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Easy Creamy Tuscan Chicken Sausage Pasta Skillet

Close-up of creamy chicken sausage pasta featuring penne, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes in a white bowl.
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Make this incredibly easy and flavorful creamy Tuscan chicken sausage pasta in one skillet. It is the perfect weeknight dinner that feels gourmet but comes together fast, making it a budget-friendly family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound Italian chicken sausage, casings removed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the chicken sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon until it is fully browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of drippings in the pan.
  2. Add the olive oil to the skillet if needed. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Add the dry pasta to the skillet. Stir well to coat. Cover the skillet and cook according to the pasta package directions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is almost tender (about 10-12 minutes). Add a splash more broth or water if the liquid reduces too quickly.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
  7. Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts completely. Remove the skillet from the heat.
  8. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
  9. Serve this quick chicken sausage dinner immediately.

Notes

  • For a healthier option, use whole wheat or legume-based pasta.
  • If you prefer a smoky flavor, use smoked chicken sausage instead of Italian style.
  • This recipe works well for meal prep; store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://epicureempire.com/chicken-sausage-pasta-skillet-recipe/