When it comes to quick yet indulgent meals, this Creamy Tuscan Chicken fits the bill perfectly. Seared, seasoned chicken in a rich, velvety sauce with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes turns ordinary weeknight dinners into something special. Plus, it’s all done in one skillet, meaning minimal cleanup!
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- Cuisine: Italian
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy for busy weeknights.
- Uses one pan, cutting down on dishes.
- Loaded with nutritious spinach and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes.
- Rich and creamy sauce elevates humble chicken to a new level.
Ingredients
- 4 (6-ounce) boneless skinless chicken breasts: Provides the meaty base; its mild flavor absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Offers a blend of classic Italian herbs; substitute with ¼ teaspoon each of oregano, thyme, basil, and rosemary.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste if needed.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds mild heat and aroma.
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: For searing the chicken and sautéing the vegetables; adds richness.
- 4 garlic cloves (minced): Delivers a robust savory depth.
- ¼ cup finely chopped yellow onion: Provides a sweet base flavor when sautéed.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (thinly sliced): Adds tangy sweetness; can substitute with fresh cherry tomatoes for a milder taste.
- 2 cups baby spinach: Offers a nutritious, leafy touch that wilts into the sauce.
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream: Creates the creamy texture; substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan: Infuses the sauce with umami and richness; use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How to Make It
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry, then generously season both sides with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This step ensures flavorful chicken throughout the dish.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts, searing each side for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown. This locks in the juices. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
Pour the remaining tablespoon of oil into the same skillet. Add the chopped onions, cooking them for about 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and become translucent, which intensifies their sweetness.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Garlic
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic, sautéing for another minute until the garlic is fragrant. This step builds a robustly flavored base for the sauce.
Step 5: Wilt the Spinach
Add the spinach to the skillet, cooking just until it starts to wilt. This happens quickly and ensures the spinach stays vibrant and fresh-tasting.
Step 6: Create the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and add the parmesan. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer, creating a luscious sauce that will coat every bite.
Step 7: Simmer with the Chicken
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Let it simmer for around 5 minutes until the chicken is heated through and perfectly tender.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well, offering a richer flavor. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some freshly chopped chili peppers when sautéing the garlic for a bit of heat.
