Food Recipes Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Name: Food Recipes Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 cups fresh spinach; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: International Food Favorites

I love making Creamy Tuscan Chicken because it brings the vibrant flavors of Italy right to my dinner table. The combination of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich creamy sauce creates a comforting and indulgent meal that's perfect for any occasion. It’s quick to prepare, and the aroma that fills my kitchen is simply irresistible! This dish is always a hit with family and friends, and I find myself reaching for it whenever I want to impress without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2026-02-27T18:02:34.862Z

When I first tried Creamy Tuscan Chicken at a small restaurant, I was so captivated by the blend of flavors that I had to recreate it at home! I started by sautéing the chicken until golden brown, ensuring it stayed juicy inside. One trick I discovered is to deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine—it adds a depth of flavor to the sauce that you can't achieve just with cream alone.

As I developed my version, I incorporated fresh spinach and garlic, which not only enhanced the aroma but also added beautiful color to the dish. For a finishing touch, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese elevates the creamy sauce, adding a savory richness that makes every bite delightful. Trust me, this dish will make any weeknight feel special!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that's bursting with Italian flavors
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
One-pan meal that minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor

Why Fresh Ingredients Matter

Using fresh spinach in this Creamy Tuscan Chicken not only enhances the dish's vibrant green color but also contributes essential nutrients and flavor. Fresh spinach wilts beautifully in the sauce, creating a delightful contrast with the creamy texture. If you can't find fresh spinach, feel free to use frozen; just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.

Sun-dried tomatoes are a crucial component here, providing a sweet-tart flavor that complements the richness of the cream. Look for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor, or if using dry-packed ones, consider rehydrating them in hot water for about 20 minutes before using. This little step can make a big difference in their texture and taste.

Cooking Techniques to Perfect Your Sauce

When preparing the sauce, it's important to sauté the garlic just until fragrant, about 1 minute. This prevents the garlic from burning, which can turn it bitter and overpowering. If you do accidentally burn it, you may need to start over to maintain the sauce's intended flavor profile. Instead, focus on achieving a subtle golden hue that promises rich flavor.

Bringing the sauce to a gentle simmer allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully. Keep the heat around medium to medium-low and stir occasionally. You want the sauce to reduce slightly, concentrating the flavors without boiling, which can curdle the cream. You'll know it's ready when the sauce has thickened just enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. If you’re looking for a hearty option, serve it over fettuccine or your favorite pasta, allowing the creamy sauce to cling to the noodles. Alternatively, for a lighter option, try it with steamed rice or quinoa, which will soak up the delicious sauce.

For a bit of extra flavor and texture, consider adding roasted red peppers or artichokes to the sauce. These ingredients infuse the dish with even more Italian flair. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added during the sauce preparation can bring a delightful kick to your meal.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth preparation process.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups fresh spinach
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Make sure to check your pantry for any additional spices or ingredients you might like to enhance the flavor!

Instructions

Preparation is key to getting this dish just right!

Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the sun-dried tomatoes, followed by the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

Add Spinach and Cheese

Once the sauce is simmering, add the fresh spinach and stir until wilted. Finally, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, allowing it to melt into the sauce.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, then serve hot. Enjoy this delightful dish with your choice of pasta or crusty bread!

Serve the Creamy Tuscan Chicken with a sprinkle of extra parmesan on top for added flavor!

Pro Tips

For additional flavor, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Pair this dish with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Creamy Tuscan Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When storing, try to keep the chicken and sauce together to maintain moisture. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating to restore its luscious texture.

To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a dash of liquid as needed to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. You can also use the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat, which can lead to tough chicken. Heat in small increments to achieve the best results.

Scaling Up the Recipe

This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings or meal prepping. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as you may need to do the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can cause steaming instead of searing. Aim for a golden-brown crust for maximum flavor and texture.

If you choose to make a larger batch, consider using a Dutch oven or a large deep skillet. This will allow you to incorporate all ingredients without compromising on the cooking process, ensuring every piece of chicken is enveloped by that creamy sauce. Just remember to monitor the heat to prevent burning or scorching the sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular milk instead of heavy cream?

While you can use regular milk, the sauce won't be as rich. For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of flour to thicken the sauce.

→ What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

Roasted red peppers can be a great substitute if you prefer a different flavor profile.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ What should I serve with Creamy Tuscan Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.