If you crave a meal bursting with bold flavors and creamy comfort, this Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need on your fork. It’s everything you love about Italian-inspired dishes, mingled into one luscious plate—tender chicken cubes, al dente penne, a rich creamy tomato sauce with just the right kick of red pepper flakes, and the heartwarming aroma of garlic and basil. This dish feels like a warm hug after a long day, yet it’s surprisingly simple to whip up. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for friends, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, combining simplicity with vibrant Italian flavors. From the juicy chicken that adds satisfying protein to the creamy sauce that wraps everything in silky goodness, each component enhances the dish’s delicious texture and inviting color.
- 12 ounces of penne pasta: Holds the creamy sauce perfectly in every bite thanks to its ridges.
- 1 pound of chicken breast, cubed: Adds tender, lean protein that soaks up all those spicy and savory flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a rich base for sautéing chicken and garlic while adding subtle fruity notes.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant punch that deepens the overall flavor profile.
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained: Brings natural sweetness and a bright, vibrant color to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, creamy texture that balances the heat perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds just the right amount of heat—adjust to make it as spicy as you love.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that provides a classic Mediterranean touch.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for bringing every flavor element together harmoniously.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce adding savory depth and that irresistible cheesy finish.
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish: Adds a pop of color and a refreshing herbal aroma to complete the dish.
How to Make Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by filling a large pot with salted water and bringing it to a rolling boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s delightfully al dente—firm to the bite but perfectly tender. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside so the magic can happen in the pan.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Heat up olive oil in a roomy skillet over medium heat. Toss in the cubed chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and black pepper. Cook the chicken until each cube turns a gorgeous golden brown and is cooked through. Once ready, scoop it out and keep it warm while you build the sauce.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for just 1 to 2 minutes. The goal here is to release that aromatic fragrance without letting the garlic burn, which can turn it bitter. This step sets the foundation for all the layers of flavor to come.
Step 4: Add Diced Tomatoes
Pour the can of diced tomatoes, undrained, straight into the skillet. Give it a good stir to mix the tomatoes with the garlic and oil. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly for a richer sauce.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream along with the red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning. These will give the sauce its signature spicy kick and herbal undertones. Let the sauce thicken a bit while you keep stirring gently—this is where everything starts melting together beautifully.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Add the drained penne pasta and toss everything carefully, making sure each piece of pasta is thoroughly coated with the luscious creamy sauce dotted with chunks of tender chicken.
Step 7: Add Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the skillet and stir gently. The cheese melts into the sauce, enriching it with its salty and nutty character, creating that unbeatable creamy texture that clings to every noodle.
Step 8: Final Taste and Serve
Give your dish a final taste test and adjust with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if needed. Once perfectly seasoned, remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool for a minute before dishing out. Your Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe is now ready to delight your taste buds!
How to Serve Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are a classic and non-negotiable garnish, adding a burst of green and a fresh, herbaceous aroma. Feel free to also sprinkle extra grated Parmesan on top for that cheesy finish. If you want a crunch, toasted pine nuts make an unexpected but delightful addition.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette is perfect for mopping up every last bit of that flavorful sauce. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or zucchini, are also excellent accompaniments without overwhelming the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls and garnish with a basil sprig and a dusting of Parmesan. You can also plate it on a flat dish and drizzle extra virgin olive oil or a balsamic reduction around the edges for an elegant splash of color and flavor. Adding a few sun-dried tomatoes on top lends a chewy, tangy contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Everything holds up well, although the pasta may absorb some sauce, so you might want to add a splash of cream or milk when reheating for extra creaminess.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but best if done with the sauce and chicken separate from the pasta, as the noodles can become mushy after thawing. Freeze the sauce and chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and mix with freshly cooked pasta.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often and adding a splash of cream, milk, or broth to restore creaminess. Microwaving is fine for quick reheats, but stirring halfway through helps maintain even warmth and texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, other shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle work just as well. Choose your favorite pasta shape for a personal twist.
How spicy is the Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe?
The spice level mainly comes from the red pepper flakes, which you can adjust to your liking. Start with one teaspoon for a moderate heat and add more if you enjoy things hotter—this recipe is quite flexible!
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a creamy dairy-free alternative, and swap Parmesan cheese with a plant-based version or nutritional yeast. The flavors remain deliciously rich despite these swaps.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. The Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe reheats nicely and can be portioned out into meal prep containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp, chilled Pinot Grigio or a dry Italian white wine complements the creamy, spicy flavors wonderfully without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
Making the Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe is such a joy because it brings comfort food to a whole new level of excitement and flavor. It’s quick enough for busy nights but special enough to impress family and friends. Once you try this dish, it’s bound to become a go-to recipe in your repertoire, bringing warmth and spice to your table again and again.
Print
Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Spicy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, penne pasta, and a rich tomato-cream sauce infused with garlic, Italian seasoning, and a kick of red pepper flakes. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe combines rustic Italian flavors with a spicy twist.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces penne pasta
For the Chicken and Sauce
- 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cubed chicken breast, season with salt and black pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to let it burn.
- Add Tomatoes: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices, stir well, and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Make Sauce: Lower the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce thicken slightly while stirring continuously.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet and mix until it melts into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency.
- Final Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired.
- Serve Immediately: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve warm for the best flavor.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spiciness level.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Fresh basil adds brightness but can be substituted with dried basil if necessary.
- Ensure chicken is cooked through to avoid any food safety concerns.
