Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Italy with a delightful dish of Cheesy Tuscan Chicken Sun-Dried Rotini. This recipe is a weeknight savior, effortlessly combining creamy parmesan-coated chicken bites with tangy sun-dried tomatoes and spinach-infused rotini pasta. The aroma of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes simmering together will make it hard to resist sneaking a taste before dinner is served.

Adding a touch of fresh basil not only elevates the dish but also transports you to a sunny Tuscan villa with every bite. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family meal or hosting a spontaneous gathering, this flavorful recipe is sure to impress and vanish off the plates in no time. The versatility of this dish allows for personalization – from using different pasta shapes to opting for lighter ingredients like half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Embrace the essence of Tuscan cuisine with this Cheesy Tuscan Chicken Sun-Dried Rotini creation that promises to bring warmth and comfort to your table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional garlic, herbs, or wine to tailor the flavors to your liking, making each bite a savory delight. Whether enjoyed fresh or reheated, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser that captures the heart of Italian culinary traditions.

Quick Benefits

• Creamy and Comforting: The dish combines creamy parmesan-flecked chicken bites with tangy sun-dried tomato and spinach rotini, creating a comforting and indulgent meal.
• Versatile and Adaptable: You can personalize the recipe by using alternative pasta shapes like penne or fusilli, swapping chicken for more flavorful options like chicken thighs or turkey breast, or lightening it up with half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, and single portions can be frozen. Reheat gently to maintain the silky texture of the creamy sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
• Deliciously Creamy: The combination of heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses creates a rich and velvety sauce that coats the chicken and pasta beautifully.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, basil, and Italian seasoning infuse the dish with layers of savory and tangy flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by swapping ingredients like using chicken thighs for more flavor, different pasta shapes, or adjusting the creaminess level to suit your preferences.
• Memorable Aroma: The scent of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes wafting through your kitchen as you cook will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner time.
• Leftover Friendly: The creamy sauce keeps the pasta from drying out, and leftovers can be easily stored and reheated for delicious meals throughout the week.
• Tuscan Flair: Inspired by Tuscan cuisine, this dish brings together classic Italian flavors of cheese, olive oil, and sun-dried tomatoes, transporting you to a cozy family-style meal in Tuscany.

Ingredients for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Chicken Bites

• 30 ml olive oil
• 2.5 ml paprika
• 450 g boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 25 g Parmesan cheese, finely grated
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 60 g mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Salt, to taste
• 5 ml Italian seasoning
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced

Pasta and Sauce

• 30 ml sun-dried tomato oil
• 280 g rotini pasta
• 75 g sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 50 g Parmesan cheese, grated
• 10 g fresh basil, finely chopped
• 60 g baby spinach
• 120 ml heavy cream or half-and-half

Pro Tips for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

To enhance the flavor of the Cheesy Tuscan Chicken Sun-Dried Rotini, be sure not to overcook the chicken. Cooking the chicken on medium heat until just golden will keep it juicy and flavorful.

While rotini pasta is recommended for its ability to hold sauce, feel free to use penne or fusilli as delicious alternatives that also pair well with creamy bases.

For a lighter version of this dish, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half. This swap will maintain the creamy consistency of the sauce while reducing the richness of the dish.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Step 1: Prepare Pasta

Cook rotini in boiling salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown Chicken Bites

Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.

Step 3: Melt Cheese Over Chicken

Lower the heat to low. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Cover and let the cheese melt completely. Remove from heat and keep warm.

Step 4: Prepare Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce

Heat sun-dried tomato oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped sun-dried tomatoes and baby spinach until spinach wilts. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan, simmer until sauce thickens slightly, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Combine drained rotini with sauce in skillet, tossing to coat pasta evenly.

Step 6: Assemble and Garnish

Serve the creamy sun-dried tomato rotini topped with cheesy Tuscan chicken bites on plates. Garnish each plate with a sprinkle of fresh basil before serving.

Storage Tips

After enjoying your Cheesy Tuscan Chicken Sun-Dried Rotini, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The creamy sauce in the dish helps keep the pasta from drying out. When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the dish in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back its silky texture. You can also freeze single portions, thawing them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

If you don’t have rotini pasta on hand, penne or fusilli are great alternatives that work well with creamy sauces. For a lighter version of the dish, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream while still maintaining the creamy consistency of the sauce with less richness. Additionally, consider personalizing the dish with extra garlic, fresh Italian herbs, or a splash of white wine to enhance the flavors. By cooking components ahead and storing them separately, you can easily reheat and enjoy this flavorful Tuscan-inspired meal at your convenience.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch up the protein in this dish, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor. Turkey breast is another option if you prefer a leaner meat choice. Both will work well with the creamy parmesan sauce and sun-dried tomatoes.

To lighten up the dish, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. This substitution will reduce the richness slightly while maintaining the creamy texture of the sauce. Additionally, you can omit the parmesan in the sauce and opt for more mozzarella if you prefer a milder cheesy flavor.

If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes on hand, you can use cherry tomatoes sautéed in olive oil as a substitute. While you may lose some of the depth and sweetness that sun-dried tomatoes provide, the dish will still have a deliciously savory flavor. Feel free to personalize the recipe with extra garlic, fresh herbs, or a splash of white wine to enhance the taste profile to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try plating the Cheesy Tuscan Chicken Sun-Dried Rotini in individual mini cast-iron skillets for a rustic and charming presentation. Top each portion with a sprinkle of extra mozzarella and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal. Serve alongside a glass of Chianti or a refreshing lemon-infused sparkling water to complement the Italian flavors.

Another fun idea is to transform the Cheesy Tuscan Chicken Sun-Dried Rotini into a baked pasta dish by layering the creamy chicken and pasta mixture in a casserole dish with a generous topping of buttery breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden brown for a comforting and satisfying meal. Serve with a side of garlic knots or cheesy garlic breadsticks for a complete and indulgent dining experience.

FAQs for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of rotini?

Yes, penne or fusilli are great alternatives that work well for holding sauce and pair nicely with creamy bases.

Can I substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version?

Absolutely! Half-and-half can replace heavy cream in this recipe, offering a lighter version while retaining the sauce’s creamy consistency with less richness.

Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

You can use cherry tomatoes sautéed in olive oil, but note that you may lose some depth and sweetness that the sun-dried tomatoes bring to the dish.

Can I prepare the components of this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook everything ahead and store in separate containers. When reheating, do it gently to preserve the texture and flavors of the dish.

Conclusion

As you savor every bite of this delicious Cheesy Tuscan Chicken Sun-Dried Rotini, let the flavors transport you to the sun-kissed hills of Tuscany. The creamy parmesan chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together in a symphony of tastes that will surely become a family favorite. Remember to customize this recipe to your liking by adding your favorite veggies or experimenting with different types of pasta.

Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this Cheesy Tuscan Chicken Sun-Dried Rotini is a versatile dish that never fails to impress. The aroma of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting at the table. So go ahead, enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal, and share the love of Tuscan-inspired cuisine with your loved ones.