Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken Recipe
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a rich, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a luxurious, garlicky cream sauce. Infused with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese, this Italian-inspired recipe is as comforting as it is delicious. The creamy sauce is balanced by the tang of the tomatoes and the earthiness of the spinach, making it the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether paired with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, this dish is sure to impress.
Equipment
- 1 large skillet (12-inch recommended)
- 1 cutting board
- 1 sharp knife
- 1 spoon or spatula for stirring
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 measuring spoon
- 1 small bowl (for mixing spices, if needed)
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped, packed in oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or stock
- 1 cup fresh spinach roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning optional, or use fresh herbs like thyme or basil
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you prefer. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Sauté the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
- In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if necessary. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing them to soften and infuse the oil.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once bubbling, reduce the heat and add in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.
Add the Spinach:
- Add the spinach and stir gently until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Italian seasoning as needed.
Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
Serve:
- Serve the creamy Tuscan garlic chicken immediately, paired with your favorite sides such as pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Substitute Options: You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result. For a lighter version, you can swap the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free option like coconut cream.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or cream to loosen it. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce.
- Extra Flavor: For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes or chili powder. You can also garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.