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Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta for Cozy Weeknight Dinners

Indulge in this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, a comforting dish that combines chicken, bacon, and spinach.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz spaghetti Can substitute with linguine.
For the Chicken
  • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts About 1 1/4 pounds.
  • Kosher salt Adjust to taste.
  • Freshly ground black pepper To taste; white pepper is a milder alternative.
For the Sauce
  • 1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil Can swap with high-heat oil.
  • 6 slices bacon Turkey bacon is a lighter alternative.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced, increase for bolder flavor.
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes Halved; chopped regular tomatoes can be used.
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream Use half-and-half for a lighter twist.
  • 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan Pecorino Romano can substitute.
For the Greens
  • 3 cups packed baby spinach Kale can be a hearty alternative.
  • Freshly torn basil For garnish; optional.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Baking sheet
  • Meat Thermometer
  • slotted spoon
  • paper towels

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  3. Transfer chicken to a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Rest for 10 minutes.
  4. Cook bacon in the same skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8 minutes. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and chop into bite-sized pieces.
  5. Add minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Sauté for about 2 minutes, then add cream and Parmesan. Simmer for 3 minutes.
  6. Stir in spinach until wilted, about 1 minute.
  7. Combine drained spaghetti with the creamy sauce, sliced chicken, and bacon. Add reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
  8. Garnish with torn basil and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 36gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Consider doubling the sauce for a creamier dish, and reserve pasta water for adjusting sauce consistency.

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