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- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 8 oz penne pasta - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 2 cups fresh spinach - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes - 2 cups chicken broth - Salt and pepper to taste Gathering these ingredients sets you up for success. The chicken gives protein, while penne pasta makes it fill you up. Heavy cream adds richness, and cherry tomatoes bring a burst of flavor. Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition, and Parmesan cheese ties it all together. For seasoning, olive oil helps cook the chicken, while garlic adds a punch. Italian seasoning gives it that classic taste, and red pepper flakes can add some heat. Chicken broth is key for cooking the pasta, and salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Make sure to get the freshest ingredients. This choice not only boosts taste but also makes your meal more nutritious. Enjoy the cooking process, as it leads to a creamy, delicious dish. First, I turn on the Instant Pot to the sauté function. I add a tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat for about a minute. Then, I toss in one pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. I season the chicken with salt, pepper, one teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and one teaspoon of red pepper flakes. I sauté the chicken until it turns lightly brown, which takes about four to five minutes. After that, I stir in three minced garlic cloves and cook for one more minute until I can smell the garlic. Next, I pour in two cups of chicken broth. I make sure the broth covers the chicken. Then, I add eight ounces of penne pasta, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid. This step is key for even cooking. Once everything is in, I close the lid of the Instant Pot, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for eight minutes. After the cooking time ends, I carefully perform a quick release to let the steam escape. I open the lid and stir the pasta and chicken to mix everything well. Then, I add one cup of heavy cream, one cup of halved cherry tomatoes, and two cups of fresh spinach. I stir these ingredients together until they blend nicely. I turn the Instant Pot back to sauté mode and let the mixture cook for three to four minutes. This lets the spinach wilt and warms everything up. Finally, I stir in half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and makes the dish creamy. I taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed. To make your dish shine, start with the right seasonings. Adjust salt and pepper based on your taste. If you like more heat, add more red pepper flakes. Taste as you go to ensure balance. Next, let’s talk creaminess. Use heavy cream for that rich texture. If you want a lighter option, consider half-and-half. Just remember, the cream should meld well with the other flavors. Stir it in slowly and see how it blends. Serving your pasta nicely makes a big difference. Use deep bowls to hold the creamy sauce. Top each serving with extra grated Parmesan. This adds a lovely touch of flavor and elegance. Fresh basil leaves are a perfect garnish. They add color and a fresh aroma. You can also sprinkle some extra red pepper flakes for a pop of color. If you want to impress, consider serving with crusty garlic bread on the side. It’s a great way to soak up that creamy goodness! {{image_2}} - Alternatives for chicken: You can swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or turkey. Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a nice flavor. Tofu is a great choice for a plant-based meal. Turkey provides a leaner option with a hearty taste. - Gluten-free pasta options: If you need gluten-free pasta, use rice or quinoa pasta. These options work well in this creamy dish. They absorb flavors nicely and keep the meal satisfying. - Adding different veggies: You can mix in bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. These veggies add color and nutrition. They also bring new textures and tastes to the pasta. Adding them during the sauté step helps them cook well. - Using different cheeses: Try using goat cheese or mozzarella instead of Parmesan. Goat cheese adds a tangy flavor, while mozzarella creates a creamy texture. You can also mix different cheeses for a unique twist. To keep your creamy Tuscan chicken pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps maintain its flavor and texture. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. This dish lasts about three to four days in the refrigerator. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. It can stay good in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before reheating. When reheating, I recommend using a stovetop method. This helps keep the creaminess intact. Start by adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to the pasta. Then, heat it over low heat. Stir it often to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it, but be cautious. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. For serving, add a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan and a few basil leaves. This adds a nice touch and enhances the flavor. Enjoy your delicious reheated creamy Tuscan chicken pasta just like it was fresh! To make this dish dairy-free, you can use alternative creams and cheeses. Here are some options: - Coconut cream: This thick cream adds richness. - Cashew cream: Blend soaked cashews with water for a creamy texture. - Nutritional yeast: This gives a cheesy flavor without dairy. - Dairy-free cheese: Many brands offer great dairy-free cheese options. These swaps keep the dish creamy and tasty without dairy. Yes, you can prepare this dish on the stovetop. Here’s how: 1. Sauté the chicken in a large pot with olive oil, salt, and pepper. 2. Add garlic after the chicken is browned. 3. Pour in chicken broth and add penne pasta. 4. Cover and simmer until the pasta is cooked, stirring occasionally. 5. Stir in cream, tomatoes, and spinach, cooking until heated through. This method takes a bit longer but still makes a delicious meal. This pasta pairs well with several side dishes: - Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up sauce. - Caesar salad: A fresh, crisp side that balances the meal. - Roasted vegetables: Adds color and nutrition. - Steamed broccoli: A healthy and simple choice. These sides enhance your dining experience and complement the pasta's flavors. This blog post shared how to make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta. We covered ingredients, seasoning, and cooking steps. I provided tips for perfecting the dish and suggested variations. You can customize it to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Remember to store leftovers properly to enjoy later. This dish is creamy, flavorful, and sure to impress. Whether you cook it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, it will delight everyone. Enjoy creating this tasty dish and make it your own!

Instant Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Indulge in a deliciously creamy Tuscan chicken pasta that's easy to make in just 30 minutes! With tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich sauce, this recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner. Follow our step-by-step guide to create a dish that's sure to impress family and friends. Click through to discover the full recipe and presentation tips you won't want to miss! #TuscanChickenPasta #PastaRecipes #QuickDinner #InstantPotRecipes
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 tablespoon olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

2 cups chicken broth

8 oz (225g) penne pasta

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

2 cups fresh spinach

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Turn the Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and let it heat up for about a minute.

    Add the chicken pieces to the pot, season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Sauté the chicken until lightly browned, about 4-5 minutes.

      Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

        Pour in the chicken broth and add the penne pasta, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid.

          Close the lid of the Instant Pot, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.

            Once the cooking time is completed, carefully perform a quick release to release the pressure.

              Open the lid and stir the pasta and chicken to combine.

                Add the heavy cream, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach to the pot. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients.

                  Turn the Instant Pot back to the sauté mode, and let the mixture cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the spinach is wilted and everything is heated through.

                    Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

                      Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4

                        - Presentation Tips: Serve the creamy Tuscan chicken pasta in bowls, topped with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a touch of elegance.