This creamy Tuscan chicken pasta is made with a creamy ricotta and parmesan sauce. We love that this cheesy pasta is ready in under 1-hour.
![a bowl of pasta with meat and spinach.](https://cheeseknees.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Tuscan-Chicken-Pasta-04-683x1024.jpg)
What is in Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta?
You need a small list of ingredients and a couple of tools for this pasta. Grab a pot and a skillet to prepare the pasta and sauce. The pasta sauce has a delicious base of onions and sun-dried tomatoes that are simmered in a ricotta, parmesan, and heavy cream sauce. It’s so delicious.
![A green oval casserole with handles, perfect for Tuscan chicken mac and cheese.](https://cheeseknees.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Dutchoven-1-550x550.jpg)
Great Jones
The Dutchess
This is hands-down our favorite Dutch oven. It’s a 6.75 quart enameled cast iron Dutch oven that’s super high-quality and gorgeous.
![a white table topped with bowls of food.](https://cheeseknees.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Tuscan-Chicken-Pasta-13-683x1024.jpg)
Substitutes & Variations
- Protein: Swap out chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Cheese: While ricotta is preferred, cottage cheese or mascarpone can be a creamy alternative.
- Greens: If spinach isn’t your favorite, try kale or arugula for a peppery kick.
- Pasta: Feel free to use gluten-free pasta or whole wheat for a healthier option.
![ricotta cheese in serving dish](https://cheeseknees.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/homemade-ricotta-7-1365x2048sq-550x550.jpg)
Tutorial
How to Make Ricotta Cheese
Homemade ricotta cheese is a brilliant way for anyone to begin their journey into home cheesemaking. The magic of turning fresh milk and cream into delicate curds and whey is deeply satisfying and deliciously simple!
![a pan with spinach and chicken in it.](https://cheeseknees.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Tuscan-Chicken-Pasta-09-683x1024.jpg)
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s thawed and well-drained before adding to the dish.
Can I use whipped cottage cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use whipped cottage cheese. Whip the cottage cheese with a little bit of starchy pasta water until light and frothy.
What other vegetables can I add to this recipe?
You can saute bell peppers and onions with the onion and sun-dried tomatoes for added vegetables.
Storage
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to a month. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy consistency.
![chicken and spinach pasta in a skillet.](https://cheeseknees.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Tuscan-Chicken-Pasta-08-683x1024.jpg)
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta with a fresh side salad drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette or this arugula salad. Also, a warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread complements the rich flavors of the dish.
![a bowl of pasta with chicken and spinach.](https://cheeseknees.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Tuscan-Chicken-Pasta-sq-550x550.jpg)
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz. penne pasta
- 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1.5 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 7 oz. sundried tomatoes in olive oil sliced, and reserve oil
- ½ small yellow onion sliced thinly
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 5 oz. fresh spinach
- 8 oz. heavy cream ~2 cups
- 8 oz. whole milk ricotta cheese ~1 cup
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces and season with Italian seasoning.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of the sun-dried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes or until the chicken has cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Return the skillet to medium heat and add another 2 tablespoons of sun-dried tomato oil. When the oil is hot and fragrant add the onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Next, add the sundried tomatoes and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Transfer the chicken to the pan and add the salt, pepper, and spinach to the skillet. Toss everything together while the spinach wilts in the pan.
- When the spinach has wilted chiefly down, add the heavy cream and ricotta to the pan. Cook until the ricotta has melted into the sauce.
- Transfer the pasta to the skillet and toss until coated.
- Serve with fresh basil and grated parmesan cheese.
Tips & Notes
- If you want to sub-cooked chicken from the chicken breast skip steps 2 and 3. Instead, add the chicken with the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic in Step 5.
- Any short pasta will work in this recipe.