Healthy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
* 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
* 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth low sodium
* 3 cups short pasta like penne , fusilli or bow ties
* 1 large red bell pepper diced
* 1 tablespoon oil for frying
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes chopped
* 2 cups spinach
* 2 cups whole milk
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch
* 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
* 1 large garlic clove grated
* 1/2 teaspoon salt divided
* 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions:
* Preheat large Dutch oven or heavy bottom pot on medium heat and swirl oil to coat. Add chicken and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side.
* Add broth, pasta, bell pepper, Italian seasoning and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper. Gently stir, cover and bring to a boil.
* Reduce heat to medium and cook for 10 minutes, stirring once after 2 minutes to prevent pasta from sticking. Keep in mind gluten free pasta cooks faster than wheat pasta. Pasta should be al dente - not too soft, so it doesn’t become a mush.
* Remove chicken onto a plate or cutting board.
* In a large measuring cup whisk cold milk with cornstarch and pour over pasta. Stir gently, bring to a boil and simmer for a minute until sauce thickens a bit.
* Turn off heat and add sun dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, spinach and garlic. Cover for a few minutes to let flavors develop. Meanwhile, slice chicken into thin pieces.
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Tuscan cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of fresh, high-quality ingredients. In this Healthy Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe, we utilize boneless skinless chicken for a lean protein source and complement it with colorful vegetables like red bell pepper and spinach. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning infuses the dish with rich flavors typical of Tuscan dishes, while the creamy sauce made from whole milk and Parmesan cheese adds a delightful touch of indulgence. To ensure a light alternative, we recommend using low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth combined with short pasta varieties like penne or fusilli, which will soak up the flavors beautifully. For those looking to cater to dietary preferences, gluten-free pasta can be used without compromising the dish's integrity. The cooking method encourages the perfect pasta texture, leaving it al dente to avoid mushiness. Serve this dish as a hearty meal any day of the week or elevate it for special occasions with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad. With its health-conscious ingredients and vibrant colors, this Healthy Tuscan Chicken Pasta not only tastes amazing but is also a feast for the eyes, making it a perfect addition to your recipe collection.
