Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe

This creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe brings Italian flavor right to your table with tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich Parmesan garlic cream sauce. A one-pan dinner that's easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights!

With juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a velvety parmesan sauce, this recipe delivers comforting flavors in every bite. Serve it over your favorite pasta or rice for a satisfying meal the whole family will love!

Craving more sun-drenched flavor? Try these other Tuscan-inspired favorites like Tuscan Sausage Pasta and Creamy Tuscan Ravioli. 

Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and slice them in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets for quicker, even cooking. You can use chicken thighs, just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
• Seasonings: We use a blend of Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper to add warmth, herby depth, and a touch of color to the chicken and sauce. Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creates a silky, indulgent sauce. For best results, use full-fat heavy cream and let it come to room temperature before adding it to the pan.
• Chicken Broth: Helps thin the sauce slightly while adding savory depth. Use low-sodium broth so you can better control the salt level in the dish.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings bold flavor to the sauce. You can use pre-minced garlic from a jar, but fresh gives the best taste.
• Parmesan Cheese: Choose freshly grated parmesan for the smoothest melting and best flavor.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Packed with tangy, concentrated tomato flavor. Use oil-packed for added richness, and chop them for even distribution in the sauce.
• Baby Spinach: Adds color, nutrients, and a slight earthy flavor. Chop and stir in at the end to preserve its bright color and freshness.

See the recipe card below for exact ingredient amounts, nutritional information, and detailed instructions.

Variations

• Make it Vegetarian: Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas.
• Switch the Protein: Try boneless chicken thighs for a juicier cut, or go with shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Lighten It Up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the cheese slightly for a lighter dish.
• Make it Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to give the sauce a subtle kick.
• Go Gluten-Free: Serve this creamy Tuscan chicken over gluten-free pasta, rice, or mashed cauliflower for a satisfying gluten-friendly meal.

How to Make This Tuscan Chicken Recipe 

This creamy Tuscan chicken recipe comes together quickly in one pan, making it ideal for busy nights. Before you start, slice the chicken and have your ingredients prepped and ready to go.

1. Step 1: Prep the Chicken. Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create thinner fillets. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.

2. Step 2: Sear the Chicken. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side until golden and cooked through, then transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.

3. Step 3: Make the Sauce. Lower the heat and add the cream, chicken broth, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Stir constantly until it starts to bubble, then slowly whisk in the parmesan until melted and smooth.

4. Step 4: Finish and Serve. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach until the spinach wilts. Return the chicken to the pan and coat it in the creamy sauce. Serve over pasta, rice, or your favorite side.

Serving Suggestions

This Tuscan chicken recipe with sun-dried tomatoes is versatile enough for a family weeknight meal or a dinner party spread.

• Pair it with crusty bread cooked in a Dutch oven or garlic knots to soak up the rich, cheesy sauce.
• When entertaining guests, this dish makes a flavorful and crowd-pleasing centerpiece. Serve it with garlic butter pasta, strawberry and pecan salad, roasted potatoes and carrots, and finish it off with a sweet treat like our lemon cheesecake bars.

Storage Directions 

• Storing: Once cooled, store the Tuscan chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The sauce may thicken slightly, but it will still be delicious when reheated. For freezing, store the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to use.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.