Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

This delectable Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe is a harmonious blend of succulent chicken, aromatic herbs, and vibrant vegetables that captures the essence of Italy. Ready in one pan in around 30 minutes and perfect for busy weeknights or special weekends.

Updated August 2023

Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe: A Mediterranean Delight

Craving a taste of Tuscany? This Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe is here to whisk your taste buds away to the sun-soaked landscapes of the Mediterranean. It’s a delightful Italian-inspired dish that combines succulent chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs to create a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to a charming Italian trattoria. Not only is this recipe a treat for your palate, but it’s also a breeze to prepare and easily customizable with gluten-free, dairy-free and meat-free options.

With its harmonious blend of textures and flavors, this dish embodies the essence of Tuscan cuisine. From the initial sauté to the final garnish, each step contributes to the creation of a memorable dining experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: These tender cuts serve as the protein foundation for the dish, adding savory richness and texture.
• Dried Oregano: This aromatic herb infuses the dish with a distinct Mediterranean flavor, elevating the taste profile.
• Garlic: The minced garlic introduces a delightful pungent note, characteristic of Tuscan cuisine.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Sliced thinly and soaked in oil, these tomatoes provide a burst of intense sweetness and tanginess.
• Mushrooms: Sliced cremini or button mushrooms bring an earthy and meaty element to the dish.
• Red Bell Pepper: The thinly sliced red pepper adds a pop of color and a slightly sweet undertone.
• Cherry Tomatoes: These juicy tomatoes, whether halved fresh or from a can, contribute a refreshing burst of acidity.
• Chicken Broth: The broth serves as the base, infusing the pasta with depth of flavor and keeping it moist.
• Coconut Milk or Heavy Cream: Adding richness and creaminess, this ingredient brings the sauce together for a velvety finish.
• Gluten-Free Linguine or Thin Pasta: The choice of pasta, be it gluten-free or grain-free, is the canvas for the dish’s flavors to shine. We like Jovial Cassava flour pasta, Cappello’s almond flour pasta, hearts of palm noodles or Kaizen low carb pasta. Can also use regular wheat pasta of choice if not dairy-free.
• Kale: Finely chopped kale adds a nutritious twist, infusing a vibrant color and fresh taste.
• Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs rounds out the Tuscan aroma, evoking the essence of Italy.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a touch of heat, these flakes offer a subtle kick.
• Basil Leaves: Thinly sliced and garnished, basil adds a fragrant and aromatic flair.
• Dairy-Free Parmesan: Whether dairy-free or regular, grated Parmesan crowns the dish with a savory finish.

Instructions: Bringing Tuscany to Your Table

• Sauté Seasoned Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Sauté until browned and fully cooked. Set aside.
• Create Aromatic Base: In the same pan, add a touch of olive oil and sauté garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, and red bell peppers until fragrant.
• Add Tomatoes and Pasta: Introduce cherry tomatoes and the chosen pasta, along with chicken broth. Bring to a boil and simmer until the pasta is tender.
• Enhance with Flavors: Stir in kale, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste.
• Creamy Finale: Pour in coconut milk or heavy cream to create a creamy, velvety sauce. Reintroduce the cooked chicken to the pan and let it simmer.
• Garnish and Serve: Top the dish with grated Parmesan and basil leaves. Plate and serve while hot, transporting your taste buds to Tuscany.

Tips for Success: Mastering the Tuscan Flavors

• Perfectly Sautéed Chicken: Season and sauté the chicken until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. This step lays the foundation for rich flavors.
• Layered Aromatics: Sautéing garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, and red peppers creates a fragrant base layer that infuses the entire dish.
• Ideal Pasta Texture: When boiling the pasta in the broth, ensure it’s tender yet slightly firm to the bite. This balances the dish’s texture.
• Creamy Balance: Incorporate coconut milk or cream to create a luscious sauce that complements the other ingredients harmoniously.
• Garnish Grace: The final flourish of basil leaves and grated Parmesan adds freshness and complexity. Don’t skip this step!

Variations and Substitutions: Making It Your Own

• Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different twist.
• Veggie Medley: Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables like artichoke hearts, spinach, or zucchini.
• Pasta Choices: Choose any pasta that suits your dietary preferences, from whole wheat to zucchini noodles.
• Dairy Preference: Opt for dairy-free or regular cheese according to your dietary needs.

