Save This one-pot creamy Tuscan chicken has revolutionized my weeknight dinner routine, combining Italian-inspired flavors with the convenience of minimal cleanup. The rich sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach transforms simple chicken breasts into a restaurant-worthy meal that's ready in just 35 minutes.
I first created this recipe when hosting impromptu dinner guests on a busy weeknight. Everyone was so impressed that it's now my go-to dish whenever I need something that looks and tastes impressive without hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: provide the perfect protein base and cook quickly while remaining tender when not overcooked
- Italian seasoning blend: saves time while delivering authentic Tuscan flavors in one convenient sprinkle
- Sun-dried tomatoes: add intense sweet-tart flavor and beautiful color contrast look for oil-packed varieties for the richest taste
- Heavy cream: creates that luxurious restaurant-quality sauce that clings perfectly to the chicken
- Fresh baby spinach: wilts beautifully into the sauce adding nutrition and a pop of vibrant green
- Parmesan cheese: brings umami depth and helps thicken the sauce select a block and grate it yourself for the best melting quality
Instructions
- Season the Chicken:
- Pat chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning. Season generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, pressing the seasonings into the meat to adhere. This step builds the foundation of flavor for the entire dish.
- Sear to Perfection:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. Add chicken breasts without overcrowding the pan, working in batches if needed. Cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook another 5-6 minutes. The chicken should have a beautiful caramelized crust. Remove to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm while retaining moisture.
- Create the Flavor Base:
- Add butter to the same pan with all those delicious browned bits from the chicken. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for exactly 60 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant but not browned. This brief cooking releases the aromatic compounds in the garlic without burning it, which would create bitterness.
- Develop the Sauce:
- Pour chicken broth into the pan and use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom. This deglazing step incorporates those concentrated flavors into your sauce. Add heavy cream and Parmesan, whisking gently until the cheese melts completely into the sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
- Incorporate the Vegetables:
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach to the simmering sauce. Stir gently as the spinach wilts down, which happens quickly in about 2-3 minutes. The spinach will reduce dramatically in volume while the tomatoes infuse the sauce with their concentrated flavor.
- Reunite and Finish:
- Return the seared chicken breasts to the pan, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Spoon sauce over the tops of the chicken and allow everything to simmer together for 4-5 minutes. This final cooking ensures the chicken is cooked through while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Save My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the moment the spinach hits the hot cream sauce and begins to wilt. The vibrant green color against the golden sauce creates such a beautiful contrast that makes the dish look as good as it tastes. My husband always comments that this dish makes our kitchen smell like his favorite Italian restaurant.
Perfect Pairings
While this creamy Tuscan chicken is delicious on its own, it truly shines when served over a starch that can soak up the incredible sauce. My family loves it over al dente fettuccine pasta, but it works equally well with fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes. For a lower-carb option, try serving it with roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
Smart Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully flexible to accommodate what you have on hand or dietary preferences. Chicken thighs work beautifully in place of breasts, offering even more flavor and tenderness. Half-and-half can replace heavy cream for a lighter version, though the sauce won't be quite as thick. No sun-dried tomatoes? Try roasted red peppers for a similar sweet-savory profile. Kale can substitute for spinach if you prefer a heartier green that holds more texture.
Make-Ahead Magic
This dish actually improves with time as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it up to two days ahead and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. The make-ahead option makes this perfect for meal prep or entertaining when you want to minimize last-minute cooking.
Flavor Variations
While the classic Tuscan version is hard to beat, this recipe serves as an excellent base for creative variations. Add sliced mushrooms when sautéing the garlic for an earthy dimension. Stir in a tablespoon of pesto just before serving for an herbaceous twist. Include artichoke hearts along with the sun-dried tomatoes for Mediterranean flair. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a gentle heat that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Save This Tuscan chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it a perfect weeknight staple for busy families or impressive enough for guests, all while keeping your cleanup to a minimum.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → What cut of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts offer a tender texture and cook quickly in the sauce, though thighs may also be used for richer flavor.
- → Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
You can substitute fresh tomatoes, but sun-dried tomatoes provide a concentrated, tangy flavor that elevates the sauce.
- → Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives, but note the taste and texture will change.
- → What side dishes pair well?
Serve with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for soaking up the creamy sauce. Simple green salads work well, too.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the chicken.
- → Can I add other vegetables?
Mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers can be added to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutritional profile.