Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and season generously with salt. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente, so it remains slightly firm to the bite. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water can be used later to create a silky, well-balanced sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside while preparing the chicken and sauce.

In a large bowl, season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well so every piece is evenly coated. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown on the outside and fully cooked inside. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and keep it warm while preparing the sauce.

Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the broth simmer for about 2 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes, if using. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and rich. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes, just until they begin to soften. Stir in the baby spinach and cook for another minute until wilted.

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir gently to coat it in the creamy Tuscan sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until every piece of pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley for the perfect finishing touch.