Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe

Who else absolutely loves a dinner dish that makes you feel like a total kitchen superstar with minimal effort? Let me introduce you to my go-to creamy Tuscan chicken, where tender chicken and a rich, savory sauce come together in a way that will have everyone asking for seconds!

I love making meals that are both comforting and bursting with flavor, and my Creamy Tuscan Chicken is no exception. Here, tender chicken breasts are well-seasoned, then coupled with fragrant garlic, rich sun-dried tomatoes, and nutrient-packed spinach.

But the real showstopper is the divine sauce, made with none other than heavy cream and good ol’ Parmesan. Hearty doesn’t even begin to cover this dish, which is perfect for impressing guests and equally great for enjoying on a cozy night in.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts: High in protein, low in fat, and essential for muscle repair.
• Olive Oil: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, promotes heart health.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic flavor; contains antioxidants and may boost immunity.
• Parmesan Cheese: Provides a savory, umami taste; source of calcium and protein.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Adds tangy flavor, rich in vitamins C and K.
• Spinach Leaves: High in iron, vitamins A and C; supports eye and bone health.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a rich, creamy texture; adds indulgence to the dish.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (optional)
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe

1. Both sides of the chicken breasts should be seasoned with salt and pepper.

2. A big frying pan is well suited for this preparation. Put it on the stove over medium-high heat, and into it, pour the olive oil.

3. Put the chicken breasts in the skillet and heat for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Take the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

4. In the same frying pan, add the chopped garlic and sauté for about a minute until you can smell it, being careful not to let it burn.

5. Add the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Reduce heat to medium.

6. Blend in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.

7. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach leaves to the skillet, stirring until the spinach is wilted.

8. Put the chicken breasts back into the skillet, and ladle the creamy sauce over the top.

9. Allow the sauce to simmer with the chicken for an additional 5 minutes. This step helps the chicken absorb the flavors.

10. If you wish, you can sprinkle some freshly chopped basil and a few red pepper flakes on top before you dish it out. In any case, enjoy the hell out of your creamy Tuscan chicken!

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Frying pan (large)
2. Stove
3. Tongs (for turning chicken)
4. Knife (for chopping garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil)
5. Cutting board
6. Measuring spoons
7. Measuring cups
8. Spoon or spatula (for stirring)
9. Ladle (optional, for serving sauce)
10. Serving platter or plates

FAQ

• Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?A: Yes, you may use chicken thighs. They are moister and will impart a slightly different texture and flavor to the dish.
• Q: Are there substitutes for heavy cream to make the dish lighter?A: You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt as lighter alternatives, though the sauce may be less creamy.
• Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?A: This dish is at its best when served immediately after its preparation and can be held in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. It is best reheated gently to not overcook the chicken.
• Q: What can I serve with Creamy Tuscan Chicken?A: This dish goes well with spaghetti, capellini, or simple green salads to finish off your meal.
• Q: How can I adjust the level of spice in the dish?A. For extra heat, you can add more red pepper flakes, or for a milder version, you can leave them out.
• Q: Can I add mushrooms to this recipe?A: Certainly, adding sautéed mushrooms enhances the flavor and adds a nice earthy dimension to the dish.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Breast of chicken: Substitute boneless thighs, skinless, for a juicier alternative.
Use coconut milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Cheese, Parmesan: Substitute Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for a totally different flavor.
Tomatoes dried in the sun: Use fresh cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers as a substitute.

Pro Tips

1. Tenderize the Chicken Gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking. This ensures they cook evenly and remain juicy.

2. Use Sun-Dried Tomato Oil Instead of just olive oil, use some of the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor when initially cooking the chicken.

3. Deglaze the Pan When adding the chicken broth, make sure to scrape the skillet well to incorporate any flavorful bits left from cooking the chicken.

4. Simmer for Flavor Let the chicken simmer longer in the sauce if you have time. This allows the chicken to soak up more of the creamy, rich flavors.

5. Fresh Basil and Red Pepper Just before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning. The fresh basil and the optional red pepper flakes can be added at the last moment for a fresh and spicy kick.