If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s bursting with rich flavors, velvety textures, and a touch of Italian charm, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe. With tender chicken breasts swimming in a luscious sauce made from garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and comfort food. It’s a straightforward recipe that quickly transforms everyday ingredients into a meal that feels truly special. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish never fails to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believe it or not, the magic behind this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe lies in its accessible, everyday ingredients. Each one is essential, lending its own unique flavor, color, or texture, ensuring the dish remains vibrant and full-bodied.
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that soaks up every bit of the creamy sauce.
- 1 teaspoon salt: A key flavor enhancer that brings out the richness in the chicken and sauce.
- ½ teaspoon pepper: Adds a mild kick for that perfect seasoning balance.
- 1 Tablespoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that infuses the chicken with Tuscan flair.
- 3 Tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps beautifully sear the chicken.
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for a sauté base, with a fruity, earthy undertone.
- ½ cup onions (diced): Brings sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (sliced or diced): Concentrated tomato flavor providing a tangy burst and gorgeous color.
- 3 garlic cloves (pressed): Adds an essential aromatic punch without overpowering.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Creates a savory foundation for the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: The heart of the creaminess that balances all the flavors.
- ½ cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated): Adds a nutty, salty richness that melts seamlessly into the sauce.
- 1 ½ cups fresh baby spinach (loosely packed): Brings a pop of vibrant green and nutrients, softening perfectly into the sauce.
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by generously seasoning each chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Don’t be shy here — this is what builds the initial flavor that will carry through the whole dish. Take a moment to really rub those spices into the chicken; it makes a world of difference.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter until it coats the pan with a golden sheen. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear until they are beautifully golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. If your pan is smaller, don’t cram the chicken — sear in batches to get that perfect crust without steaming the meat.
Step 3: Set Aside the Chicken
Once browned, remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a plate. This rest period lets you build the sauce without overcooking the chicken, keeping it juicy and tender.
Step 4: Sauté Onions
Drop the heat down to medium and add the olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the diced onions and sauté until they turn translucent, about 3 to 5 minutes. This step softens the onions and brings out their natural sweetness, adding a wonderful foundation to the sauce.
Step 5: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Garlic
Now stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and pressed garlic. Cook just until you smell the aroma, roughly 30 seconds. This quick sauté awakens those robust flavors and adds a vibrant color burst to the sauce.
Step 6: Build the Cream Sauce
Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream into the pan. Stir it well to combine and let it warm through. Once heated, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts completely and the sauce thickens. Toss in the fresh spinach last, and watch it wilt beautifully into that creamy base.
Step 7: Simmer Chicken in Sauce
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling each breast in the luscious sauce. Simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked all the way through and registers 165° internally. Spoon plenty of the sauce over the chicken when serving — that’s where the magic lives.
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil brightens this dish beautifully, adding a fresh green touch that complements the creamy richness. A little extra grated Parmesan on top never hurts either and gives visual appeal along with flavor.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe pairs fabulously with a simple bed of pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a crisp side salad work equally well to balance the richness while keeping the meal satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the chicken over creamy polenta or risotto for a truly decadent experience. You can also stuff the chicken breasts with mozzarella before cooking for a melty surprise inside. Presentation is all about layering textures and colors — let that sauce drizzle artfully for a restaurant-quality look at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Tuscan Chicken keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the dish cool slightly before refrigerating to maintain freshness and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, although the texture of the cream sauce might change slightly. Portion the chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce’s consistency. Microwave reheating works too but adjust the time to avoid overcooking the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring a bit more juiciness and flavor, and they hold up well in this creamy sauce. Just adjust cooking time slightly because thighs can take a bit longer to cook through.
What’s the best way to store leftover Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freezing is a good option, although it’s best enjoyed fresh when possible.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. Keep in mind the flavor will be a bit different but still delicious.
How spicy is this dish?
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe is mild and comforting, with no noticeable heat or spices that overwhelm. If you like, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
What can I do with the leftover sauce?
The sauce is fantastic over pasta, steamed veggies, or even as a dip for crusty bread. Don’t let any of that creamy goodness go to waste!
Final Thoughts
I can say without hesitation that this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe is a decade-long favorite that never gets old. It’s straightforward enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to impress family and guests. The combination of tender chicken and velvety, flavorful sauce is comforting and satisfying on every level. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your go-to recipes quickly!
Print
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a delicious and comforting dish featuring tender seared chicken breasts simmered in a rich and flavorful creamy sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach. This easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner and pairs beautifully with pasta or your favorite side dishes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 Tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 3 Tablespoons butter
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- ½ cup onions, diced
- ½ cup sun dried tomatoes, sliced or diced
- 3 garlic cloves, pressed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1 ½ cups fresh baby spinach, loosely packed
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Generously season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to infuse flavor throughout the meat.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add butter. Once melted and coating the pan, sear the chicken breasts until golden brown, about 3 minutes on each side. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Remove Chicken: Take the chicken out of the pan and place it on a plate, keeping it warm while you prepare the sauce.
- Sauté Onions: Lower the heat to medium and add olive oil to the skillet. Add the diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Sun-dried Tomatoes and Garlic: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and pressed garlic, cooking just until fragrant, approximately 30 seconds.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Heat the mixture, then add the parmesan cheese and stir until it melts completely. Once melted, add the fresh spinach and stir until wilted.
- Simmer Chicken in Sauce: Return the chicken breasts to the pan, spooning some sauce over them. Simmer for 5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Serve the creamy Tuscan chicken with extra pan sauce drizzled over the top. This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta or your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- If you prefer, substitute fresh garlic with 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
- Use full-fat heavy whipping cream for the creamiest texture.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F to avoid undercooking.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil can be used for extra flavor, but reduce added olive oil accordingly.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
