When it comes to quick and delicious weeknight meals, the Tuscan Chicken Pasta Skillet stands out as a must-try recipe. This one-pan dish brings together the rich flavors of tender chicken, marinated artichokes, fresh spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, all enveloped in a creamy garlic-parmesan sauce. The best part? It’s made in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze and allowing you to enjoy your meal without a mountain of dishes afterward.

The heart of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a few key ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that feels indulgent yet is easy to prepare. Start with boneless, skinless chicken breast sautéed to golden perfection, ensuring that every bite is juicy and flavorful. Seasoned with a touch of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, the chicken lays a solid foundation for the vibrant flavors to come.

Once your chicken is cooked, set it aside and use the same pan to sauté aromatic ingredients. The magic begins when you add minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, which release a delightful fragrance that fills your kitchen. The addition of artichoke hearts and chopped sun-dried tomatoes adds depth to the dish, combining tanginess and sweetness that perfectly complements the savory chicken.

Next, it’s time to introduce the pasta into the mix. Uncooked gemelli or rotini pasta is added to the skillet along with chicken broth and heavy cream. This creates a creamy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. The gentle simmer allows the pasta to absorb the flavors while cooking to al dente perfection. Stirring occasionally ensures that every piece of pasta gets the love it deserves and prevents sticking.

As the pasta cooks, the dish transforms into a creamy, comforting meal that’s sure to please. Once the pasta is ready, the final touches come into play. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and a splash of lemon juice for brightness. The addition of fresh spinach is the pièce de résistance – it wilts down quickly, adding a pop of color and nutrients to this already wholesome dish.

Serving is where the presentation shines. Garnish your Tuscan Chicken Pasta Skillet with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh burst of flavor. Serve it warm, and you’ll have a comforting meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, perfect for sharing with family or friends - or a Valentine!

What makes this dish even more appealing is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out the chicken for shrimp or tofu. It's a fantastic way to use up any leftover veggies in your fridge, making it a great option for meal prep. Plus, the leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days, providing delicious lunches or dinners throughout the week.

This Tuscan Chicken Pasta Skillet is not just a meal; it's an experience. With its combination of flavors and textures, it brings the essence of Tuscan cuisine right to your kitchen. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something a little more special, this one-pan wonder is sure to impress and satisfy. So gather your ingredients, grab your skillet, and get ready to indulge in a delightful culinary adventure!

Tuscan Chicken Pasta Skillet

Serves: 4-6

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 30 minutes

Total time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
3 cloves garlic (minced)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts (drained and quartered)
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
3 cups fresh baby spinach
2 cups uncooked gemelli or rotini pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream (or half & half for a lighter version)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
¼ cup fresh basil or parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Directions:

Cook the Chicken
    •    Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
    •    Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
    •    Remove chicken and set aside. When cooled, slice into bite-sized pieces.
Sauté the Aromatics & Vegetables
• In the same pan, add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in the artichokes and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for another 2 minutes.
Cook the Pasta
    •    Add uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the skillet.
    •    Stir to combine, then bring to a gentle simmer.
    •    Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
Finish the Dish
• Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and cooked chicken.
• Add fresh spinach, stirring until wilted.
Garnish & Serve
• Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
• Serve warm and enjoy your one-pan Tuscan delight!

Enjoy!