There’s something about a rich, creamy Tuscan chicken that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This dish is the perfect balance of indulgent and comforting, making it a go-to for cozy family dinners or an impressive meal for guests. The creamy garlic-infused sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and tender chicken come together beautifully, creating a dish that’s both elegant and easy to make.

Inspired by the flavors of Tuscany, this recipe brings together simple yet bold ingredients that create a restaurant-quality meal right at home. The best part? It all comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce, this creamy Tuscan chicken will quickly become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Meal: Less mess, more flavor!
• Rich & Creamy: The velvety sauce is packed with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan.
• Customizable: Pair it with pasta, rice, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home: Impress your family with a dish that tastes like it came from an Italian bistro.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy. Season both sides with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. The goal here is to get a nice sear while locking in moisture. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Add the parmesan cheese, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Spinach

Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and let them soften in the sauce for a minute or two. Then, add the fresh spinach and let it wilt. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and spinach adds a beautiful color contrast and depth of flavor to the dish.

Step 5: Return the Chicken to the Pan

Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to absorb all that creamy goodness. If the sauce thickens too much, you can add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Finish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Helpful Tips

• Use Thin Chicken Cutlets: This ensures the chicken cooks quickly and evenly. If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half before cooking.
• Don’t Skip the Sear: A golden crust on the chicken adds texture and locks in juices, making it extra flavorful.
• Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce: If it gets too thick, add a bit more chicken broth. If too thin, let it simmer a little longer.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Variations: Use the oil-packed ones for extra richness or dry-packed for a more concentrated flavor.
• Serving Ideas: Pair with pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Notes

• If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
• Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or extra greens like kale for additional flavor and texture.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

(Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well and add extra juiciness to the dish. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a couple of minutes longer to cook through.

How Can I Make This Dairy-Free?

For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of parmesan cheese. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. When ready to serve, warm it up and add freshly cooked chicken to maintain the best texture.

What Should I Serve With Creamy Tuscan Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or even a simple side of roasted vegetables. A fresh green salad and some garlic bread also make excellent additions.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: You can freeze the sauce separately for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed.

Related Recipes

If you love this Creamy Tuscan Chicken, you’ll definitely enjoy these other comforting dishes:

• Creamy Tuscan Chicken Soup
• Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Sausage
• Lobster Ravioli Sauce – A Creamy, Luxurious Addition
• Hearty Tuscan Chicken Soup – A Cozy, Flavorful Bowl in 30 Minutes

Conclusion

Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a dish that never fails to impress. With its rich, flavorful sauce, tender chicken, and beautiful balance of sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your home.

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