This One Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a creamy and flavorful dish that brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen! It’s packed with chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach.
The best part? Everything cooks in one pot, so you have less to clean up afterward. Plus, the sauce is oh-so-easy to whip up—just mix and stir! Enjoy a cozy meal without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A must for sautéing, olive oil adds richness. If you’re looking for a different flavor, avocado oil works well too. Extra virgin olive oil is great for a more robust taste.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to for this dish because they cook quickly. You can use thighs for added moisture or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version!
Pasta: I use penne for its ability to hold sauce. If you’re out, try fusilli or farfalle. For a gluten-free option, there are plenty of gluten-free pasta brands on the market.
Heavy Cream: This creates a creamy texture. You can substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream if you prefer. Just be mindful of the flavors they may add.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano can be a great substitute. Nutritional yeast works well in vegan dishes too!
How Do You Cook Pasta Perfectly in One Pot?
Cooking pasta in one pot can be tricky, but it’s all about timing and water ratios. Here’s what to watch for:
- Ensure the chicken broth and cream cover the pasta well; too little liquid can lead to uneven cooking.
- Start on medium heat to bring it to a boil, then reduce to medium-low for a gentle simmer.
- Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, especially in the last few minutes!
- Check for doneness by tasting the pasta a minute before the suggested cooking time. It should be al dente!
How to Make One Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dish:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta (uncooked)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for mild heat
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This One Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
In a large deep skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
Using the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Cook the Cherry Tomatoes:
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pot. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices. This adds a nice flavor to the dish.
4. Add Pasta and Liquids:
Pour in the uncooked penne pasta. Then, add the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in the dried Italian seasoning and a pinch of salt to season everything well.
5. Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is fully cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
6. Add Spinach and Chicken:
Once the pasta is ready, stir in the fresh spinach and the cooked chicken pieces. Allow the spinach to wilt for about 2 minutes.
7. Mix in Cheese:
Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the pot. Stir until it melts and creates a creamy sauce. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with more salt, black pepper, and if you like, some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley and more Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful One Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Yes, you can! While penne is recommended for its shape, you can substitute it with fusilli, farfalle, or any pasta you have on hand. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if you use a different pasta type!
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No worries! You can use vegetable broth or even water in a pinch. If using water, you may need to add more spices to enhance the flavor, since broth is typically richer.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables, like mushrooms or zucchini, and consider adding chickpeas for protein. You can also use vegetable broth for a fully vegetarian dish!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to keep it from drying out.