If you’re looking to bring the comforting flavors of Tuscany to your dinner table, look no further than this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe. It combines tender chicken, a rich, cheesy sauce, and your favorite pasta for a dish that is as satisfying as it is simple to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe offers a taste of Italy with minimal effort, and it’s sure to become a family favorite!
A Taste of Tuscany at Home
Inspired by the rustic yet elegant cuisine of Tuscany, this dish incorporates bold flavors such as garlic, Parmesan, and Romano cheeses, all melded together with tender chicken and a creamy sauce. The result is a luxurious pasta meal that feels like dining in a cozy Tuscan kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken tenderloin: The star protein, tender and flavorful when cooked to perfection.
- Chicken broth & half and half: These form the base of the creamy sauce, adding depth and richness.
- Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and more: A blend of herbs and spices infuses the dish with robust flavor.
- Parmesan and Romano cheeses: These Italian cheeses melt into the sauce, giving it a smooth and creamy texture.
- Pasta: Any variety will do—penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti will all pair beautifully with the sauce.
Easy Steps to Tuscan Pasta Perfection:
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice chicken tenderloins and season them with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs before lightly coating them in flour. This helps them develop a crispy exterior when seared.
- Sear and Rest: Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the chicken until golden. Allow it to rest before slicing it into strips.
- Deglaze the Skillet: Use chicken broth to lift all those flavorful bits left behind in the skillet after cooking the chicken. This adds even more depth to the sauce.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Butter, garlic, and flour form the foundation of the sauce, which is enhanced with half and half, chicken broth, and bouillon.
- Incorporate the Cheeses: Parmesan and Romano cheeses are melted into the sauce for a rich and savory finish.
- Combine with Pasta: Finally, toss the cooked pasta and chicken strips in the sauce, ensuring every piece is generously coated.
Chef’s Tips:
- Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: Save a cup of pasta water before draining. It can help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick, adding a silky finish.
- Optional Lemon Zest: A hint of lemon zest can brighten the flavors, cutting through the richness of the sauce.
Serve this dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and an extra grating of Parmesan for garnish. Pair it with a side of crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce, and perhaps a light salad to round out the meal. Whether it’s for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta will bring a touch of Italy to your table.
PrintCreamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
Indulge in a luscious Italian-inspired dish that combines savory chicken tenderloin with a creamy cheese sauce, perfectly paired with your favorite pasta. This quick and satisfying meal is perfect for any night of the week, enveloping you in rich flavors reminiscent of a Tuscan kitchen.
Ingredients
– Chicken tenderloin
– Chicken broth
– Flour
– Garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 1/4 cups half and half
– 1/2 chicken bouillon cube
– 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/3 cup grated Romano cheese
– 1/2 lb. pasta of choice
– 1 lemon optional
– 1/2 teaspoon EACH: onion powder, garlic salt, oregano, basil, mustard powder, parsley all dried
– 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
1. Blend half and half with chicken broth and all dried seasonings. Set aside.
2. Slice chicken tenderloin in half lengthwise to form thinner cuts. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then lightly cover with flour.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned chicken until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes, then cut into strips.
4. While the water for the pasta is boiling, deglaze the skillet with chicken broth, incorporating any flavorful remnants from the pan bottom.
5. Once the broth has reduced, add butter and minced garlic. Let it sizzle for a minute, then stir in flour, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Gradually mix in the pre-prepared chicken broth/half and half mixture. Add the bouillon cube and maintain a low simmer.
7. Cook pasta in boiling salted water until al dente, reserving a cup of pasta water before draining.
8. Melt Parmesan and Romano cheeses into the sauce, stirring until smooth.
9. Combine the drained pasta and sauced chicken strips, stirring until evenly coated.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes