Quick Benefits
Creamy Chicken Tuscan Pasta is the perfect one-skillet wonder for busy weeknights. It brings together juicy chicken, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a creamy Alfredo sauce—all baked together with pasta and cheese. No need for boiling pasta separately! It’s a comforting, protein-rich, and family-friendly meal that’s as beautiful to serve as it is easy to make.
Essential Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons butter – for sautéing and adding richness
- 1 clove garlic, minced – brings warmth and aroma
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts – lean protein
- 1 teaspoon oregano + 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – adds herby depth
- Salt and black pepper – enhances all the flavors
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes – bold, tangy bursts
- 3 cups baby spinach – adds greens and freshness
- 8 oz uncooked penne pasta – base for the dish
- 1 jar Alfredo sauce (15 oz) – creamy, cheesy coating
- 2 cups boiling water – helps cook the pasta in the oven
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese – melted goodness on top
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional) – for garnish and freshness
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the cubed chicken with garlic, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: Melt butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 7-8 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
- Mix Ingredients: Turn off the heat. Add sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, penne pasta, and Alfredo sauce. Pour in boiling water and mix thoroughly.
- Bake: Cover with foil or a lid and bake for 30 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Add Cheese: Uncover and sprinkle mozzarella over the top. Return to the oven for 5-10 more minutes until melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped basil or parsley and serve warm.
Health Benefits
- High in Protein: Thanks to the chicken and cheese, this dish supports muscle growth and repair.
- Greens Boost: Spinach provides iron, calcium, and antioxidants.
- One-Pot Meal: Less oil and fewer steps mean fewer processed additives and more control over ingredients.
- Mood Food: Cheese and pasta are classic comfort foods that can help elevate mood and satisfy cravings.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic family-style dinner.
- Pair with a light Caesar salad or arugula salad for crunch and freshness.
- Add a slice of garlic bread or a buttery roll to soak up the creamy sauce.
- A crisp glass of Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon pairs beautifully.
Creative Variations
- Swap the Chicken for shrimp or sliced sausage.
- Try Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta to meet dietary needs.
- Add Mushrooms or artichoke hearts for extra depth.
- Make It Spicy with red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven with a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess.
- Not recommended for freezing, as cream-based sauces can separate.
Pro Tips
- Sear the chicken well for extra flavor before baking.
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melt and taste.
- Let the pasta rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to thicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use precooked pasta instead of uncooked?
A: It’s best to use uncooked pasta so it absorbs flavor as it bakes. If using cooked, reduce baking time and omit the water.
Q: What can I use instead of Alfredo sauce?
A: A homemade white sauce (butter, flour, milk, and cheese) works great, or use a light cream sauce.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare everything and refrigerate before baking. Add 5-10 extra minutes of baking time if coming straight from the fridge.
Creamy Chicken Tuscan Pasta
Creamy Chicken Tuscan Pasta is a comforting and flavorful one-skillet meal loaded with juicy chicken, tender pasta, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, and baby spinach—all bathed in a rich Alfredo sauce and topped with melty mozzarella cheese. This oven-baked dish is perfect for weeknight dinners and impresses guests with its beautiful blend of Italian-inspired flavors and creamy goodness.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
2 Tablespoons butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
3 cups baby spinach
8 oz penne pasta, uncooked
1 jar Alfredo sauce (15 oz)
2 cups boiling water
1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese
Basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken, minced garlic, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat the chicken evenly.
In a deep skillet that is oven-safe, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken cubes and cook for 7-8 minutes until they are fully cooked.
Turn off the heat and add the sun-dried tomatoes, baby spinach, uncooked penne pasta, and Alfredo sauce to the skillet. Mix well to combine.
Pour the boiling water over the mixture and stir until everything is evenly distributed.
Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes or until the pasta is cooked through.
Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta.
Return the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6 servings
- Calories: ~520 kcal per serving (estimate; can vary based on brand and portion size)
