If you’re looking for a rich, creamy, and comforting meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes, then this Creamy Tuscan Chicken is for you! With juicy pan-seared chicken, a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes, this dish tastes like something straight out of an Italian restaurant.
The best part? It’s super easy to make and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even a low-carb side like sautéed spinach or cauliflower rice. Let’s dive into this flavor-packed recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
✔ Rich & Creamy – The garlic Parmesan sauce is smooth, indulgent, and packed with flavor.
✔ One-Pan Meal – Less cleanup, more time to enjoy your meal!
✔ Versatile – Serve it with pasta, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half lengthwise (to make 4 cutlets)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the Creamy Tuscan Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup (120ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season & Sear the Chicken
- Prepare the chicken – Slice the chicken breasts in half to create four thinner pieces. This helps them cook evenly.
- Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (165°F / 75°C internal temperature).
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Tuscan Sauce
- In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (this adds extra flavor!).
- Lower the heat to medium and add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes and baby spinach, stirring until the spinach wilts.
Step 3: Combine & Serve
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Let it simmer for 2 more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
🍝 With Pasta – Serve over fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne for a creamy Italian dish.
🥔 With Mashed Potatoes – The sauce pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes.
🍚 With Rice – A side of jasmine or brown rice makes this a filling meal.
🥦 With Roasted Veggies – Pair with roasted asparagus or zucchini for a low-carb option.
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Tuscan Chicken
✅ Use Thin Chicken Cutlets – This ensures even cooking and a tender texture.
✅ Let the Sauce Simmer – Allowing the sauce to thicken slightly before adding the chicken enhances the flavor.
✅ Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Overcooking can make it dry; use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C).
✅ Adjust the Spice – If you love heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Common Questions About This Recipe
Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: Heavy cream gives the sauce its richness, but you can substitute half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a bit of cornstarch for a lighter version.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! Cook the chicken and sauce separately, then store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
A: Yes, but sun-dried tomatoes add a deep, tangy flavor that fresh tomatoes lack. If using fresh, sauté them for a few minutes before adding to the sauce.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken is the perfect balance of rich, garlicky, and savory flavors, all in one easy dish. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, it’s guaranteed to impress!
Try this recipe tonight and bring the flavors of Italy to your kitchen. 🍽✨
