloves of garlic, minced

1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed for added flavor, if available)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

    Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper.

      Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet set over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.

        Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for roughly 1 minute, or until fragrant, ensuring not to let it burn. Next, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.

          Incorporate Cream and Broth: Pour the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring well to combine. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, if using. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

            Add Spinach: Toss in the fresh spinach and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring until wilted. Then, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

              Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the skillet, gently tossing everything together until evenly coated in the luscious sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

                Serve and Garnish: Serve the creamy Tuscan chicken pasta hot, garnishing with fresh basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan on top, if desired.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4

                    - Presentation Tips: Consider plating the pasta in shallow bowls, twirling the pasta with a fork for an elegant presentation. Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a few whole basil leaves for added color before serving.