Tuscan Garlic Chicken Linguine

Tuscan Garlic Chicken Linguine

Ingredients:

  • Kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
  • 1 pound linguine pasta
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 red bell peppers, cored, seeded, and thinly sliced
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 cup Chardonnay (or chicken stock as a non-alcoholic substitute)
  • 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning Blend
  • 2 cups half-and-half
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 5 ounces fresh spinach
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    • Boil water in a large pot over high heat. Salt generously and cook the linguine to al dente. Drain, reserving 2 cups of pasta water for later use.
  2. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Heat a 10-inch skillet over medium-high. Add olive oil once hot. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook in the skillet until golden brown and fully cooked, about 3-5 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
  3. Sauté Vegetables:
    • In the same skillet, sauté garlic, red bell peppers, and red pepper flakes until the peppers are slightly tender, about 3 minutes. Stir occasionally.
  4. Deglaze and Season:
    • Pour Chardonnay into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it boil for 2 minutes. Stir in Italian Seasoning.
  5. Create the Sauce:
    • Lower the heat and add half-and-half and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. If needed, thin the sauce with the reserved pasta water.
  6. Combine:
    • Mix in spinach and add the cooked pasta to the skillet, using tongs to incorporate well into the sauce.
  7. Serve:
    • Place the cooked chicken on top of the pasta. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes:

  • Cover the pot when boiling water to speed up the process. Watch closely to prevent boil-overs.
  • Substitute Chardonnay with chicken stock if preferred.

Enjoy this rich and flavorful Tuscan Garlic Chicken Linguine, a delightful mix of tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and creamy sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner.