This Easy Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes in a rich and creamy sauce. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
Cooking this dish makes me feel like a chef in Italy, even if I’m just in my kitchen! Serve it with pasta or rice to soak up all that tasty sauce—you won’t regret it!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are juicy and cook quickly. If you prefer, you can use thighs for extra flavor or even turkey breasts to keep it lean.
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a tangy flavor. In a pinch, use fresh tomatoes, just sauté them a bit longer to soften, or opt for roasted red peppers.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is a must for that cheesy flavor. You can swap it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. Nutritional yeast works for a dairy-free alternative.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best, but frozen spinach can work too. Just be sure to thaw and drain it first, so the dish doesn’t get watery!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking chicken to perfection can be tricky, but here’s how to do it:
- Start with seasoned chicken for better flavor. Salt and pepper are key!
- Heat your pan well and give the chicken enough space so it browns nicely. Don’t overcrowd the skillet.
- Cook until the chicken is golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep it juicy when you slice it.
Enjoy making this dish and savor every bite!
Easy Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to season
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. In just a short time, you’ll have a creamy and delicious meal ready to impress your family or guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This helps to enhance the flavor right from the start!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken breasts to the pan. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and completely cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and the onion is translucent. This step is key for building delicious flavor!
4. Adding the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the skillet and cook for an additional minute, allowing them to mingle with the garlic and onion.
5. Making the Creamy Sauce:
Now it’s time to pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in the Italian seasoning and bring everything to a gentle simmer. This will create that luscious, creamy sauce.
6. Incorporating the Cheese:
Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir it in until it thickens slightly. The cheese melts down beautifully, adding richness to the sauce.
7. Adding the Spinach:
Now, stir in the fresh spinach and cook until it’s wilted and tender—a good sign that the dish is coming together!
8. Bringing It All Together:
Return the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet, spooning some of that delicious sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes. This allows the chicken to soak up the flavors of the sauce.
9. Finishing Touches:
Finally, garnish your creamy Tuscan garlic chicken with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color before serving.
Serve this dish over pasta, rice, or with some crusty bread to soak up all that tasty sauce. Enjoy this creamy Italian delight with your loved ones!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is in the refrigerator overnight or using the quick method of submerging the sealed chicken in cold water. Pat the chicken dry once thawed to help it brown nicely in the skillet!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch for thickness. For a dairy-free alternative, you can use coconut cream or a cashew cream for a creamy consistency.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken a day in advance. Just keep everything in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently in the skillet, adding a splash of cream or broth to help loosen the sauce if needed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy Tuscan garlic chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy.
