Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Enjoy a delicious Italian-inspired dinner featuring tender chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection and simmered in a rich, creamy sauce loaded with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. This comforting dish balances bold flavors and creamy textures, making it a perfect meal for any night of the week.
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet or sauté pan
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Plate (to rest cooked chicken)
- Silicone spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 teaspoon Italian herb blend or mix oregano, thyme, basil, and rosemary
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic finely minced
- ¼ cup yellow onion finely chopped
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes thinly sliced
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream or substitute with dairy-free alternative if desired
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Begin by seasoning each chicken breast evenly with the Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper to infuse the meat with fragrant herbs and balanced seasoning.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear each side for approximately 3 to 4 minutes, until a golden-brown crust forms. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate to rest.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onions and sauté them for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and turn translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced sun-dried tomatoes to the pan and cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and the tomatoes to slightly rehydrate.
- Stir in the baby spinach and cook for about one minute, just until it begins to wilt and blend with the other ingredients.
- Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese. Stir the mixture thoroughly and bring it to a gentle simmer, letting the sauce thicken and the cheese melt completely.
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Let everything cook together for about 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated through and infused with the sauce’s rich flavors.
Notes
This dish shines with quality sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, so choose fresh, vibrant ingredients for the best flavor.
Using a dairy-free cream substitute keeps it accessible for those with dietary restrictions without losing creaminess.
Adjust the chicken thickness to ensure even cooking and a juicy finish every time,
