Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe – Easy & Delicious

Name: Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Recipe By:

GCT-ADM

Posted:

February 13, 2025

Updated:

February 13, 2025

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Have you ever craved a dish that envelops your senses in warmth and flavor? Picture this: tender chicken simmered in a velvety sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and aromatic garlic. That’s exactly what Creamy Tuscan Chicken brings to your table—a delightful experience that is both comforting and luxurious.

This dish is perfect for weekday dinners or special occasions when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. The combination of creamy textures with vibrant herbs creates an unforgettable flavor profile. Whether served over pasta or alongside crusty bread for dipping, Creamy Tuscan Chicken promises to be a favorite in your household. Get ready to savor every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need something delicious without lengthy prep.
Rich Flavor Profile: The blend of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this dish over pasta, rice, or simply paired with crusty bread—it’s adaptable to fit your meal preferences.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Approximately 3-4 pieces are needed; ensure they are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
Fresh Spinach: Use about two cups of fresh spinach; it wilts down quickly and adds color and nutrients.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for added richness; chop them finely before adding to the sauce.
Heavy Cream: About one cup will create the luscious base of your sauce; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances the flavor; you’ll need around three cloves minced finely.

For the Sauce:

Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over the salt level; about one cup should suffice.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove from skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add another tablespoon of oil if necessary. Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes; sauté until fragrant (about one minute).

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly (about three minutes).

Step 5: Add Spinach

Stir in fresh spinach into the sauce until wilted. Return cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, allowing them to soak up some sauce (about two minutes).

Step 6: Serve Warm

Transfer everything onto plates and drizzle generously with sauce for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy!

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opting for fresh garlic and spinach will significantly enhance flavor compared to dried alternatives.
Adjust Seasoning as Needed: Taste your sauce before serving; feel free to add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
Pair with Complementary Sides: Serve this dish with garlic bread or a light salad to balance out its richness.

Mistakes to avoid

Overcooking the Chicken: One of the most common mistakes when preparing Creamy Tuscan Chicken is overcooking the chicken. When you cook chicken for too long, it becomes dry and tough. To ensure juicy and tender chicken, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy and remove the chicken from heat just before it reaches this temperature. This technique not only preserves moisture but also enhances the overall flavor of your dish.
Skipping the Seasoning: Failing to season your ingredients can lead to a bland sauce in Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Always season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking. Additionally, don’t forget to season the sauce as you prepare it. Fresh herbs, garlic, and Italian seasoning play a crucial role in building flavor. Taste as you go, adjusting seasoning to make sure every bite is bursting with flavor.
Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the taste of Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Avoid using low-quality chicken or canned tomatoes, as these can compromise the dish’s richness. Opt for fresh spinach, premium olive oil, and high-quality parmesan cheese instead. Investing in good ingredients ensures that your dish will be creamy, flavorful, and satisfying.

Ingredients

To make a delicious Creamy Tuscan Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1cup heavy cream

– cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

– cup fresh spinach, chopped

– teaspoon Italian seasoning

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Creamy Tuscan Chicken:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Allow the mixture to thicken slightly for about 3-5 minutes.

5. Add chopped spinach and stir until wilted.

6. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, ensuring they are coated with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.

7. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Pasta: Serve over fettuccine or penne for a hearty meal.
Rice: White or brown rice absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly.
Bread: A crusty baguette complements the dish by soaking up every drop of sauce.

FAQs

What can I substitute for heavy cream in Creamy Tuscan Chicken?

If you want a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or a mixture of milk with cornstarch as a thickener. Coconut milk can also provide a dairy-free alternative while maintaining creaminess. However, keep in mind that these substitutes may alter the flavor slightly compared to traditional heavy cream.

Can I make Creamy Tuscan Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish ahead of time by cooking the chicken and sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on a stovetop until warm and serve.

How do I store leftover Creamy Tuscan Chicken?

To store leftovers properly, allow them to cool completely before transferring them into an airtight container. They will last in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in a suitable container for up to two months.

Can I add vegetables to my Creamy Tuscan Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini along with spinach. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add extra nutrients to your dish.

Conclusion for Creamy Tuscan Chicken

In summary, Creamy Tuscan Chicken is an exquisite dish that combines tender chicken breasts with rich flavors from sun-dried tomatoes and spinach enveloped in creamy goodness. The recipe is straightforward and perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. With easy-to-find ingredients and quick preparation steps, you can create an impressive meal that will delight your family and friends. Pair it with pasta or rice, and enjoy this comforting dish any time of year!