Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta (Printable Version)
# What You'll Need:
→ Chicken Spice Rub
01 -
4 chicken cutlets or 2 chicken breasts, halved
02 -
2 teaspoons garlic powder
03 -
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
04 -
2 teaspoons dried parsley or oregano
05 -
1.5 teaspoons salt
06 -
0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
→ Pasta and Sauce
07 -
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
08 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
09 -
4 garlic cloves, minced
10 -
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
11 -
2 tablespoons tomato paste
12 -
2 cups heavy cream
13 -
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
14 -
120 millilitres water
15 -
2 teaspoons garlic powder
16 -
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
17 -
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
18 -
450 grams rigatoni pasta
19 -
Salt, to taste
20 -
Black pepper, to taste
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried parsley or oregano, salt, and ground black pepper in a small bowl. Evenly coat both sides of the chicken cutlets with the spice mixture.
02 -
Heat vegetable oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Place the seasoned chicken in the pan and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
03 -
In the same pan, melt unsalted butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute, then add halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes are softened and begin to release juices.
04 -
Stir in the tomato paste thoroughly, then pour in the heavy cream. If the sauce requires thickening, mix all-purpose flour with water to create a smooth slurry. Remove the pan from heat and gradually whisk in the slurry to avoid lumps.
05 -
Return the pan to low heat and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Meanwhile, cook rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and briefly rinse with cold water to halt cooking.
06 -
Stir garlic powder, smoked paprika, and chopped spinach into the sauce. Add the drained pasta, tossing to evenly coat with the creamy sauce. Adjust salt and black pepper to taste.
07 -
Slice the reserved cooked chicken. Plate the creamy pasta and arrange chicken slices on top. Serve immediately.
# Helpful Notes:
01 -
For best results, allow the sauce to simmer gently to develop rich flavor and ensure a smooth, velvety texture.