Name: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Tuscan
Ingredients: 1x 250g/9oz Chicken Breast; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp oregano; 1/4 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp sun dried tomato oil (or olive oil); 200g / 7oz linguine (long-cut pasta); 1 tbsp butter; 3 cloves garlic, finely diced; 1 tbsp tomato puree; 80ml / 1/3 cup chicken stock; 160ml / 2/3 cup double/heavy cream; 90g / 3oz sun dried tomatoes, finely diced; 30g / 1oz freshly grated Parmesan, plus more to serve if desired; 2 tbsp finely diced fresh basil, plus more to serve if desired (~1/2 bunch); 2 large handfuls baby spinach (~60g/2oz)

There’s something irresistibly cozy about a plate of pasta bathed in a luscious, velvety sauce, and this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe nails that comfort factor perfectly. It’s the kind of dish that hits all the right notes: creamy, savory, and bursting with fresh flavors that’ll make your kitchen smell like a little trattoria.

A white bowl filled with creamy pasta showing about three layers: the bottom layer of small light brown chicken pieces mixed with creamy sauce that is light orange with a smooth texture, the middle layer of long, thick beige noodles twisted together, and the top layer featuring fresh green basil strips scattered around and bright red cherry tomato halves. The sauce lightly coats all the noodles and chicken, giving a rich and smooth look, with some small bits of red chili and herbs mixed in, set against a white marbled background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I remember the first time I made this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe – I was blown away by how simple ingredients came together to create something rich and indulgent without feeling heavy. It’s quick but feels special enough for weeknights or a casual date night.

Perfectly balanced flavors: The smokiness from paprika blends beautifully with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, giving a taste that’s both vibrant and comforting.
Creamy, yet light: The sauce clings to every strand of pasta without being too rich or cloying, thanks to the fresh spinach and just the right amount of cream.
Quick family favorite: Ready in about 35 minutes, it’s perfect when you want a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Flexible and forgiving: Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a confident cook, this recipe invites you to tweak and make it your own.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe plays a key role in creating that rich, layered flavor and silky texture. Using good-quality sun-dried tomato oil and fresh basil elevates the dish dramatically, so don’t skimp on those!

Flat lay of a fresh raw chicken breast seasoned with smoked paprika, oregano, onion powder, salt, and black pepper; long strands of uncooked linguine pasta; three whole uncracked garlic cloves; a small white ceramic bowl with bright red tomato puree; a small white ceramic bowl with golden sun dried tomato oil; a small white ceramic bowl filled with light brown chicken stock; a small white ceramic bowl with thick double/heavy cream; a small white ceramic bowl containing finely diced sun dried tomatoes; a small heap of freshly grated Parmesan cheese; a small white ceramic bowl holding finely chopped fresh basil leaves; a handful of vibrant baby spinach leaves; a small pat of creamy butter, all arranged symmetrically on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Chicken Breast: Slicing it thin ensures quick, even cooking and keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
Smoked Paprika & Oregano: These spices add depth and an earthy warmth that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Sun-Dried Tomato Oil: Beyond just cooking oil, it infuses the chicken with intense tomato flavor that feels luxurious.
Long-Cut Pasta (Linguine): The slender noodles are great for soaking up the sauce, so every bite is rich and flavorful.
Butter: Adds that silky mouthfeel and a subtle richness to the sauce base.
Garlic: The aromatic backbone that awakens all the flavors.
Tomato Puree: Brings a tangy sweetness that balances the cream.
Chicken Stock: Enhances umami and adds savory complexity without overpowering.
Double/Heavy Cream: Creates the signature creamy texture that defines the dish.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (finely diced): Bursts of chewy, tangy bits that contrast beautifully with the soft pasta.
Parmesan: Adds salty, nutty richness and helps thicken the sauce.
Fresh Basil: Provides bright, herbal freshness to cut through the richness.
Baby Spinach: Adds color, nutrients, and just enough earthiness without overpowering.

📝

Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love experimenting with this creamy Tuscan chicken pasta — it’s one of those dishes that welcomes your tweaks. Sometimes I swap in sun-dried tomato pesto instead of the puree for a richer twist, or add a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle heat that wakes up the flavors.

Variation: One weekend, I replaced the creamy component with coconut cream and tossed in mushrooms and kale to make it dairy-free and veggie-packed — equally delicious!

Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with creamy pasta layered with light orange sauce that coats thick spaghetti noodles. Mixed in are several pieces of light brown chicken strips, green spinach leaves, and scattered small fresh basil leaves on top. The bowl sits on a wooden board placed on a white marbled surface. A silver fork is on the bottom right, and in the background, there is a black pan with more pasta slightly blurred. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Slice and Season Your Chicken

Start by slicing your chicken breast horizontally to get two evenly thin pieces — this helps them cook quickly and evenly without drying. I sprinkle smoked paprika, oregano, onion powder, salt, and black pepper on both sides for a solid flavor foundation that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Step 2: Pan-Fry the Chicken in Sun-Dried Tomato Oil

Heat up a large pan over medium-high heat with sun-dried tomato oil from the jar (or olive oil if you prefer). When it’s hot, add the chicken pieces and sear them until they're lightly charred and cooked through — about 3 minutes per side. This charring adds a smoky touch that’s awesome with the creamy sauce later. Set the chicken aside and don’t slice it until you’re ready to toss it back in to keep all those juices locked in.

Step 3: Boil Your Pasta

While the chicken rests, pop your long-cut pasta into well-salted boiling water. Cook it until just al dente — you want a little bite because the pasta will continue to soften when mixed with the sauce. And don't drain the pasta just yet; that starchy water is your secret weapon to adjust sauce consistency later.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Tuscan Sauce

Turn your heat down to medium. Add butter to your now-empty chicken pan and melt it gently. Toss in the finely diced garlic and sauté for just 10-20 seconds until fragrant – be careful not to brown it. Stir in the tomato puree and cook for about a minute, letting its sweetness deepen. Then pour in chicken stock and heavy cream, stirring everything together before adding diced sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and grated Parmesan.

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat. It should be thick but not pasty. This sauce is the heart of the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe — rich, tangy, and silky all at once.

Step 5: Wilt the Spinach and Combine Everything

Toss the baby spinach into the sauce, stirring just until the leaves begin to wilt — keep in mind they’ll keep softening after you turn off the heat. Using tongs, transfer the pasta directly from the boiling pot into the pan (a little pasta water comes with it and helps loosen the sauce). Mix thoroughly to coat every strand in that luscious sauce.

Slice your rested chicken thinly and add it back along with all the juices. Toss again until the sauce thickens and clings beautifully to the pasta. If it seems too thick at any point, a splash of the reserved pasta water works wonders to bring it back to saucy perfection. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, then serve with a sprinkle of fresh basil and extra Parmesan if you like.

Top Tip

I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count, and a few key things always help me nail it every time without fuss or stress.

Season Early: Don’t hesitate to be generous and season the chicken well before cooking – it’s where much of the flavor starts.
Keep Pasta Water Handy: That starchy pasta water is magic for adjusting your sauce’s texture — don’t pour it out.
Slice Chicken at the Right Time: Let the chicken rest until just before mixing. This keeps it juicy and helps maintain those lovely pan juices that flavor the sauce.
Don’t Overcook Garlic: It can turn bitter quickly, so keep the sauté time short and watch it carefully.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Creamy Tuscan Chicken - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I usually finish my plate with torn fresh basil leaves and a generous grating of Parmesan. Sometimes, a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds a glossy, fresh finish. Those simple touches bring brightness and a hint of herbal zest that perfectly balances the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish stands tall on its own but pairs beautifully with crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette. Roasting some cherry tomatoes alongside adds a sweet, caramelized contrast that’s just fantastic.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to serve it in shallow bowls, garnished with edible flowers or microgreens for an elegant touch. You can also switch up the pasta for fettucine nests and twirl portions with fresh basil sprigs nestled on top — a simple way to impress your guests without fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This pasta keeps well when refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. I always add a splash of cream or milk when reheating to bring back the silky texture, as the sauce tends to thicken and firm up in the fridge.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe a few times and it freezes okay, but the texture of the spinach changes slightly. If you plan to freeze, it's best to undercook the pasta a bit and add fresh herbs after thawing to keep it vibrant.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of cream or stock if needed. This keeps the sauce luxurious and smooth, rather than clumpy or dried out.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While linguine is my favorite for this dish because it holds the sauce nicely, fettuccine, penne, or even rigatoni work well too. Just make sure to cook them al dente for the best texture.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe dairy-free, try swapping the heavy cream for coconut cream and use a dairy-free butter substitute. You can skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative. Adding extra herbs can help boost flavor without the dairy.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can season and slice the chicken the night before to save time. Also, chop your garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil ahead, storing them separately. Just cook everything fresh for the best flavor and texture when serving.

What’s the best way to avoid watery sauce?

The key is to let the sauce thicken before adding pasta and spinach, and to toss pasta directly into the sauce instead of draining it separately. Using a bit of pasta water helps control consistency, but don't add too much at once to avoid thinning it out excessively.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe has become my go-to comfort meal when I want something that feels a little indulgent but still comes together quickly. It strikes that beautiful balance between simplicity and flair, and I’m confident you’ll find it just as satisfying. So next time you want to wow your taste buds or impress family with minimal fuss, give it a try — you’re going to love every creamy, herbaceous bite.