Welcome to a truly special dish that brings gourmet flavors right to your kitchen: creamy Tuscan chicken. This beloved recipe is incredibly easy to make, yet it tastes like something straight out of a fine restaurant. Featuring tender chicken bathed in a rich, flavorful, creamy sauce studded with bright tomatoes and fresh spinach, it is destined to become a household favorite. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a sophisticated special occasion, this impressive Tuscan chicken delivers big flavors in under an hour.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tuscan Chicken
You are going to adore this skillet Tuscan chicken for so many reasons! It truly makes cooking enjoyable and stress-free.
- Quick and Easy Weeknight Solution: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Irresistible Rich, Creamy Sauce: The luxurious sauce is packed with flavor from garlic, Parmesan, and juicy tomatoes.
- Minimal Cleanup: Most of the cooking happens in a single skillet, which means less washing up afterward.
- Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
- Impressive Taste: Achieve restaurant-quality results with simple, approachable steps.
Ingredients
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delectable Tuscan chicken dinner. Each component plays a vital role in building the dish’s incredible flavor profile. We start with lean chicken breasts, seared to perfection, then create a rich sauce with aromatic garlic, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, spinach offers several health benefits. Learn more about the health benefits of fresh spinach. Heavy cream and Parmesan cheese bring it all together in a velvety finish. A touch of lemon brightens the entire meal.
- 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 3 tbsp. unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 c. cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 c. baby spinach
- 1/2 c. heavy cream
- 1/4 c. freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Notes & Substitutions:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and stay incredibly moist.
- Herbs: Feel free to use fresh oregano or a blend of Italian seasoning for a different twist.
- Butter: Unsalted butter adds a wonderful depth to the sauce, enhancing its richness.
- Garlic: Always use fresh garlic for the most vibrant and aromatic flavor.
- Tomatoes/Spinach: Sun-dried tomatoes can be used alongside or in place of cherry tomatoes. Hearty kale is also a great swap for spinach.
- Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts smoothly and provides the best texture and flavor.
- Cream: For a slightly lighter sauce, half-and-half can be used in place of heavy cream.
- Lemon: Don’t skip the lemon! It is essential for balancing the richness of the creamy sauce.
Equipment
Having the right tools makes cooking this Tuscan chicken a breeze. These essential items will help you achieve perfect results with confidence.
- Large cast-iron or oven-safe skillet (10-12 inch)
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Instant-read meat thermometer
How To Make Tuscan Chicken
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your delicious creamy Tuscan chicken. This method ensures tender chicken and a perfectly balanced sauce every time. Remember to read through all steps before you begin for the smoothest cooking experience.
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the boneless, skinless chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps create a beautiful sear. Season both sides generously with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried oregano.
- Sear Chicken: Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in your large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the hot skillet. Cook the chicken until it is beautifully golden brown on both sides and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast registers 165°F. This usually takes about 8 minutes per side.
- Check Doneness: Always use your instant-read meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The USDA provides comprehensive guidelines for ensuring poultry is cooked safely. Consult USDA guidelines for safe minimum internal temperature for chicken. This guarantees your chicken is cooked safely and remains juicy.
- Rest Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a plate. Cover the plate loosely with foil to allow the chicken to rest. Resting helps redistribute the juices, keeping your chicken tender and moist for this Tuscan chicken dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly if needed and melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic cloves to the melted butter and stir constantly for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet with the fragrant garlic. Season the tomatoes lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the tomatoes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and burst, releasing their sweet juices. Next, add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring, until the spinach wilts down, about 2-3 minutes.
- Make Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan as you stir. These bits add incredible flavor to your sauce. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it is fully incorporated and begins to melt.
- Simmer Sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 3 minutes. This simmering time allows the sauce to thicken slightly and for all the flavors to meld beautifully. The creamy Tuscan chicken sauce is almost ready!
- Finish Dish: Return the rested chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the rich, creamy sauce. Cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Spoon some of the delicious sauce over the chicken as it reheats.
- Serve: Transfer the creamy Tuscan chicken to serving plates. Garnish generously with fresh lemon wedges. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness of the sauce.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
These expert tips and troubleshooting advice will help you master this delicious Tuscan chicken recipe. Achieve perfect results every time with confidence.
- Prevent Dry Chicken: Always use an instant-read thermometer and remove chicken promptly at 165°F to ensure it stays juicy.