Storage and Freezer Instructions: Saving Deliciousness for Later

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions: Sharing the Tuscan Love

• Wine Pairing: Serve with a light red wine like Chianti or a crisp white like Pinot Grigio for an authentic Italian pairing.
• Side Salad: Accompany with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions: FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of protein? Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or tofu to create your preferred protein variation.

2. How can I make this recipe dairy-free? Opt for dairy-free Parmesan and coconut milk to achieve a dairy-free version without compromising on taste.

3. Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free? Certainly! If gluten isn’t a concern, regular pasta works just as well in this recipe.

4. How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

5. Can I freeze this pasta? Yes, you can freeze portions of this pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

6. What wine pairs well with this dish? Opt for a light red wine like Chianti or a crisp white like Pinot Grigio to complement the Tuscan flavors.

7. Can I customize the vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables such as artichoke hearts, spinach, or zucchini.

8. Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions? Yes, the recipe has been designed to accommodate gluten-free and dairy-free preferences. Adjust ingredients as needed.

9. How can I achieve the perfect pasta texture? Boil the pasta in the broth until it’s tender yet slightly firm to ensure a balanced texture.

10. Can I make this dish ahead of time? While the dish is best enjoyed freshly prepared, you can prepare the sautéed components ahead of time and combine them just before serving for a convenient meal.

More Italian-inspired recipes you will love:

Easy Skillet Lasagna

Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken Piccata

5 from 2 votes

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Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Prep Time

10 mins

Cook Time

18 mins

Total Time

28 mins

 

This delectable Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe is a harmonious blend of succulent chicken, aromatic herbs, and vibrant vegetables that captures the essence of Italy. Ready in one pan in around 30 minutes and perfect for busy weeknights or special weekends.

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: kid friendly dinner ideas, one pot chicken pasta recipe, tuscan pasta recipe

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 352 kcal

Author: Kelly

Ingredients

• 2 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts about 1/2 lb, cut into strips or chunks. Can sub with other protein of choice or omit for a meatless version.
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes in oil sliced thinly
• 1 cup sliced cremini or button mushrooms
• 1 red bell pepper sliced thinly
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved (or use 14.5 ounces can diced tomatoes, drained)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 8 ounces gluten-free linguine or thin pasta of choice broken in half, we like Jovial - can also sub with grain-free pasta of choice such as Jovial Cassava flour pasta, Cappello's almond flour pasta, hearts of palm noodles or Kaizen. Can also use regular wheat pasta of choice if not dairy-free.
• 1-1/3 cups finely chopped kale
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to taste
• 1/4 cup basil leaves thinly sliced plus more for garnishing
• 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk or sub heavy cream of choice if not dairy-free
• 1/4 cup grated dairy-free or regular Parmesan, to taste - we like Violife or Miyokos

Instructions

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and dried oregano and add to a large greased skillet/pan over medium heat. Saute until browned and cooked through (about 4-6 minutes).Transfer to a plate.
2. Return the pan back to the heat and add a little bit of olive oil.
3. Add garlic, mushrooms and sundried tomatoes and saute over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes until garlic is fragrant. Add red peppers and cherry/diced tomatoes and saute for another 2 minutes. Add pasta and broth and turn up the heat to bring to a boil. Lower the heat back to medium, cover with the lid and cook for about 8-11 minutes (stirring pasta half way and add in more broth as needed if pasta is sticking or seems dry) until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed.
4. Toss in kale, basil, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour in the coconut milk / cream and nestle the chicken back to the pan, stir to coat and allow to bubble andl heat through.
6. Top with grated Parmesan and garnish with extra basil leaves.
7. Plate and serve while still hot.

Nutrition Facts

Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Amount Per Serving (1 serving)

Calories 352 Calories from Fat 54

% Daily Value*

Fat 6g9%

Carbohydrates 50g17%

Fiber 3g12%

Sugar 3g3%

Protein 23g46%

* Nutrition facts are provided as a courtesy using the WPRM recipe calculator. It is best to make your own calculations to ensure accuracy. We expressly disclaim any and all liability of any kind with respect to any act or omission wholly or in part in reliance on anything contained in this website. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.