Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Name: Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Meal Recipes

I absolutely adore making Creamy Tuscan Chicken on busy weeknights. It’s a dish that never fails to impress not only with its rich flavors but also with how quickly it comes together. With oodles of creamy sauce, fresh herbs, and tender chicken, our taste buds are in for a treat! Plus, I love that it pairs beautifully with pasta or crusty bread, making it a versatile option for any meal. This recipe has become a family favorite that we look forward to every time I prepare it.

Created by

Luca

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:17:28.094Z

As a lover of Italian cuisine, I find that Creamy Tuscan Chicken is one of those dishes that transports me straight to a cozy trattoria. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and spinach in a luscious creamy sauce creates a flavor profile that is nothing short of divine. I remember the first time I made it for friends; they couldn’t believe it was homemade!

One of my favorite tricks is to let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a few extra minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully and ensures that the chicken is super juicy. Don’t skip the finishing touch of fresh basil—it elevates the dish to a whole new level!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that envelops juicy chicken
Vibrant flavors from sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs
Quick and easy to make for any weeknight dinner

Understanding the Ingredients

The beauty of Creamy Tuscan Chicken lies in its harmonious blend of ingredients. The sun-dried tomatoes provide a burst of concentrated flavor, balancing the richness of the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. When selecting sun-dried tomatoes, look for those packed in oil, as they tend to be more flavorful and easier to incorporate into the sauce. Additionally, fresh spinach not only adds color and texture but also brings a nutritional boost, making this dish feel a little more wholesome.

Heavy cream is crucial for achieving that velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, opt for half-and-half, but keep in mind that the sauce may not be as thick or rich. Always remember to keep the heat low once you add the cream to prevent it from curdling, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency.

Techniques for Success

Perfectly searing the chicken will elevate this dish, ensuring it remains juicy inside while developing golden, crispy edges on the outside. When you place the chicken in the skillet, allow it to cook without moving it for the first few minutes. This will help create a nice crust. If the chicken is sticking, it’s likely not ready to flip. Keep a close eye on it; once it easily releases from the pan, it’s ready to turn over.

To enhance the sauce's flavor, I always recommend sautéing the garlic just until fragrant. Avoid browning it, as burnt garlic can lend a bitter taste to the sauce. If you want to add a subtle kick to the dish, consider incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes when adding the sun-dried tomatoes, which will give your creamy sauce an unexpected layer of warmth.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer and allow to thicken slightly.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, then add the fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the spinach wilts and the sauce coats the chicken, about 3-5 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot, pairing it with pasta or bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs for about 30 minutes before cooking. This makes the dish even more delicious!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld over time, making the dish even more delicious when reheated. However, be mindful that the cream can thicken in the fridge, so when reheating, do so gently over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it can last for 1-2 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it slowly in a skillet over low heat. Always check for seasoning after reheating; you may want to add a bit more salt or fresh herbs to brighten it up again.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Tuscan Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. While pasta is a classic choice, serving it over zucchini noodles or a bed of sautéed vegetables is a wonderful way to keep it light. You might also consider offering a crusty piece of bread for dipping—think of it as a tool for soaking up every last drop of that luscious sauce.

For a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness, consider serving a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette. It'll balance the flavors of the dish and add a nice crunch. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding roasted cherry tomatoes or artichoke hearts as a dynamic topping before serving, which will add an extra layer of flavor and sophistication.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! This sauce works beautifully with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the chicken fresh when you’re ready to serve.

→ What should I serve with Creamy Tuscan Chicken?

It pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.