- Maximize Flavor: After searing the chicken, scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These “fond” bits are packed with flavor for the sauce.
- Thicken Sauce: If your sauce is too thin, simply simmer it a bit longer on low heat. For quicker thickening, whisk 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water, then stir the slurry into the simmering sauce.
- Batch Cook: If your skillet is too small for all the chicken breasts, sear them in batches. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of searing.
- Seasoning Adjustment: Always taste the sauce before returning the chicken to the skillet. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to perfect the flavor of your Tuscan chicken.
- Even Cooking: Pound chicken breasts to a uniform thickness, about 3/4 inch, before cooking. This ensures they cook evenly and prevents some parts from drying out.
- Brine Chicken: For extra tender and flavorful results, consider a quick brine. Soak chicken in a solution of 1 tablespoon salt per 1 cup water for 15-30 minutes, then pat dry.
Serving, Storage & Variations
This versatile Tuscan chicken is wonderful on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Learn how to store leftovers and explore exciting variations.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this delightful Tuscan chicken over a bed of al dente pasta, fluffy rice, or creamy mashed potatoes.
- Offer some crusty bread on the side; it is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the amazing creamy sauce.
- Complement the rich flavors with a simple fresh green salad or some roasted seasonal vegetables.
- Garnish your finished dish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for an added pop of color and freshness.
Storage Instructions:
- Store any leftover Tuscan chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- The sauce can be frozen separately for up to 3 months, making future meals even easier.
- Thaw frozen chicken and sauce overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating.
- Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed, or in the microwave.
Recipe Variations:
- Tuscan Chicken Pasta: After cooking, stir your favorite cooked pasta directly into the finished creamy sauce with the chicken for a complete meal.
- Slow-Cooker Tuscan Chicken: Adapt this recipe for the slow cooker using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for an incredibly tender result.
- Tuscan Butter Shrimp/Salmon: Substitute other proteins like shrimp or salmon for the chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly for a delicious seafood variation.
- Add More Veggies: Boost the vegetable content by including sun-dried tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, or quartered artichoke hearts to the sauce.
- Spicy Version: For a little kick, add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes along with the minced garlic.
Nutrition Information
Understanding the nutritional value of your meals can help you make informed dietary choices. Here is an approximate breakdown for one serving of this delicious Tuscan chicken.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 593 Calories |
| Fat Content | 33 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 16 g |
| Trans Fat Content | 0 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 269 mg |
| Sodium Content | 939 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 4 g |
| Fiber Content | 1 g |
| Sugar Content | 3 g |
| Protein Content | 66 g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. This information is provided for general guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about making this fantastic Tuscan chicken at home. We’ve got you covered!
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work perfectly and offer a richer flavor. Adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a little longer.
- What can I use instead of spinach? Kale or a mixed greens blend can be substituted for spinach if you prefer. Just be sure to cook them until they are tender.
- How do I make the sauce thicker? Simmer the sauce longer on low heat to reduce it, or whisk in a cornstarch slurry for quick thickening. This helps create a luscious Tuscan chicken sauce.
- Can I add sun-dried tomatoes? Absolutely, sun-dried tomatoes are a fantastic addition. They intensify the Tuscan flavor profile and add a lovely chewy texture.
- Is this recipe freezer-friendly? The chicken and sauce can be frozen separately for best results. This preserves the texture and quality of the dish.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy creating and savoring this simple, yet incredibly flavorful Tuscan chicken recipe. It is truly a versatile dish that fits seamlessly into any meal occasion, from busy weeknights to relaxed weekend dinners. With quick prep and utterly incredible creamy results, this recipe is designed to build your confidence in the kitchen. Try this delightful Tuscan chicken tonight and share your experience with us!
Creamy Tuscan Chicken: Your New Favorite Skillet Dinner
Equipment
- Skillet
- Instant-read thermometer
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 3 tbsp. butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 1/2 c. cherry tomatoes halved
- 3 c. baby spinach
- 1/2 c. heavy cream
- 1/4 c. freshly grated Parmesan
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Instructions
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat, then season chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook chicken for 8 minutes per side until browned and an instant-read thermometer reads 165°. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then stir in minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add halved cherry tomatoes, season, and cook until they begin to burst, then add baby spinach and cook until wilted.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 3 minutes until the sauce slightly reduces. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and heat through for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Serve the creamy Tuscan chicken immediately with fresh lemon wedges.