Tuscan Grilled Chicken Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy Tuscan Grilled Chicken Pasta is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying yet easy to make. The rich, creamy sauce, packed with Parmesan and Italian seasoning, smothers the tender grilled chicken and fresh spinach, creating a hearty and comforting meal. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes adds a tangy twist that elevates the flavor, making this pasta dish irresistible.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 ounces dried Penne pasta (about 2 1/2 cups)

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 6 tenders)

• 4 tablespoons olive oil (divided)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 3 cups fresh spinach

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1/2 cup diced onion

• 6 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 cups half-and-half

• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

• 1 1/2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (see notes)

• Italian Parsley or Basil for garnish

Directions

Cook the Pasta:

1. Cook the penne pasta to al dente according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Grill the Chicken:

1. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.

2. Rub 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the chicken breasts and season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

3. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side for breasts, or 3-5 minutes per side for tenders.

4. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes, then slice into strips.

Cook the Spinach:

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add the spinach and cook for 3-4 minutes until wilted. Remove and set aside.

Make the Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, add butter and diced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.

2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

3. Pour in the half-and-half and bring to a simmer, but don’t let it boil.

4. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese. Whisk until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combine the Ingredients:

1. Add the cooked pasta, grilled chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and wilted spinach to the skillet. Toss everything until well combined.

Serve:

1. Season with more salt and pepper to taste.

2. Garnish with Italian parsley or basil.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Servings: 6

• Calories: 708 per serving

Variations

• Add more vegetables: Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the skillet for extra texture and flavor.

• Make it lighter: Use a light cream or half-and-half alternative for a lower-calorie version.

• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.

• Swap the chicken: If you prefer, you can use grilled shrimp, turkey, or even a plant-based protein for a different protein source.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, adding a little extra half-and-half if needed to rehydrate the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne pasta with any other pasta shape, like fettuccine, spaghetti, or rigatoni.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the components ahead of time (grill the chicken, cook the pasta, and make the sauce), then assemble and heat everything together just before serving.

3. Can I use fresh sun-dried tomatoes instead of jarred?

You can use fresh tomatoes, but sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil have a more intense flavor that complements this recipe well.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

If you prefer a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

5. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the pasta and sauce (without the spinach) for up to 2 months. Reheat gently when ready to serve.

6. Can I add more cheese to this dish?

Absolutely! If you love cheese, feel free to add more Parmesan or even some mozzarella to make it even cheesier.

7. Can I substitute the half-and-half with something else?

Yes, you can substitute half-and-half with heavy cream for a richer sauce or use a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version.

8. Can I use store-bought grilled chicken?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked or store-bought grilled chicken to save time on busy nights.

9. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, replace the chicken with plant-based protein (like tofu or tempeh) or add more vegetables to make the dish vegetarian.

10. What should I serve with this pasta?

Serve this creamy pasta with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.

Conclusion

This Tuscan Grilled Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. The rich sauce, combined with the grilled chicken, pasta, and fresh spinach, makes for a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s the perfect option for a weeknight dinner that’s both delicious and easy to make. With its comforting flavors and versatility, it’s sure to become a new favorite!

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