Creamy Tuscan Chicken With Spinach

Name: Creamy Tuscan Chicken With Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 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 sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Highlighted under: Warm Meal Inspirations

I absolutely love making Creamy Tuscan Chicken With Spinach on busy weeknights! With its luscious sauce and flavorful ingredients, this dish never fails to impress. The blend of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach creates a mouthwatering experience that transports me to an Italian trattoria. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect fit for my fast-paced schedule. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delightful sauce, and you have a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:06:36.413Z

Cooking Creamy Tuscan Chicken With Spinach has become a weekly ritual for me. I love experimenting with the flavors, and each time I make it, I find new ways to enhance the dish. Recently, I decided to add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a gentle kick. It turned out to be a delightful addition, balancing the creaminess and adding a surprising layer of depth.

The method I use really emphasizes building flavor from the base. Starting with sautéing garlic and onions is key, as it unlocks aromatic notes that infuse the whole dish. I find that using fresh spinach rather than frozen gives a vibrant color and a fresher taste that elevates everything on the plate!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that envelops the chicken.
A perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors from sun-dried tomatoes.
Quick to make, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.

Perfecting the Chicken

When preparing the chicken, it's essential to ensure an even thickness for consistent cooking. If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider pounding them to about half an inch before seasoning. This not only aids in even cooking but also helps the chicken remain moist. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). At the right heat, your chicken should develop a golden brown sear, which creates a delightful depth of flavor in the overall dish.

Using the right size skillet is important too—if it’s overcrowded, the chicken will steam rather than sear. A large skillet allows for proper air circulation, ensuring the chicken develops a nice crust. If you find the chicken sticking to the pan, it’s likely not ready to be flipped yet; wait until it naturally releases for perfect browning.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

The lavish cream sauce is what truly elevates this dish. While simmering the heavy cream, keep an eye on the heat; too high and it may curdle, resulting in an undesirable texture. You’re aiming for a gentle simmer, where small bubbles form around the edges of the skillet. This helps the sauce thicken beautifully while maintaining its creamy consistency. Stirring frequently will create a smoother sauce and integrate all ingredients harmoniously.

Sun-dried tomatoes provide a concentrated burst of flavor, and I recommend using the packed variety in oil for an extra richness. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half the heavy cream with chicken broth or a plant-based cream for a lower caloric impact without sacrificing too much creaminess. Stirring in freshly squeezed lemon juice at the end can also enhance the sauce with a bright, zesty finish.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing this dish with a side is crucial to experiencing its full flavor potential. While pasta is a classic option, consider using zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist or quinoa for added protein. Warm crusty bread is ideal for sopping up the creamy sauce, and a side salad can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. Dressing it with a light vinaigrette can balance the meal perfectly.

For leftovers, store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating in a skillet over low heat preserves the creamy texture, and adding a splash of broth can help reinvigorate the sauce if it thickens too much. This dish also freezes well; just ensure it cools completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers for up to three months, making it a fantastic meal prep option.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for this delicious dish:

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Make sure to have all the ingredients prepped and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy Tuscan chicken:

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and add the chicken. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese, mixing well until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it with the sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your creamy Tuscan chicken with pasta or a side of crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce before simmering. It enhances the taste and adds a lovely aroma.

Variations and Substitutions

For a twist on the classic Tuscan flavor, consider adding artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers to the sauce. These ingredients will enhance the dish's Mediterranean essence and provide additional textures. If you’re seeking a lighter version, try substituting the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream alternative for a dairy-free option while still maintaining that creamy consistency.

You can also switch the protein used in this recipe. Try using shrimp or salmon instead of chicken; just adjust the cooking times accordingly since they cook much quicker than chicken breast. Alternatively, a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh can be marinated and sautéed for a hearty vegetarian option.

Key Techniques for Success

Utilizing the right cooking techniques is essential for achieving the best results. When sautéing garlic, be sure not to let it burn; it should become fragrant after just 1-2 minutes. Keeping a close watch will help you avoid a bitter flavor that can ruin the sauce. Additionally, adding the spinach toward the end of the sauce's cooking time allows it to wilt perfectly while retaining a vibrant green color and some texture.

Lastly, when combining the chicken with the sauce, a brief simmer can help the chicken absorb flavors without overcooking. Let it simmer just enough for the sauce to cling to the chicken beautifully, creating a luscious and cohesive dish that delights the palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or even shrimp for a different twist!

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or eggplant for a hearty vegetarian dish.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served freshly made, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.