If you crave hearty pasta with a punch, you’re in for a treat with Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta! This unforgettable dish has everything: tender chunks of seasoned chicken, sun-dried tomatoes that burst with flavor, spinach for a fresh herbal note, and a luxuriously creamy sauce spiked with a bit of heat. It’s the kind of meal that will instantly warm you up and make everyone at the table reach for seconds. With its vibrant colors and bold, savory Tuscan flavors, Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is the answer to both busy weeknights and special gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simple ingredient list fool you; each item plays a starring role in building layers of flavor, from the juicy chicken and sun-dried tomatoes to the final lush swirl of Parmesan. When these basics come together, magic truly happens in a single skillet.
- Pasta (12 ounces penne or rigatoni): Opt for sturdy shapes that cradle all that spicy, creamy sauce in every bite.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Brings a subtly fruity base for sautéing and adds richness to the sauce.
- Chicken Breast (1 pound, boneless, skinless, cut bite-sized): The protein star of the dish, soaking up all the herby spices.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning every layer, from pasta water to the final sauce.
- Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a gentle warmth, amplifying the flavors.
- Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): A savory blend that infuses irresistible Mediterranean depth.
- Red Pepper Flakes (½ teaspoon, adjust to taste): The main source of heat that gives this Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta its signature kick.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Deepens the flavor base with its robust aroma.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes (½ cup, oil-packed, drained and chopped): Add a sweet-tangy pop and beautiful color.
- Chicken Broth (1 cup): Creates a flavorful foundation, making the sauce supremely sippable.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): The secret to that irresistibly velvety, rich sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): Melts into the sauce for salty, nutty goodness.
- Fresh Spinach (2 cups): Wilts beautifully, bringing both freshness and color.
- Fresh Basil (for garnish): A finishing touch that brightens every plate.
How to Make Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne or rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until perfectly al dente. Before you drain the pasta, remember to scoop out about half a cup of the pasta water—this starchy liquid gold will help bring the sauce together later. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Drop the seasoned chicken into the pan, spreading them in a single layer. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through, stirring occasionally for an even sear.
Step 3: Layer in Flavor
Once the chicken’s looking irresistibly bronzed, stir in the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Let them sizzle for about a minute—just until the garlic turns fragrant and the tomatoes soften, filling your kitchen with that classic Tuscan aroma.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then give everything a gentle stir. Bring it to a simmer so the flavors can meld and the sauce thickens ever so slightly. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce for that ultracreamy finish. The aromas at this stage are truly something magical!
Step 5: Add Spinach and Combine
Scatter the fresh spinach into the skillet, gently folding it in so it wilts down into the sauce. Return the cooked pasta to the pan, tossing everything together so each noodle is perfectly coated. If the sauce feels too thick, loosen it up with a splash or two of that reserved pasta water until silky and glossy. The final result? Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta ready to steal the spotlight!
How to Serve Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Garnishes
Right before serving, sprinkle plenty of fresh basil over the top for a burst of color and herby aroma. A final dusting of grated Parmesan never hurts, and if you’re a true heat seeker, an extra pinch of red pepper flakes gives a fiery flourish worthy of your Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta.
Side Dishes
This pasta shines alongside crusty Italian bread, ideal for mopping up every last bit of sauce. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables also make the perfect partners, keeping things balanced and bright on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, plate the Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta family-style in a wide, shallow bowl or rustic platter, letting the colors and textures pop. Top each portion with a basil leaf for a restaurant-worthy look or twirl the pasta into individual nests for an elegant (but totally doable) touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, allow the pasta to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, your Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta will stay delicious for up to three days without losing its creamy allure.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze this dish, but keep in mind the cream sauce may separate a bit upon reheating. Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To restore that silky sauce, gently reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen as needed. If using a microwave, stir after every minute to avoid overheating and keep everything creamy and luscious.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring an extra layer of juiciness and flavor to Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta. Just be sure to trim any excess fat and adjust the cooking time as needed since they might take a minute longer to cook through.
Is there a way to make this dish less spicy?
Of course. Reduce or skip the red pepper flakes for a milder experience—your pasta will still have all those signature Tuscan flavors, just without as much heat. You can also leave out the optional cayenne for extra delicacy.
Can I make Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta gluten-free?
Definitely! Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta (such as brown rice or chickpea-based varieties) and double-check that your broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free for a safe, satisfying meal.
What vegetables could I add or substitute?
You can customize your Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta by adding sautéed mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or roasted bell peppers. These all blend seamlessly with the creamy, spicy sauce for extra flavor and texture.
Can I use light cream or milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, half-and-half works well for a lighter version, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. Whole milk can be used in a pinch, but you might want to simmer a bit longer to help the sauce thicken up properly.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite as satisfying as sharing a big, flavor-packed bowl of Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with those you love. If you’re seeking a dinner that’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests, this is the recipe to try. It’s truly a little taste of Italy with every forkful—enjoy every spicy, creamy, delicious bite!
Print
Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and flavorful Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, a creamy Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a decadent sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta
Chicken:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained and chopped)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente; reserve ½ cup pasta water.
- Cook Chicken: Season and cook chicken in olive oil until browned.
- Make Sauce: Add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, broth, cream, and cheese; simmer. Add spinach.
- Combine: Toss in pasta, adjust consistency with pasta water.
- Serve: Garnish with basil and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra heat, add cayenne pepper with red pepper flakes.
- Substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: about 2 cups
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg
